Student spotlight: Occupational therapy student wins American Occupational Therapy Foundation scholarship

Second-year Doctor of Occupational Therapy student Vivian Nguyen has received the Charles Christiansen and Beth Jones Endowed Scholarship from the American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF). 

Nguyen’s accomplishment is especially noteworthy because she demonstrates thoughtful understanding of what it means to be a service-oriented, evidence-based practitioner even though she is early in her occupational therapy education, said Department of Occupational Therapy Assistant Professor Kathryn Crane, PhD, OTR.

“In reviewing her scholarship materials, I was especially impressed by the way she connected her coursework and early fieldwork experiences with broader themes of advocacy, representation and participation in meaningful occupations,” Crane said.

“Receiving an AOTF scholarship at this stage in her education is a wonderful recognition of both the work she has already done and the potential she brings to the profession.”

Learn more in the Q&A below about why Nguyen chose to become an occupational therapist and attend the OTD program at UT San Antonio School of Health Professions.  

Q: What is your ambition in occupational therapy?

A: My ambition in occupational therapy is to become an occupational therapist who uses evidence‑based practice to support people’s participation in meaningful occupations with cultural humility and compassion. I hope to contribute and grow in this profession through research, advocacy, leadership and collaborative care, especially in settings that promote accessibility and empower individuals in their everyday lives. 

Q: Why did you choose the OTD program at UT San Antonio?

A: I chose the OTD program at UT San Antonio because the program’s emphasis on research, hands-on learning and serving diverse populations stood out to me and aligns with my values and the kind of occupational therapist I aspire to become. The faculty here have also been incredible. Our professors are knowledgeable, supportive, passionate and genuinely invested in helping us become the best future occupational therapists. Being part of this program felt like the right place to grow. 

Q: What does receiving this scholarship mean to you?

A: I am incredibly grateful to receive this scholarship. As a Vietnamese American student in occupational therapy, I am committed to contributing to greater ethnic diversity within our profession and to bringing cultural humility into every space I serve. This support encourages me to continue developing strong evidence‑based habits, advocate for accessible care and represent communities that remain underrepresented in healthcare.