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Name: 

McKenzie Pflaum

Hometown (City, State):

Lakeville, Minnesota

Undergraduate degree: 

University of Kentucky, B.S., Human Health Sciences 

Current program(s) of study:

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (O.T.D.)

What inspired you to pursue a healthcare career?: 

I spent a lot of time while I was growing up working with aging adults in assisted living facilities and interacting with them through volunteer events in the community. Through those experiences, I was drawn to healthcare and have a passion for working with older adults in the areas of productive aging and stroke recovery.

How did your background and history factor into your career choice?:  

I am a first-generation college student. Neither of my parents received a four-year degree. I am also the first person in my family to pursue a healthcare degree. I feel like this has really motivated me to work hard in school and push myself to achieve my academic goals. I want to be a role model for my younger sister and show her that pursuing your academic and career goals is something you should never give up on. 

Why did you decide to attend ������Ƶ?:

I decided to attend ������Ƶ because of the interprofessional aspect, and that the University is solely for healthcare graduate students. I feel like that is something that makes ������Ƶ unique from other schools. I also really enjoyed how supportive the faculty are within the Occupational Therapy Program.

What about a ������Ƶ education do you want to carry forward in your career?: 

In my future practice, I want to carry forward the knowledge and experiences I’ve received through the ������Ƶ Occupational Therapy Program about providing evidence-based and client-centered care for all of my clients.

Anything else you'd like to add?:

I am so excited to continue pursuing my goal of becoming an occupational therapist with the help of the great faculty and support from ������Ƶ and the Occupational Therapy Program.