Perspectives Winter/Spring-2017

42 • NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY The American Occupational Therapy Association and the American Occupational Therapy Foundation developed the Summer Institute of Future Scientists in Occupational Therapy to serve three purposes. One intent is to identify potential scientists in entry-level education programs. The second is to have the opportu- nity to connect future scientists in an entry-level program with mentors in the field of occupational therapy, while the third is to develop a peer network. Class of 2017 student Bryce Carsone was selected from a national pool of occupational therapy students to join the first cohort of 20 scholars during the inaugural Summer Institute of Future Scientists in Occupational Therapy. The summer 2016 scholar- ship included a one-day institute and a two-day research summit, both of which were held in May 2016. As a recipient, Carsone and the other scholars had the opportunity to interact with scientists in the field of occupational therapy, receive exposure to current occupational therapy research, engage with mentors, and develop research networks. During the one-day institute, students were matched with research mentors and introduced to the following topics: research possibilities within occupational therapy science, methods and items to consider when evaluating potential doctoral programs, and career opportunities as a future scientist. Following comple- tion of the summer institute, the inaugural cohort of students attended a two-day research summit, where they talked with scientists in the field of occupational therapy, were exposed to current research in occupa- tional therapy, and engaged with their mentors to develop research networks. “The summer research institute was an incredible experience,” Carsone said. “I was honored to meet an inspiring group of peers who continue to motivate me to pursue my dreams. The institute provided me with detailed insight into what it takes to earn a Ph.D., and I feel confident in my future plans now more than ever. I cannot thank those involved enough for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” n Distinguished Student Earns Significant Honor Occupational Therapy TAMPA BY RICARDO C. CARRASCO, PH.D., OTR/L, FAOTA, CHAIR, DEPARTMENT OF THERAPY/ENTRY-LEVEL AND DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY PROGRAM, AND SHEILA M. LONGPRÉ, M.O.T., OTR/L, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AND DIRECTOR OF CLINICAL AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS