Reflection
ri-ˈflek-shən
Creating a space that collects your thoughts on belonging is an impactful intervention in processing the many feelings that offer a sense of relatedness and autonomy to feel secure. In turn, be more effective contributors to your academic environment.
On this page, use the prompts to guide you through some of the components of belonging by writing them down in a personal journal or the space below. For students who choose to reflect using the text entry, it will be anonymous and posted after consent and further review of the content.
Reflection Topics
Personal Recognition
Graduate school is similar to working full-time, with many ups and downs that affect your mood. Celebrate yourself whenever you complete a task or take a risk during the week. Writing a gratitude letter to yourself, or doing whatever brings you joy can allow you to feel purpose. Journal about something you recently accomplished in your graduate OT program. How did you react to it? Did it assist you in meeting your personal program objectives? Don't forget to celebrate both big and small victories.
Facing Microaggressions
Discrimination has many forms; some are more difficult to identify than others. Microaggressions are a subtle form of bias that is often overlooked or unacknowledged yet still impacts individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. As graduate OT students who may identify with this issue and represents these communities, it could benefit from reflecting on the microaggression that was encountered and respond respectfully; what strategies have you found work best for managing this situation?
Dealing with Isolation
Despite the camaraderie and support often found in graduate programs, sometimes it can feel like no one truly comprehends your experience. When this happens, it's easy to become overwhelmed by feelings of rejection that may lead you to isolation from classmates and faculty. Has this ever happened to you? If so, how did you manage to have resilience during this struggle? If you did not use any strategies during this time, why not?
When a goal is not attained
Everyone experiences moments of personal and professional challenge that can be discouraging in occupational therapy school. Despite the hurdles that may be encountered in our pursuit of goals, it is important to avoid giving in to negative thoughts and know that “this too shall pass.” By recognizing and confronting challenges with a positive outlook, you can use this as a learning opportunity instead of allowing it to detract from your feelings of self-worth as a student and future OT professional. Reflect on ways to acknowledge the challenge(s) and learn from the experience. Write down three ways you’d like your personal and program-related goals.