Spring is in the air and we can’t believe how quickly this school year is flying by! Before the year ends, we’ll be continuing our introductions of all of our incredible new staff. This month, learn all about our newest Occupational Therapist – Amy Propst!
1. Can you briefly tell us about your background?
I grew up in Coventry, RI, and received my undergraduate degree from Rhode Island College. My undergrad degree is actually a business degree in Healthcare Administration. During my senior year, I realized that a desk job was not for me and I needed something different. I ended up applying to the Johnson & Wales University Doctorate of Occupational Therapy Program in the Fall of 2020 and started classes in June 2021. I completed my doctoral research project on Intentional Collaboration and the Development of Fine Motor Skills Through Play, presenting my discoveries at a couple of conferences throughout 2024. I graduated in May 2024 and soon after began my journey at The Wolf School.
2. What inspired you to pursue a career as an OT?
When I received my degree in Healthcare Administration, I quickly realized that a desk job was not for me. I have always had a passion for being creative and working with children and wanted to find the right career path. At one point, I thought I wanted to be a teacher, but that wasn’t the right fit. When I was in high school, I had done my capstone project (a graduation requirement) on physical therapy, and while I enjoyed it, I also realized it was not the right job for me. Occupational Therapy was not introduced to me in a formal capacity. I actually discovered it through social media, following a family on social media whose daughter received services. It was at that moment that I realized this career path may be the one for me. After extensive research, realizing I could work in a school, and touring the doctoral program that I ended up attending, I fell in love!
3. What is your favorite part about working with Complex Learners?
My favorite part about working with Complex Learners is being able to be as creative as possible and practice my problem-solving skills on a daily basis. I love that every learner is unique. This gives me a different opportunity to try something new or learn something new every time I work with them. Occupational therapists have an extensive toolbox and it’s always fun to be able to dive into all aspects of it.
4. What do you think is the most misunderstood part about being an OT?
In general, the most misunderstood part about being an occupational therapist is that it is the same as a physical therapist. The best way I can describe the difference is that physical therapy helps remediate a certain part of your body and OTs help you apply it to valuable aspects (occupations) of your life.
5. What is your favorite season and why?
My favorite season is fall! This is my favorite season because I love the cool, crisp, air, as well as football, soccer, and my birthday!
Welcome, Amy! We’re so happy you’re here and so grateful for the skill, enthusiasm, and talent that you bring to Wolf! To learn more about other Wolf Staff, read some of our past We Are Wolf interviews!