Lighting the Way Forward: A Conversation with Katarina Garibian, OTR/L, organizer of the OOTA Student Conclave and Reflection from the Breakout Room Hosts

Kelly Neal, OTD, OTR/L, BCPR, c/NDT, CBIS

When Katarina Garibian, OTR/L, began planning this year’s OOTA Student Conclave, she wasn’t just thinking as a clinician, she was thinking as a recent graduate. Having graduated from her OTD program in May 2025, she found herself reflecting on what she wished she had known as a student and what she has since learned in her first year of practice. The result was an event thoughtfully designed to bridge the gap between the classroom and the clinic—grounded in honesty, mentorship, and professional growth.

Creating the Event She Once Needed

Katarina’s inspiration was deeply personal.

“Internally, I asked myself, ‘What would I have wanted to know?’” she shared.

She recognizes how much growth occurs in that transition from student to professional. She wanted to share that new perspective with students while still honoring their lived experience.

A central theme quickly emerged: helping students set themselves up to be confident professionals. From niche topic areas to candid conversations about early-career realities, the conclave aimed to provide practical insight and reassurance. It wasn’t about having everything figured out, it was about knowing you don’t have to.

Moments of Pride and Connection

When asked about a moment that affirmed the purpose behind the event, Katarina didn’t hesitate; there were two that stood out to her.

Dr. Kelly Tanner encouraged attendees to turn on their cameras and share openly. She spoke authentically about her accomplishments while acknowledging that she doesn’t “have it all together.” The message resonated: there is often an unspoken expectation that professionals must always be polished and certain. But the truth is, growth continues long after graduation.

Katarina felt immense pride watching students witness that vulnerability. The presence of OOTA’s mentorship programs, supportive colleagues, and professional networks was highlighted as a reminder: it is okay not to know the answer. There are people ready to walk alongside you.

The second powerful moment unfolded during the graduate panel. When students asked what they could bring to be most prepared for practice, panelists leaned in—literally and figuratively. Facilitators engaged directly, clipboards in hand, fostering genuine back-and-forth dialogue. The energy in the room was palpable.

“It was a very cool feeling,” Katarina reflected.

Students weren’t just passive listeners; they were active participants shaping the conversation.

AI, Humanity, and the Heart of OT

Another standout conversation came during Dr. Van Lemmons’ presentation on artificial intelligence (AI). While acknowledging AI as a useful tool for both students and professionals, he reframed the discussion around the irreplaceable human experience.

“As OTPs, we are still better than AI,” Katarina emphasized.

Consumers value human connection, creativity, and innovation. Technology may assist us, but it cannot replicate the lived, relational, and deeply personal aspects of occupational therapy practice. The discussion raised hope and reaffirmed confidence in the profession’s future.

A Generation That Asks “Why”

One of Katarina’s greatest takeaways was witnessing the depth of student engagement, particularly in smaller breakout sessions and special topic rooms. She noticed something inspiring: students were asking more questions. They wanted to understand the “why.” They were confident in sharing ideas, offering commentary, and drawing from their lived experiences. They integrated their own stories into meaningful professional contributions, demonstrating passion and innovation.

“It makes me excited for this new group,” Katarina said. “I hope they don’t let their light dim.”

She expressed a heartfelt wish that students continue to let OOTA be part of that glow as they grow and become more involved.

You Have a Seat at the Table

If there is one message Katarina hoped attendees carried home, it is this: Do not be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.

Within the safety of a university setting, students are supported and guided. Entering the real world can feel daunting. Self-doubt may creep in. But students and new graduates have a seat at the table. Their voices matter.

“Students may know less,” she acknowledged, “but they have something to contribute, and it is valued.”

She encourages students to ask questions boldly, attend conferences, submit capstone projects to OOTA, write for newsletters, and share special interest topics. The early years of practice are for learning, and asking questions is not a weakness—it is wisdom.

Voices from the Breakout Room Hosts

Tracey Kennedy, OTR/L, who practices in the NICU acute setting at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, described her session as intimate yet meaningful.

“We had two students present, with insightful questions,” she shared.

While she wished more students could have attended, she appreciated the opportunity to connect and learn alongside fellow OTs in the region. Her message to students was clear: continue exploring the many areas of occupational therapy.

“Many doors open many years down your career,” she reminded them, emphasizing that professional growth often unfolds in unexpected and rewarding ways.

Michelle Foster, COTA/L, of Summit Behavioral Healthcare, described the energy in her session as “high, engaged, and optimistic.” Although only one student from Tennessee remained for the entirety of the session, the conversation was rich. Michelle highlighted the importance of remembering OT’s roots in mental health.

“OT started in mental health, and we are still here doing great work!” she affirmed.

She also noted how valuable it was to learn more about community-based resources like the Cincinnati Clubhouse, reinforcing how collaboration strengthens practice.

Tara Brock, MHS, OTR/L, Program Chair of the Cincinnati State OTA Program, observed thoughtful engagement from students who asked relevant and meaningful questions. She was struck by OTA students’ concerns about employability in school-based practice, particularly around workload versus caseload. Tara shared that students thrive on hearing positive, current practice stories and encouraged them to remember that OT offers tremendous flexibility.

“You can tailor your career to what you want it to be,” she emphasized. “It is rewarding and flexible.”

From the outpatient neuro perspective, Alyssa DeCarlo, MS, OTR/L, MSCS, CSRS, of Cleveland Clinic’s Mellen Center and Twinsburg Edison locations, described her participants as “attentive, inquisitive, and proactively looking at ways to take their careers to the next level.” She was impressed by students’ understanding of how certifications and specialized training can support professional development.

Alyssa reflected that established practitioners must recognize the demands of an ever-changing medical world and commit to mentoring the next generation. Her advice to students: consider rehabilitation as a powerful place to hone medically-based skills while promoting meaningful outcomes across the continuum of care.

Looking Ahead: Building Even More Connection

As proud as she is of this year’s conclave, Katarina is already thinking forward. She would love to expand interactive elements, perhaps incorporating case studies that allow students to exercise clinical decision-making alongside experienced clinicians in a growth-minded environment. Her goal is to foster even more meaningful collaboration, particularly within virtual spaces. Finding ways to make online engagement feel dynamic and life-like is a challenge she is eager to embrace.

A Call to Lead

For students and practitioners considering leadership or event-planning roles within OOTA, Katarina’s advice is simple and heartfelt:

“Do it.”

Follow your heart over your mind. If you feel intrinsically motivated or passionate about a topic, reach out. Connect with board members. OOTA is ready to help you network and find your place. Most importantly, take steps toward that vision and remember, you do not have to do it alone.