“I was drawn to healthcare and have a passion for working with older adults in the areas of productive aging and stroke recovery.”
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 Midwestern University?:
I decided to attend Midwestern because of the interprofessional aspect, and that the University is solely for healthcare graduate students. I feel like that is something that makes Midwestern unique from other schools. I also really enjoyed how supportive the faculty are within the Occupational Therapy Program.
What about a Midwestern University 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 Midwestern University 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 Midwestern University and the Occupational Therapy Program.
