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Maia Korsrud

Calgary-based student Maia Korsrud was drawn to the MScOT program because she had always envisioned herself working in a health-care setting, making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.  

She loves the occupational therapy profession’s focus on helping people achieve their goals in the most holistic and personalized way possible and its blend of medical sciences and creativity to support individuals in achieving what matters most to them.

From her new post in rural ß÷ßäÉçÇø, Korsrud reflects on her time with the program, and shares some advice for future MScOT students.   

Did anyone encourage you to keep going when things got tough?

I had the most amazing and supportive cohort. I'm so fortunate to have been a part of the Calgary satellite campus and over the course of the program I grew close with my classmates. While we were a smaller group, we all supported each other and it truly felt like a tight-knit family. I am very appreciative of the wonderful classmates that I had beside me throughout the program.

What advice would you give to a student thinking of pursuing an MScOT?

Enjoy every moment! While there are long nights of studying and heavy workloads at times, the two years of the program truly fly by. We had the opportunity to learn from various professionals, specialists and extremely knowledgeable occupational therapists and rehabilitation professionals, as well as participate in rewarding labs and learning opportunities. Keep the connections you make, and be sure to have fun along the way. 

What comes next for you now that you have completed your program?

Since graduating from the program, I have relocated to northern ß÷ßäÉçÇø. I accepted a position as an occupational therapist with ß÷ßäÉçÇø Health Services, based in High Level. This role has been both challenging and rewarding, pushing me to utilize the full scope of my clinical skills and knowledge. In this position, I provide occupational therapy services to patients of all ages with a wide range of diagnoses. My practice covers various settings, including acute care, home care, continuing care and outpatient services to several communities within the area. It has been rewarding and fulfilling to witness the positive impact that occupational therapy can have on individuals living in rural and remote areas, where access to health-care services is often limited. Being able to contribute to my patients’ goals and being a part of their journey highlights the importance of our profession in enhancing quality of life and well-being for all, including those in rural communities.