Fiona Dickinson is an Occupational Therapy Student and an Interprofessional Education (IPE) Scholar.
What do you enjoy most about interprofessional activities?
The main aspect of interprofessional activities that I have enjoyed is meeting other students and gaining a better understanding of how our professions can work together to provide the most effective and client-centered care. Having these experiences alongside my on-site fieldwork highlights how failing to utilize the skills of every member of the care team is a disservice to the individuals we serve. When we all work together and use our strengths, we can provide the best care that can have lasting effects and improve the quality of life for each person.
How do interprofessional activities enhance your learning and/or training?
Interprofessional activities enhance my learning by allowing me to apply classroom knowledge in a more collaborative and realistic context. They push me to think beyond my own profession and consider how different perspectives contribute to comprehensive, client-centered care. Through these experiences, I have developed stronger communication skills, a better understanding of team dynamics, and an appreciation for the unique roles each discipline plays. This has been especially valuable alongside my fieldwork, where I can see how effective collaboration directly impacts patient outcomes. Overall, interprofessional activities help bridge the gap between theory and practice while preparing me to function as part of a cohesive care team.
How do you envision incorporating what you learn through interprofessional activities into your future career?
In my future career, I plan to intentionally incorporate the collaborative skills and perspectives I have gained through interprofessional activities into my everyday practice. I want to be an advocate for team-based, client-centered care by actively engaging with other professionals, valuing their expertise, and contributing my own perspective as an occupational therapist. These experiences have shown me that effective communication and mutual respect are essential to optimizing outcomes, and I hope to help foster environments where all team members feel empowered to contribute. Ultimately, I aim to use these skills to support more holistic, coordinated care that improves both patient outcomes and overall quality of life.