Transforming learning into healing: Level I and Level II fieldwork in our community

Welcome to the Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program at University of the Pacific, where our mission is to prepare students to become competent, socially conscious practitioners. Our unique fieldwork experiences, including Level I and Level II rotations, empower students to translate theory into practice. These diverse placements, ranging from outpatient neuro-rehab to telehealth, cultivate holistic practitioners who value client-centered care and excel in intervention planning using evidence-based strategies. Join us on a transformative journey where learning becomes healing.

Overview

Level I: Unlocking Occupational Therapy Expertise: Our Level I fieldwork courses (OTHR 387A and OTHR 387B) harness Kolb's learning theory, blending innovative teaching techniques and technology to empower students with creative, client-centered responses. These standalone courses optimize problem-solving, practical knowledge application and problem-based learning, bridging the theory-to-clinical implementation gap. Level I fieldwork immerses students in diverse settings, guided by fieldwork educators, to observe and participate in the occupational therapy process. Placed strategically in the program's third and fourth trimesters, these experiences reinforce foundational coursework knowledge, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, community engagement and reflective evidence-based practice. 

Level II: Tailored Fieldwork Experiences: Our fieldwork placements, spanning diverse settings from outpatient neuro-rehab to telehealth, bridge theory with practice. Traditional and non-traditional settings offer holistic, client-centered experiences. Level II fieldwork embodies our curriculum's five threads, equipping graduates as versatile, evidence-based practitioners who excel in intervention planning and inclusive reasoning.

Client-Centered Clinical Excellence Award Recipients

Awards are In recognition of sustained excellence in clinical rotations, a commitment to evidence-based practice and living the mission of University of the Pacific's OTD Program.

  • 2022 Recipients
    • Michelle Drawdy ’23, Carolina Mendiola ‘23
  • 2023 Recipients
    • Julius Marania ’23, Ashlyn Emberley ’23, Megan Asher ’23, Lexi Herman ’23, Hannah Gantuangco ’23, George Cardenas ’24, Brianna Swain ‘24

Student testimonials

“Going into my first Level II fieldwork was one of the most nerve wrecking experiences I’ve had, being in an unfamiliar setting and working with population that was new to me. By the 12th week, I couldn’t be happier with my experience. I love working with patients during some of the toughest times in their lives and helping them work back to what matters to them. I stepped out of my comfort zone and expanded my interest in future practice. I am thankful for a supportive CI who helped me build my confidence and grow my skills as a practitioner.” 

—Carolina Mendiola, ’23

“Thank you to the professors at UOP for molding me into the clinician I am becoming. And to both my wonderful clinical instructors for taking their time and helping me in the field. Through fieldwork I gained essential knowledge on how to become the best OT to serve our clients. I was constantly pushed outside my comfort zone and challenged to try new things. Again, I’d like to thank the faculty for giving me this award. And to anyone who think they can’t do it; YOU can do it.”

—Julius Marania, ‘23

Clinical educators

University of the Pacific’s Occupational Therapy Department policy requires Level II fieldwork with an onsite OTR who provides 50% or more of the supervision. This occupational therapist must be currently licensed or credentialed as an OTR and have practiced for at least one year since completing the initial certification. Sometimes 2-3 fieldwork educators share supervision of students. We do not recommend more than 3 supervisors to ensure consistency of expectations and building positive mentorship relationships.

  • Planning for student learning experiences: Our fieldwork team will help you plan for hosting fieldwork students and work with you throughout the duration of the placement.
  • Continuing education opportunities are provided throughout the year to support our clinical educators.
  • Educators can collaborate with students to determine a final project that has dual benefits for the organization and to integrate student’s clinical knowledge.
  • Recognition and award opportunities based on student and faculty nominations.

Contact information

Academic Fieldwork Coordinator (AFWC)

Natalie Loera
Assistant Clinical Professor
nloera@pacific.edu
916.325.4602 

Clinical Specialist – Clinical Education

Aimal Naeemi
Administrative Assistant
anaeemi@pacific.edu  
916.325.4683