A LITTLE BIT ABOUT ME... |
Hi! My name is Payton Johnston, and I am from Memphis, TN. I attended The University of Memphis where I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise, Sport, & Movement Sciences as well as a minor in Nutrition, Health, & Wellness. I love spending time with friends and family, visiting the park with my dog, Ghost, traveling, & playing tennis!
Within the greater Memphis area, I have been exposed to individuals with varied diagnoses, treatment strategies, and therapeutic settings within the field of occupational therapy through observations, internships, and substantial voluntary work. In each setting and with every client, I have been inspired by the therapists’ compassion, understanding, and patience in each environment to help each client to regain independence. I am drawn to the field of occupational therapy because I have always valued helping and supporting others in any situation. After losing my father to addiction 8 years ago, I knew I wanted to belong to a profession dedicated to helping people. As the oldest sibling, I found it was part of my responsibility to be there on an emotional level and help my family any way I could. I am determined to use occupational therapy as a way to transform the pain I have endured into something fruitful for others. During my senior year, I became a teacher's assistant in a special education classroom where I experienced firsthand the obstacles young adults with disabilities face and the ways in which having assistance helped them achieve their goals. I became very familiar with many diagnoses such as Autism, Down syndrome, hearing loss, and many others. This opportunity opened many doors for me, including my involvement with Best Buddies which promotes inclusion and encourages one-on-one friendships between students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Participating as a peer buddy in a one-on-one friendship and eventually serving as the chapter president in high school and during my undergraduate career, I was able to connect with the students and parents on a much deeper level. This and later on completing an internship at Madonna Learning Center, a school for individuals with disabilities, broadened my knowledge of the field of occupational therapy and increased my interest in pursuing it as a career. I am blessed to say, I am currently a third-year occupational therapy student. Within the past 6 months, I have completed my level II fieldwork rotations. My first rotation was at Encompass Health Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital in Memphis, TN, and my second rotation I completed at Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), also located here in Memphis, TN. I will graduate from the UTHSC Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) program on May 13, 2024! With knowledge of rehabilitation and my passion for working with people with Intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), I believe I can create an improved, more independent life for my future clients. I am so grateful to be a part of a profession that serves others each day and truly makes a difference in each client's life. |