Investing in Care: How Your Support Empowers Future Occupational Therapists

Occupational Therapy plays a vital role in helping individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life. Behind every success story is a dedicated therapist committed to making a difference. Ali Hotchkiss is one such individual. As an Occupational Therapy Intern working in the Capitol Lakes community, Ali’s journey reflects passion, dedication, and the real impact of hands-on clinical experience. Thanks to you, the Capitol Lakes Foundation was able to recognize her commitment by providing her a stipend toward her tuition, supporting her education and growth. This post explores Ali’s background, her motivation for choosing occupational therapy, and how her work at Capitol Lakes shapes her future and benefits our residents.

From Naperville to Madison: Ali’s Educational Path

Ali Hotchkiss grew up in Naperville, Illinois, and graduated from Indiana University in May 2024 with highest distinction. She majored in Exercise Science and minored in Psychology, combining knowledge of physical health and mental processes. This academic foundation prepared her well for occupational therapy, which requires understanding both body and mind.

Outside of school, Ali enjoys crocheting and playing ultimate frisbee, activities that reflect her creativity and active lifestyle. Currently, she is a second-year Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She describes her clinical education experience at Capitol Lakes as exciting and rewarding, marking an important step in her professional development.

Choosing Occupational Therapy: A Commitment to Inclusion

Ali’s decision to pursue occupational therapy came from years of involvement with organizations promoting inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She worked at the Western DuPage Special Recreation Association, supporting children with disabilities and advocating for their inclusion in summer camps and community programs.

Her passion for inclusion continued in Madison, where she worked for Madison School and Community Recreation. There, she served as Recreation Inclusion Staff and later as Inclusion Services Coordinator, roles that deepened her understanding of how community programs can be adapted to meet diverse needs.

This background gave Ali a clear sense of purpose. Occupational therapy offered a way to combine her interests in health, psychology, and community support into a career focused on improving lives.

Clinical Education at Capitol Lakes: Applying Skills in Real Life

Ali ranked Capitol Lakes as her first choice for fieldwork rotations through her OT program at UW Madison. She feels grateful to have been placed here for her first 12-week clinical education experience. Under the supervision of Tory Kehoe, she applies classroom knowledge to real patient care.

Her work includes conducting occupational therapy evaluations and interventions, gaining hands-on experience that is crucial for her development. Spending 40 hours a week at Capitol Lakes, Ali balances the demands of clinical education with her personal and financial responsibilities.

The Capitol Lakes Foundation’s tuition stipend acknowledges her hard work and helps ease the financial burden of her education. This support allows her to focus more fully on learning and serving the community.

The Impact of Occupational Therapy on Residents

At Capitol Lakes, Ali works closely with residents to improve their daily functioning and independence. Occupational therapy here involves:

• Assessing physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities

• Designing personalized therapy plans

• Supporting residents in activities such as dressing, cooking, and leisure

• Encouraging social participation and mental well-being

  
  

Ali’s role is not just about therapy techniques but also about building relationships and understanding each resident’s unique goals. This holistic approach helps residents maintain dignity and enjoy a better quality of life.

Balancing Education, Work, and Life

The 12-week clinical rotation requires a significant time commitment. Ali spends full-time hours at Capitol Lakes, which challenges her to manage her studies, work responsibilities, and personal life. The tuition stipend from the Capitol Lakes Foundation provides financial relief, making it easier for her to focus on her clinical work without excessive stress.

Her experience highlights the importance of community support for students in demanding healthcare programs. Financial assistance and mentorship create an environment where students can thrive and contribute meaningfully.

Looking Ahead: A Future in Occupational Therapy

Ali’s journey is just beginning, but her experiences at Capitol Lakes have already shaped her vision for the future. She plans to continue working in settings that promote inclusion and support individuals with disabilities.

Her story shows how education, community involvement, and clinical practice come together to prepare skilled occupational therapists. By investing in students like Ali, communities ensure that future generations receive compassionate and effective care.

Ali Hotchkiss’s path from Naperville to Capitol Lakes demonstrates the power of dedication and support in occupational therapy education. Her work enriches the lives of residents and builds a foundation for a meaningful career. The Capitol Lakes Foundation’s tuition stipend you make possible is more than financial aid—it is an investment in the future of care and inclusion.