Dr. Pallavi Patel College of Health Care Sciences (PCHCS)—Department of Occupational Therapy 2023–2024 207 needs to bring a doctor’s note to the professor to be granted an opportunity to take the exam at another time. Illness and other health concerns should be discussed with the program director. Academic Advising and Professional Development Each M.O.T. student is assigned an academic adviser at matriculation in the program. The role of an academic adviser is to provide students with assistance and support to attain the most from their educational experiences; mentor professional behavior self-assessment and development; provide academic guidance, direction, and encouragement; monitor overall progress; and identify appropriate resources. Each student should schedule a meeting with the student’s adviser at least once a semester. Each student’s academic adviser, being aware of many valuable resources, can assist in every facet of the program if the student is having problems that might interfere with the student’s studies or progress. Students should not hesitate to contact their adviser. Also it is expected that students will respond to any email communication from their academic adviser within 24 hours of receipt. During the third year, students are mentored in their professional development by their onsite fieldwork educators. The Academic Fieldwork Coordinator serves as the academic adviser and provides additional support while the student is participating in these two Level II fieldwork experiences. Essential Functions The M.O.T. program created the Essential Functions Policy for Admissions, Retention, and Graduation. Essential functions refer to those abilities required for satisfactorily completion of all aspects of the M.O.T. program and curriculum, including field work education, and the professional attributes required of all students for degree completion. Those essential functions are listed at healthsciences.nova.edu/ot/forms/essential-functions.pdf. Dress Code The Department of Occupational Therapy observes the PCHCS policy regarding dress code whether on or off campus. In addition, occupational therapy students should wear occupational therapy polo shirts and either khaki or dark-colored trouser-, boot-, or straight-legged pants, when engaged in preservice or service-learning experiences, or during special events, either on or off campus, at the discretion of the department. Slim or tight leg pants, including leggings, and shorts of any length are not acceptable. Professional Membership Upon entry into the M.O.T. program, students are required to obtain membership with the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and sustain that membership throughout the duration of the program. Maintaining AOTA membership will ensure access to necessary professional resources required throughout the curriculum and will facilitate development of a professional identity. Professional Engagement All M.O.T. students are required to attend at least one regional, state, or national conference or meeting per year while enrolled in the program. In addition, all students must participate in professional development activities each year (see Academic Advising and Professional Development above).
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