Applying to OT School - March 30, 2026

So You Want to Be an OT? Let's Get Real.

Think applying to OT school is just filling out forms and crossing your fingers? Think again. Join us for a no-fluff, all-fire session where current OT students, admissions insiders, and practicing therapists pull back the curtain on what it actually takes to land a seat in a competitive program. We're talking personal statement secrets, the observation hours myth, and the application mistakes that quietly kill your chances — all in one room. Come ready to take notes, ask the questions you've been afraid to Google, and leave with a game plan that actually works.

This presentation guides prospective students through the process of discovering and pursuing a career in occupational therapy. It explores what OT is, how to gain meaningful experiences, and how to build a strong application. Attendees will leave with practical strategies, key timelines, and insider tips to confidently navigate their path from initial interest to successful admission into an OT program.

About our presenters

Elizabeth Torres, OTD, OTR/L, CAPS, CLIPP, ECHM Assistant Professor & Director of Admissions

Dr. Elizabeth Torres is originally from the Bay Area and earned her Doctorate in occupational therapy from the University of Kansas. With diverse clinical experience in various rehab settings (acute, inpatient, home health, skilled-nursing and long-term care) with certifications as a Living in Place Professional (CLIPP), Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), and Home Modifications (ECHM). She continues to practice as an OT in Kansas City in acute and inpatient settings, bringing real-world practice insights into the classroom. Outside of work, Dr. Torres enjoys spending time with her fiancé and family, working out, exploring coffee shops, cooking, and outdoor adventures with her pups, Bonnie and Clyde. 

Susan Lingelbach, OTD, OTR/L, Assistant Director of Admissions

Susan Lingelbach, OTD, OTR/L is an occupational therapist, educator, and admissions leader dedicated to expanding access to occupational therapy education. She currently serves as the Assistant Director of Admissions for the Hawai‘i Pacific University Doctor of Occupational Therapy (HPU OTD) program in Las Vegas, where she was also the inaugural Director of Admissions and led the development of holistic, equity-centered admissions processes.

Dr. Lingelbach is a founder of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) Community of Practice for Academic Admissions, created to foster collaboration among national colleagues and advance more inclusive and transparent admissions practices across OT programs.

Grounded in her core pillars of health, access, and belonging, her work focuses on supporting pre-OT students through values-based and authentic approaches to the application process. She encourages prospective students to align their personal values with those of their future institutions, helping them make informed decisions and craft meaningful, standout applications.

This event is ENTIRELY free to all registrants!

REGISTER HERE