Interprofessional collaboration in education: The ATSU Doctor of Occupational Therapy experience

Interprofessional collaboration in education: The ATSU Doctor of Occupational Therapy experience

Aly Kouyate, OTD, '28, is a student in the A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) Doctor of Occupational Therapy program, class of 2028. A graduate of Syracuse University with a bachelor of science in kinesiology, Kouyate chose ATSU-ASHS for its emphasis on leadership opportunities and a collaborative learning environment that mirrors real-world healthcare settings.

Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Kouyate is dedicated to amplifying student voices and advocating for the profession. As a student ambassador, he is passionate about expanding awareness of occupational therapy and preparing for his future as a provider.

Why did you choose the OTD program at ATSU-ASHS?

"I chose ATSU-ASHS because it aligns closely with both my professional goals and the kind of learning environment I thrive in. The program offers meaningful opportunities for leadership, allowing students to take initiative, like roles like the Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) executive board, grow as advocates for the profession in the form of a strong social justice club, and develop confidence beyond the classroom. Additionally, ATSU's emphasis on collaboration with PTs, OTs, and PAs through interprofessional clinics mirrors how healthcare actually functions. Working alongside other disciplines in simulated real-world environments strengthens communication, teamwork, and clinical reasoning. It's also a great chance to apply what I have learned in the classroom."

What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?

"I really enjoy the weather, and there always seems to be something going on. Events are easy to find, with information readily available through things like postings around campus. I never feel bored at school and there's always something to do outside of class, whether that's going on a hike or playing soccer most days of the week."

What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASHS helping prepare you for your career?

"Ultimately, I hope to be a competent healthcare worker. A personal goal is my capstone. I aim to investigate along the lines of how high-intensity, personalized neurological rehabilitation protocols potentially incorporating telehealth and novel technologies can improve functional outcomes and fill the gap between current clinical practice and what research suggests is necessary to maximize neuroplasticity and recovery after something like a brain injury. This is just the preliminary idea and I'm still in my first year! "

You are president of SOTA. Why did you choose to pursue that role?

"I chose to pursue the role of president because it represents a meaningful opportunity for leadership and advocacy within the occupational therapy community. Through this position, I am able to help amplify student voices, advocate for the needs of my peers, and contribute to initiatives that strengthen our program and profession. My role is to engage in activities such as organizing meetings and events with special interest sections, facilitating communication between students and faculty, promoting professional development opportunities, and supporting advocacy efforts related to occupational therapy. Serving as president allows me to develop leadership, communication, and organizational skills while actively giving back to a community I care deeply about."

Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?

"I became a student ambassador because I see it as an opportunity to help expand and advocate for the occupational therapy profession. Being able to explain what occupational therapy truly means, along with what ATSU offers, is something I strongly believe in. I value having the chance to represent the profession and the program, and I'm grateful to be given a platform so early in my academic career to share that message with others."