LIVE From South College - Episode 14 Get To Know Dr Christina Odeh & DPT, PTA, OTA & OTD

05/12/25 • 34 min

Keywords South College, Doctor of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, healthcare education, physical therapist assistant, hybrid learning, rehabilitation sciences, healthcare careers, student experience, immersive learning

Summary The conversation explores the various healthcare programs offered at South College, focusing on the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) programs. The discussion highlights the unique aspects of these programs, including their hybrid learning format, the importance of fieldwork experiences, and the qualities sought in prospective students. Personal stories from the speakers illustrate their journeys into healthcare and the passion that drives them to help others. The conversation emphasizes the supportive learning environment at South College and the commitment required from students to succeed in these rigorous programs.

Takeaways

South College offers a hybrid learning format combining online and in-person experiences.
The DPT program is popular due to the increasing need for rehabilitative care.
Students in the DPT program often have personal experiences that motivate them to pursue this career.
The PTA program provides a pathway for students to work closely with physical therapists.
Occupational therapy focuses on helping individuals regain independence across their lifespan.
The OTD program prepares students for advanced roles in occupational therapy.
Students are encouraged to explore their unique passions within rehabilitation sciences.
The rigorous nature of the programs is likened to a professional boot camp.
Personal experiences often shape students' career choices in healthcare.
Creating a supportive environment is key to student success in healthcare education.

Sound Bites

"Think of it as a professional boot camp."
"I had to find strategies that work for me."
"No sharks in Dr. Odeh's office."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to South College and Rehabilitation Sciences

04:35 Exploring the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

08:02 Understanding the Associate Programs: PTA and OTA

10:38 The Role of Occupational Therapy and OTD

13:43 Dr. Odeh's Journey into Rehabilitation Sciences

16:49 Creating Purpose in Rehabilitation Education

19:47 Personal Insights and Student Experiences

24:54 Introduction to Occupational Therapy Education

27:58 Program Structure and Curriculum Overview

30:56 Expectations and Challenges of the Program

34:00 Personal Journey into Occupational Therapy

37:01 Closing Thoughts and Future Pathways

Got a question? Have some feedback? Email us at [email protected] or come visit us at www.south.edu. Follow us on social media too. The Live from South College Podcast is your source for all South College activity including new student information, deeps dive’s into our 100+ programs, and concentrations, “Tools of the Trade,” and even Live on location from all of our campuses! Great interviews with Faculty, Staff, Deans and hear from South College students and alumni in their own words. From Certificates all the way to Doctoral degrees, catch up with “Live from South College” for the lighter side of helping your dreams find direction.

Takeaways

South College offers a hybrid learning format combining online and in-person experiences.
The DPT program is popular due to the increasing need for rehabilitative care.
Students in the DPT program often have personal experiences that motivate them to pursue this career.
The PTA program provides a pathway for students to work closely with physical therapists.
Occupational therapy focuses on helping individuals regain independence across their lifespan.
The OTD program prepares students for advanced roles in occupational therapy.
Students are encouraged to explore their unique passions within rehabilitation sciences.
The rigorous nature of the programs is likened to a professional boot camp.
Personal experiences often shape students' career choices in healthcare.
Creating a supportive environment is key to student success in healthcare education.

Sound Bites

"Think of it as a professional boot camp."
"I had to find strategies that work for me."
"No sharks in Dr. Odeh's office."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to South College and Rehabilitation Sciences

04:35 Exploring the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

08:02 Understanding the Associate Programs: PTA and OTA

10:38 The Role of Occupational Therapy and OTD

13:43 Dr. Odeh's Journey into Rehabilitation Sciences

16:49 Creating Purpose in Rehabilitation Education

19:47 Personal Insights and Student Experiences

24:54 Introduction to Occupational Therapy Education

27:58 Program Structure and Curriculum Overview

30:56 Expectations and Challenges of the Program

34:00 Personal Journey into Occupational Therapy

37:01 Closing Thoughts and Future Pathways

Previous Episode

LIVE From South College - Episode 13 Online Programs & Pittsburgh Campus w/ Anne & Larry And Whose Got 15,000 Students?

Keywords South College, online education, nursing programs, healthcare education, student support, Pittsburgh campus, graduation, online learning experience, community healthcare needs, student journeys

Summary In this conversation, Kathleen Stockham discusses the growth and achievements of South College, highlighting the milestone of reaching 15,000 students. The discussion focuses on the unique aspects of South College's online programs, the support provided to students, and the popular nursing programs offered with Pittsburgh campus President Anne Petrella and Senior VP of Enrollment, Larry Karcher. The importance of in-person graduation ceremonies is emphasized, along with the community's healthcare needs and the personal journeys of the speakers in education. The conversation concludes with reflections on balancing work, family, and education.

takeaways

South College has reached a milestone of 15,000 students.
Online offers over 100 programs and concentrations.
Strong support teams are assigned to online students.
The online learning experience is flexible and accommodating.
The Master of Science in Nursing program has seen significant growth.
In-person graduation ceremonies foster community and connection.
Healthcare needs in the community are being addressed through education.
Personal journeys in education can inspire and motivate students.
Education is viewed as a liberating force for many.
South College is committed to helping students change their lives.

Sound Bites

"We are at 15,000 students!"
"We meet students where they are."
"Education is a liberating force."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to South College Online Programs

02:48 Unique Features of South College Online

05:46 Understanding the Online Student Profile

08:32 Exploring the Pittsburgh Campus

11:32 Popular Online Programs and Their Impact

14:24 In-Person Graduation Experience

16:56 Addressing Community Healthcare Needs

19:46 Personal Educational Journeys

22:42 Conclusion and Future Outlook

31:52 Celebrating Milestones at South College

33:51 Pathways to Success at South College

Next Episode

LIVE From South College - Episode 15 - All About Financial Aid with EVP Dr. Carol Colvin and Dir. Ryan Kins

Keywords financial aid, South College, scholarships, grants, FAFSA, student loans, Tennessee Promise, veterans benefits, education funding, student experience

Summary In this episode, Kathleen Stockham discusses financial aid with Dr. Carol Colvin and Ryan Kins from South College. They cover a range of topics including the financial aid process, the differences between scholarships and grants, Tennessee state aid options, and the importance of FAFSA. The conversation also touches on student loans, veterans benefits, and personal stories from the financial aid team, highlighting their commitment to helping students succeed in their educational journeys.

takeaways