“For three years I took prerequisites at community colleges with hopes to apply to an O.T. program,” she said. “I was rejected the first time in North Carolina, before I learned my son was on the way and decided to take the time to raise a family.”

When she read about Radford’s M.O.T. program in an alumni publication, Polakiewicz was going through a divorce and working more than 60 hours a week waiting tables to pay her bills. She thought the program could be her last opportunity for career success.

“I was lucky enough to have an interview with Dr. Mitchell, where I was able to explain my undergrad GPA and also how serious and dedicated I was, not only to furthering my education but to the field of occupational therapy,” she said. “In my time doing my social work internship, I interacted with a couple of O.T.s, and it was the first time I really felt a passion for a job.”

She also credits Waldron Instructor Sheila Krajnik—her advisor, graduate assistantship supervisor, mentor and confidante—with giving her the confidence to pursue the degree. “She encouraged me but also pushed me to perform my best academically,” Polakiewicz said.

For Polakiewicz and her M.O.T. classmates, the program was intense: seven semesters of full-time graduate study.

Raymond Linville, dean of the Waldron College, said the accomplishment of the charter class is a testament to each member’s dedication, and the graduates’ prospects are bright. “The program was designed to address rural needs and an aging American population,” he said. “It is an innovative program that responds to the growing demand for highly educated occupational therapists.

Occupational therapy is a health profession that focuses on enabling people with special needs to do the tasks of daily life: to care for themselves, their families and homes; to work or study; and to enjoy rest and recreation. Occupational therapists work with people of all ages through hospitals, schools and community agencies.

Radford’s M.O.T. program won accreditation earlier this year, significant because only graduates of an accredited program may be credentialed and employed as occupational therapists. The national certification exam for the Radford’s first M.O.T. graduates will be in early 2012.