Alex Burns

Dedicated and compassionate Human Development and Family Science major at Virginia Tech with hands-on experience in patient care and rehabilitation methods. Skilled in supporting diverse populations through developmentally appropriate care and therapeutic strategies. Passionate about improving the well-being of individuals, with a strong interest in pursuing a career in healthcare. Eager to apply academic knowledge and practical experience to support clients in achieving greater independence and quality of life.

Communication and Teamwork

• Collaborated with peers and professors in group projects, fostering strong teamwork and interpersonal communication skills essential for working with multidisciplinary teams.
• Gained experience in effectively communicating with patients and families during mock therapy sessions, learning to adapt language and explanations to individual needs.
• Engaged in active listening and empathy, essential for understanding patient concerns and providing supportive care.

Adaptability and Problem-Solving

• Demonstrated flexibility and adaptability in academic and volunteer settings, learning to respond to diverse patient needs and environmental challenges.
• Developed problem-solving skills by assessing and modifying therapy activities to accommodate patients' varying levels of ability and progress.
  Applied creative thinking to design inclusive, accessible, and engaging activities for individuals with different functional needs.

Research and Evidence-Based Practices

• Conducted research in Human Development and Family Science courses, exploring current trends and best practices in occupational therapy.
• Applied academic knowledge to real-world scenarios in classroom labs, gaining experience in using evidence-based approaches for patient care.
• Participated in workshops and seminars related to occupational therapy, expanding understanding of new therapeutic techniques and interventions.