EMMA SO
Chicago,IL
Summary
Occupational therapy student with experience in psychology, patient care, and developmental research. Skilled in ASL, inclusive recreation, and supporting individuals with disabilities. Passionate about promoting independence and well-being in healthcare and community settings.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Volunteer
Navarro Farms
New Lenox, Illinois
05.2025 - Current
- Supported farmers with intellectual, physical, and developmental disabilities during agricultural work and daily routines.
- Led participants in planting, harvesting, cooking, and animal care stations to enhance hands-on learning experiences.
- Created inclusive setting that encouraged skill development, independence, and engagement.
Program Aide
Lincoln-Way Special Recreation Association
New Lenox, IL
07.2020 - 08.2026
- Assisted individuals with physical and mental disabilities in various recreational activities.
- Managed and de-escalated behavioral challenges to ensure a safe experience for all participants.
- Facilitated communication and created an inclusive, supportive environment.
- Adapted group activities to meet individual participant needs.
- Provided personal care, including feeding and changing.
Research Assistant
University of Iowa - Developmental Psychology Lab
Iowa City, IA
01.2025 - 12.2026
- Conducted research on developmental behavior problems and positive adjustment, with a focus on externalizing behavior issues such as aggression and noncompliance.
- Assisted in studying self-regulation skills and their impact on children's school readiness and long-term adjustment.
- Contributed to research discussions and literature reviews to support ongoing projects.
- Contributed to research discussions and literature reviews to support ongoing projects.
Home Aide
Private Home Care
Iowa City, IA
01.2025 - 12.2026
- Assisted client that is post stroke with daily living activities and rehabilitation exercises.
- Guided the client through occupational therapy exercises to improve mobility and independence
- Provided companionship and emotional support to enhance overall well-being.
- Monitored progress and adapted care routines based on individual needs.
Research Assistant
University of Iowa- Denburg Lab
Iowa City, IA
02.2024 - 12.2025
- Re-scored patient Boston Naming Test (BNT) results to evaluate inconsistent discontinue rates in neuropsychological testing.
- Reviewed and analyzed patient records undergoing neurophysiological assessments for research accuracy.
- Contributed to data preparation for an empirical report currently in progress.
Unit Partner
University of Iowa Healthcare
Iowa City, IA
08.2023 - 11.2024
- Assisted hospital staff in feeding, bathing, and ambulating patients on a medical-surgical floor.
- Provided compassionate care and support to patients from diverse backgrounds.
- Maintained cleanliness and safety in patient areas, ensuring optimal comfort and hygiene
Education
Doctor of Occupational Therapy -
Rush Univeristy
Chicago05-2029
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
University of Iowa
Iowa City05-2026
Skills
- Patient Care
- Behavioral support
- Activity adaptation
- American Sign Language
- Data collection
- CPR certification
OT Shadowing
- Inpatient Occupational Therapy, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics 400 hours
- Outpatient Neuro Rehabilitation, On with Life 16 hours
- Early Intervention 45 hours
- Evolve Nature Therapy 10 hours
Timeline
Volunteer
Navarro Farms
05.2025 - Current
Research Assistant
University of Iowa - Developmental Psychology Lab
01.2025 - 12.2026
Home Aide
Private Home Care
01.2025 - 12.2026
Research Assistant
University of Iowa- Denburg Lab
02.2024 - 12.2025
Unit Partner
University of Iowa Healthcare
08.2023 - 11.2024
Program Aide
Lincoln-Way Special Recreation Association
07.2020 - 08.2026
Doctor of Occupational Therapy -
Rush Univeristy
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
University of Iowa