Email Bella to learn more about her pre-occupational therapy path, hands-on experiences, student organizations, and more!

Get to know Bella:

Why did you choose Health Science at Mizzou?

I chose Mizzou because it felt right to me from the moment I stepped on campus. It wasn’t just the beautiful campus or the strong health science program, but the atmosphere. Everywhere I went, people were welcoming, encouraging, and genuinely excited about their community. The health science professors and staff truly want to see you grow and succeed as you start this new chapter. That sense of belonging and support played a huge role in choosing where I wanted to spend the next four years.

Tell us more about how you’ve gotten hands-on experience!

One of my favorite hands-on experiences has been through POTA, the Pre-Occupational Therapy Association. We volunteer with a childcare program, where we spend time with kids who have diverse developmental needs, while their parents have a social hour. I honestly look forward to the first Friday of every month because the bonds I’ve formed with these kids are so sweet. It’s been a great way to get real experience in the field, but more than that, it’s incredibly rewarding knowing that simply playing, laughing, and dancing with them for a short time can give their families time to connect with others.

What advice do you have for incoming students?

My biggest advice for incoming students is to remember that starting this new chapter can feel a little scary—and that’s completely okay. College is truly what you make of it, so get involved early, say yes to new things, and try not to head home right away so you can really settle in. Make an effort to follow up with new friends, too; those little moments can build really great connections!