Dec. 15, 2025
With our commencement ceremonies set for Friday, Dec. 19, we’re highlighting a few of the incredible students who will soon be alumni of the College of Health Sciences.
Read on to learn more about Elizabeth Scheer of New Haven, Missouri, who is completing a Bachelor of Health Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant.


Elizabeth Scheer
Degree: Bachelor of Health Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant
Hometown: New Haven, Missouri
Favorite quote:
“It’s important to give it all you have while you have the chance.”
— Shania Twain
An interesting fact about you:
I spent three weeks in South Africa, where I bungee jumped off the highest bridge jump in the world! It was a beautiful (and thrilling) place to explore.
What does graduating from the Mizzou College of Health Sciences mean to you?
The Mizzou College of Health Sciences has been an amazing opportunity that has set me up for success. I am so excited to begin working as an occupational therapy assistant and help others in practice, just as all the professors and staff have helped me thrive in the classroom.
What was one of your favorite classes within your degree track?
I absolutely loved all of my occupational therapy assistant courses; they have shaped me to be the best therapist I can be as a new graduate. Each semester, we had a fieldwork class that included a week-long placement out in the field. These experiences complemented other courses and allowed me to apply classroom learning to real-world practice.
What activities have you been involved in along the way?
I have been involved in the Students of Occupational Therapy Association, where I was the Mizzou assembly delegate. I had the opportunity to represent the university in Orlando last year and meet with all the other occupational therapy practitioner student representatives from across the country. It was great to gain experience, make connections and meet new friends. I also have been involved as a College of Health Sciences ambassador, helping potential new students learn more about Mizzou.
Who helped you during your college journey?
My parents and my sister have been huge supporters. They have always supported me in every way, even when I decided to come back to school for a second bachelor’s degree! I also had an amazing mentorship with Dr. Samantha Shea Lemoins. She guided me through my baccalaureate project and allowed me to flourish in ways I never thought possible. Dr. Shea always expected more from me, pushing me to be a better future occupational therapy assistant.
What memories stand out from your time at Mizzou?
Getting to spend time with my extended family when they would come and visit. My grandpa and his brothers, my parents, three uncles, two aunts and all of my cousins (with another on the way next fall) have attended Mizzou, and it is amazing being surrounded by my family here at our home! MIZ!
What advice do you have for current and future students?
It is okay if you don’t have it all figured out! I graduated, took a year and a half and then came back to school! I had a lot of struggles my first time around in college, but after some time away I was able to find a true passion for occupational therapy and here soon I will be Elizabeth Scheer, BHS, OTA-B!