With our commencement ceremonies set for Saturday and Sunday, May 17-18, 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 Ryan Kissel of Jefferson City, Missouri, who is completing an Occupational Therapy Doctorate.

Favorite quote:

“Sometimes the best way to solve your own problems is to help someone else.”

–Uncle Iroh

An interesting fact about you:

I was a gamer before it was cool.

What does graduating from the Mizzou College of Health Sciences mean to you?

This achievement has set a new standard for what I aim to accomplish moving forward. My education has opened doors to possibilities that weren’t available to me before.

What was one of your favorite classes within your degree track?

Advanced practice strategies became my favorite course because it integrated our entire curriculum through meaningful discussions and application of current evidence. The class allowed us to translate theoretical knowledge into practical skills, creating a dynamic learning environment where concepts truly came to life.

What activities have you been involved in along the way?

During my time at Mizzou, I served as a student ambassador, where I advocated for the occupational therapy profession to prospective undergraduate students. This experience enabled me to represent the occupational therapy field with students interested in health care careers.

Who helped you during your college journey?

Having developed good study habits and a work ethic earlier on in my education gave me the discipline necessary to succeed in a professional program.

What memories stand out from your time at Mizzou?

Throughout my education, I valued the numerous opportunities to work directly with diverse community members, campus partners and interdisciplinary teams — all experiences that reinforced how occupational therapy is fundamentally about understanding and supporting people in their unique contexts and daily lives.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to begin my career in a setting focused on health and human performance, either rehabilitating clients in an outpatient environment or supporting individuals returning to or exploring new vocational pursuits. My goal is to apply my training in a way that makes a meaningful difference in helping people achieve their functional goals.

What advice do you have for current and future students?

Have a long-term plan by identifying what things could look like for you at each step of the program before you begin. The transition from undergraduate to a professional program presents unique challenges to your ability to practically apply the information you learn, requiring you to integrate classroom knowledge with real client experiences.