Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

KATHERINE E. PETERSON

Virginia Beach

Summary

Dedicated occupational therapy doctoral student focused on enhancing participation, performance, and well-being across the lifespan. Early experiences as a peer model in a reverse mainstream preschool, coupled with volunteer work with diverse populations, fostered a lifelong commitment to inclusion and advocacy. Personal experiences with a family member diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease drive the integration of evidence-based, client-centered approaches aimed at empowering individuals to achieve independence, dignity, and meaningful engagement in daily life. Eager to contribute innovative solutions that promote holistic health and improve the quality of life for all clients.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Babysitter

Childcare Provider
09.2014 - Current
  • Provided care for children ages 2–11, including transportation, homework support, and meal preparation.
  • Maintained structured, nurturing environments promoting learning and growth.

Waitress

Fellini’s Restaurant
09.2015 - 06.2025
  • Delivered high-quality customer service in a fast-paced environment.
  • Collaborated with kitchen and staff to ensure smooth operations and guest satisfaction.

Assistant Teacher

Child Development Center for Learning and Research
01.2022 - 05.2023
  • Promoted cognitive, social-emotional, language, physical, and sensory development through play-based activities.
  • Created inclusive, supportive classroom environments for children of diverse abilities.
  • Communicated progress with families, faculty, and university visitors; integrated research into daily practice.

Undergraduate Library Assistant

Research Help Desk, Radford University
01.2020 - 05.2020
  • Assisted patrons with research and technology-related inquiries.
  • Supported library staff in delivering high-quality academic services.

Education

Doctorate of Occupational Therapy - OTD

Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA
05.2026

Bachelor of Science - Human Development, Minor in Disabilities Studies

Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA
05.2023

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Radford University
Radford, VA
05.2020

Skills

  • Professional Skills: Time management, attention to detail, adaptability, organization, client-centered care, advocacy, interpersonal communication
  • Technical Skills: Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace

Certification

  • Poster Accepted: Virginia Occupational Therapy Association (VOTA) Annual Conference, 2025
  • Poster Accepted: Virginia Health Sciences Conference, 2025
  • Dean’s List, 2019–2022
  • Virginia Health and Safety Update Training for Child Care Staff, Jan 2022
  • Virginia Preservice Training for Child Care Staff, Jan 2022

Timeline

Assistant Teacher

Child Development Center for Learning and Research
01.2022 - 05.2023

Undergraduate Library Assistant

Research Help Desk, Radford University
01.2020 - 05.2020

Waitress

Fellini’s Restaurant
09.2015 - 06.2025

Babysitter

Childcare Provider
09.2014 - Current

Bachelor of Science - Human Development, Minor in Disabilities Studies

Virginia Tech

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Radford University

Doctorate of Occupational Therapy - OTD

Old Dominion University
KATHERINE E. PETERSON