Jim Dennis
Multiple Companies
Stockton, CA USA
"Possible naysayers, who barely know you and who have no idea what flame is inside of you, deserve little attention."
Career Roadmap
Jim's work combines: Science, Education, and Helping People
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Westmoor High School
Bachelor's Degree
Occupational Therapy/Therapist
San Jose State University
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be an Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR):
Bachelor's Degree: Occupational Therapy/Therapist
Learn more about different paths to this career
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life has been direct
1.
I had to move away from home to go to the university that had the degree I was seeking.
2.
I was married and then had a child during my college years.
3.
I had to "work for free" for 6 months, during my internship, and then had to work at night and the weekends to pay for living expenses.
4.
I injured my knee in college and had to search for a non-invasive way to heal it.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Teachers:
There were a few professors and Occupational Therapy preceptors who felt that I might not be suited for this profession.
How I responded:
I kept my eye on the prize. I felt that regardless of what they thought or said, that I knew in my heart and soul that I had the skills to do well in this field. Possible naysayers, who barely know you and who have no idea what flame is inside of you, deserve little attention. I NEVER thought about stopping short of my goal, because a few "passersby" were not deciding to become my cheerleaders.
Experiences and challenges that shaped me
I had to take out loans and work in order to pay for my education.
I did not have anyone in my family circle who went to college, or even who encouraged me to go to college.