Emily Murphy, a Master of Occupational Therapy student in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine, received a $5,000 student stipend from the Arc of Washington Trust Fund.
Murphy was one of five students selected from 35 applicants across Washington state. The award recognizes students committed to building careers that support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
"I was honored to receive the Arc of Washington Student Stipend Award, and I'm incredibly grateful for the support and encouragement it represents," Murphy said. "Scholarships like this allow students like me to focus on becoming compassionate, evidence-based occupational therapists while easing some of the financial burden of graduate school. I hope to pay that generosity forward by making a meaningful impact in the lives of my future clients and the communities I serve."
A Washington native, Murphy earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Washington State University, graduating cum laude. Her interest in occupational therapy grew from watching her older brother benefit from therapy and seeing the impact compassionate, individualized care can have on both clients and families.
"Watching his progress helped me realize that occupational therapy is about so much more than rehabilitation," Murphy said. "It's about helping people participate in the activities that matter most to them. That focus on individualized care and meaningful participation is what drew me to the profession and continues to inspire me as I learn and grow."
Murphy is currently exploring interests in inpatient rehabilitation, school-based therapy, and assistive technology while remaining open to discovering where she is the best fit. “I chose occupational therapy because it combines science, creativity, and meaningful relationships in a way that truly changes people’s lives,” she said.
Outside the classroom, Murphy enjoys spending time on Lake Washington, skiing, baking, attending concerts, and exploring new coffee shops with family and friends. After graduation, she plans to begin her career as an occupational therapist. “I’m excited to begin my career and eager to see where the profession takes me,” Murphy said.