My internship experience at Future Makers parallels concepts and responsibilities that I would have as a future pediatric occupational therapist. At Future Makers, we hold camps, workshops, and events for children with a focus on art, mindfulness, and social-emotional learning. Many of the projects that we do are not only beneficial for gross and fine motor development, but for building resilience and creativity. The photo below shows a student learning the fundamentals of photography, capturing a moving subject using a DSLR camera. Additionally, Future Makers is dedicated to embracing neurodiversity, so we explore alternative techniques that aren’t rooted in compliance, which is when a child truly blossoms. Utilizing my academic background in psychology, I have helped synthesize research about these concepts, from Creative Educational Experiences (CEE) to respite care. Thus, having an understanding of abnormal and developmental psychology was helpful in doing so, along with knowledge about research methods.
My career goals have always involved working with children, so I am interested in this avenue. Besides the previously mentioned programming, Future Makers has also ventured into the realm of microschooling to provide alternatives to the traditional school system, which reflects the company’s emphasis on creativity, mindfulness, and neurodiversity. There are many paths that one can take to enter into this space, ranging from grant writing to programming to teaching. Each area would require their corresponding education and experience; however, dedication to nurturing children and neurodiversity is central to all roles. That being said, I would encourage all incoming interns to have an open mind and heart, so you are receptive to those whom you impact–your children, your leaders, and your peers. Humility is what turns your missteps and failures into lessons, and reframing your mindset to embrace those mistakes is the foundation for creating change.
