Hybrid OT Program: Is it a Good Fit for You?

Occupational therapy (OT) is a second career choice for me. I’m a wife, a mom of a very fun 3-year-old boy, I work part-time as a strength coach, and I’m an officer in the Georgia Air National Guard. Phew! Yes, I have many roles. Starting the journey of choosing an OT program is like diving into a sea of choices, each with its own mix of challenges. And hey, among all these options, stumbling upon hybrid programs? It's like finding a hidden treasure—exciting but also a bit nerve-wracking. As someone who stood at this crossroads and ultimately selected a hybrid program, I've put together a list of pros and cons based on my own journey to give you some insight into this type of program and help you determine if the hybrid approach fits your goals and lifestyle.

My school’s hybrid program consists of asynchronous online classes and mandatory on-grounds weekends. The school offers both an in-person and a hybrid MSOT program as well as an in-person OTD program. Out of all three options, the hybrid MSOT is the least expensive. As I start my second year of OT school, I’ve had time to reflect on the hybrid learning format’s several advantages. First, it provides a level of flexibility that suits my busy schedule. Attending school in person every other weekend allows me to manage required readings and homework throughout the week at my convenience, striking a balance between structured in-person classes and the flexibility of studying from home. Moreover, its accessibility factor has been a game-changer, especially for someone like me with multiple commitments. When my son needed surgery during my first semester, I could seamlessly complete readings and assignments while waiting. My coursework is accessible anytime and anywhere with my trusty laptop. This format's adaptability to different learning styles has been another major advantage for me because traditional classroom settings don't quite sync with my learning preferences. I thrive in environments that require shorter attention spans, write better while standing, and absorb information better through independent reading. This adaptability allows me to tailor my learning methods to fit perfectly with my style. Lastly, the personalized pace of hybrid learning resonates with me. While some might grasp concepts swiftly in a traditional classroom setting, I appreciate the ability to speed through material or slow down to review and process concepts at my own pace. This flexibility aligns with my fast-paced learning style, enabling me to cover multiple chapters in a day rather than being confined to a set-paced classroom environment.

While advantageous in many aspects, hybrid learning does present a set of challenges. First, adjusting to the variability in learning environments and transitioning between online and in-person formats has been a struggle for me. Adapting from studying at my own pace to participating live in classroom discussions where I might need to slow down has been quite challenging. Moreover, technical glitches have proven to be a hurdle, disrupting the flow of online sessions due to issues like internet connectivity problems, expired links, and occasional disruptions during Zoom meetings. Additionally, the hybrid format might limit social interaction, impacting collaborative learning and networking opportunities, especially for classmates balancing full-time work or parenting commitments. Nevertheless, there are efforts by student organizations to foster connections during in-person days, catering to those seeking a social outlet. Program length is another consideration because some hybrid OT programs may be longer than an in-person program. My cohort is the last one whose hybrid program is 3 years long; the upcoming cohorts’ program duration will be 2 years—the same length as the in-person format. Furthermore, managing an increased workload demands meticulous time management skills, as hybrid learning doesn't equate to reduced commitments; it's still a full-time program. For those juggling work alongside studies, the need for effective time management becomes even more crucial during fieldwork, considering the requirement to quit jobs for Level II fieldwork completion. For those who don’t work full time, going from hybrid learning to a full-time, in-person schedule during fieldwork may pose an additional challenge.

My personal journey into hybrid learning highlighted clear advantages and challenges. The standout flexibility of this format was a lifesaver amid my hectic schedule. Ultimately, while hybrid learning offers flexibility and adaptability, it also requires careful consideration. Prospective students must weigh its benefits against its challenges and consider how these align with their unique circumstances and aspirations. The success of hybrid learning depends on individual preferences, educational quality, and institutional support. I hope these insights offer clarity for those contemplating a plunge into a hybrid OT program!

Julamy Serrano Arocho is a second-year OT student at Brenau University in Georgia. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Julamy moved to the U.S. in 2015 after commissioning in the U.S. Air Force as a Nuclear Operations Officer. Currently, she continues to serve in the Georgia Air National Guard as a Logistics Officer. Julamy holds a Master’s Degree in Exercise Science—Clinical from Liberty University. Her main OT interests are aging in place and acute care. Outside of OT school, Julamy enjoys spending time with her family, exploring different outdoor parks, and watching true crime shows.