The master of occupational therapy student was initially drawn to a variety of career paths —  including physical therapy, teaching and business — before a relative encouraged her to explore occupational therapy. 

“I loved how the OT profession helps individuals get back to what they are passionate about in an evidence-based, yet creative way,” Biedrzycki said. 

That passion led her to Quinnipiac, where she found a program in the School of Health Sciences that challenged and supported her academically while offering opportunities beyond the classroom.

“I chose Quinnipiac because of its strong reputation and how developed the occupational therapy program is,” she said. “Many professors have written textbooks or contributed to areas of OT used across the country, so it really feels like a blessing to learn from them firsthand.”

During her time at Quinnipiac, Biedrzycki became deeply involved in campus life, taking on leadership roles that shaped her both personal and professional growth. She served as a peer catalyst, participated in the Student Occupational Therapy Association and held a leadership role as a resident assistant in the Occupational Therapy Living-Learning Community.

Out of all her experiences, her time as a resident assistant had the most lasting impact.

“I learned so much about leadership, planning and community building,” Biedrzycki said. “But what meant the most were the relationships I built with residents and staff.”

Biedrzycki’s involvement also extended beyond campus.

Through the Albert Schweitzer Institute, she attended the Youth Nobel Peace Summit in South Korea, where she collaborated with students from around the world on a Youth Declaration of Peace.

The experience broadened her perspective on the role occupational therapy can play in global conversations surrounding equity and advocacy.

“It showed me that meaningful change begins with collaboration,” she stated. “It also helped me realize that occupational therapy does not have to be confined to the medical model.”

Her commitment to professional growth continued through her role representing Quinnipiac in the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Assembly of Student Delegates. In this position, Biedrzycki connected with students across the country and engaged in discussions about advocacy and the future of the profession.

Biedrzycki will begin fieldwork to explore her interests in mental health and pediatrics, with long-term plans to pursue a doctorate in occupational therapy. 

She credits Quinnipiac with preparing her for the next step.

“The program gave me a strong foundation across so many areas,” she said. “It prepared me to be a well-rounded therapist and helped me discover what I’m passionate about.”

As she reflects on her Quinnipiac experience, Biedrzycki points to both her personal growth and the connections she built along the way, many of which began in the OT LLC and continue today.

If she could offer advice to incoming students, it would be to stay open to new opportunities while prioritizing personal well-being.

“Be curious, ask questions and take advantage of opportunities,” she said. “But also remember its okay to say to and take care of yourself.”

Looking back, Biedrzycki sums up her time at Quinnipiac in a few words, “personal growth with exciting turns at every corner.”