Reflection: Qualitative Paper, OCCT 523

For this assignment we conducted a qualitative research project in a group of four

students. We selected the topic of The Experience of Homesickness and Identifying Coping
Strategies within First Year Occupational Therapy Students at Touro University, Nevada. This
was an excellent topic because it allowed us to understand what some of our classmates who
moved from out of state experienced adapting not only to graduate life but also to living away
from their families and support networks. The topic also brought some tears to the eyes of some
of our classmates as we interviewed them and they shared their stories.
Identifying coping strategies that were helpful to students was valuable information that
we gained and shared in our presentation, in particular with Oasis, a division within Touro
University that offers academic and emotional support to students. We found that Oasis had
already implemented some of these strategies, such as offering an Orientation meeting prior to
the start of classes, as well as stress management courses and other resources. Additionally, we
found other strategies that Oasis could implement in order to help students in future cohorts.