Alumni Success Story: Addison Reckard
Addison Reckard
Major: Healthcare and Business
Doctor of Occupational Therapy student, IU-Indianapolis

Why did you declare Healthcare and Business as your major?
I majored in Healthcare and Business at Butler because I felt it would position me for success and provide the foundation I need to potentially open my own practice in the future or be in a hospital leadership role. Taking healthcare courses equipped me for my post-grad program, while the business classes offered essential knowledge that complements my healthcare background.

What is your current position and how did Butler help prepare you for this role? I’m currently in my second year of a doctoral program in Occupational Therapy Practice at IU-Indianapolis. This year marks my final phase of coursework before I begin my fieldwork rotations in May 2025. Butler truly prepared me for this program through its academic offerings and extracurricular activities. During my time there, I successfully navigated challenging courses and engaged in leadership opportunities that equipped me for my future. I developed strong communication and listening skills, honed my critical thinking abilities, and built a solid foundation for becoming an empathetic healthcare professional.

Who at Butler inspired you the most and why?
Dr. Peak inspired me the most at Butler because she believed in me when I did not believe in myself. She pushed me to explore career options that I had never considered before. She never let me give up, and I am forever grateful for all of the advice and guidance she provided me and continues to provide me as a Butler alum. I know she is cheering me on, which gives me confidence!

What is your favorite part of your grad school experience?
My favorite part of my grad school experience is being able to go out on fieldwork and put all of the skills I have learned in the classroom into practice. It is fulfilling and rewarding to see the small impact I can make on patients and their families as a student and it excites me for my career as a future occupational therapist. Through my program, I have had the opportunity to conduct and present pediatric oncology research, volunteer at a cost-free clinic working on an interdisciplinary team, obtain a fellowship at Riley, and serve on the Indiana Occupational Therapy Association Capitol Day committee working on advocacy and legislative topics.

What are your long-term career goals?
I have many goals and directions I can see myself pursuing as an occupational therapist, so it is hard to pick one. Working at Riley Hospital for Children has always been a dream and goal of mine, and through my experiences, I have found a love for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) setting. An occupational therapist working in the NICU requires specialized training and years of experience and something that I would like to work toward. Additional long-term goals of mine are to start an LLC and do contracting work on the side, potentially be a professor, and eventually hold a hospital leadership role.

What advice do you have for current Butler students?
My biggest piece of advice for current Butler students is to get involved, build connections, and, most importantly, enjoy the journey. Immersing yourself into the amazing Butler community through networking with professors, peers, and mentors and collaborating with individuals of all backgrounds will set you up for success no matter what field you choose. Do not be afraid to change your mind, challenge yourself, and be curious. It is all a part of your journey, and no two paths will be the same.