Alyssa Farrell works at St. Catherine University as an Assistant Professor and Academic Fieldwork Coordinator in the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program.

Alyssa has been a practicing OT since 2009. She graduated with a Master's of Science degree in Occupational Therapy in 2009 from Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids, MI.

For the first 7 years of her career, she worked in various acute care hospital settings focusing her research on early mobilization in the ICU. She transitioned into an outpatient pediatric clinic in December 2015 until December 2019 before accepting a full time Assistant Professor position at St. Catherine University in December 2019.

Prior to her full time position with St. Catherine, she was an adjunct professor for the OTA Online program from December 2015-December 2019. During that time, her passion for education and student interaction grew! She is now the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator for both the MN and VA cohorts in the OTA Online Program. She enjoys supporting students as they transition from didactic course work into the clinical setting. She also enjoys establishing relationships and partnerships with various health systems and therapy clinics across the nation!

Alyssa's most recent research is focused on emotional intelligence and its impact on success during Level II FW. She serves on various committees at the university and also has a strong interest in incorporating simulation experiences into healthcare education. It is also Alyssa's desire to eventually focus research on student engagement via social organizations such as SOTAA as well as develop a further understanding of accommodation needs of students in educational, clinical and professional settings.

Alyssa resides in Montrose, MN and has 3 beautiful children- Kayden, Grayson, and Halyen. With her husband Adam, they enjoy taking their family camping and enjoy spending time in nature. She personally enjoy running, camping, cooking, and continually learning.