With foundation in research, ATSU is preparing student for success as occupational therapist
Posted: June 3, 2025
While pursuing his undergraduate degree at Brigham Young University, A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) Doctor of Occupational Therapy program student Kadyn Davis, OTD, ’26, learned the value and importance of research.
When deciding where to pursue his doctor of occupational therapy degree, Davis sought a place where he could continue to participate in research studies. He found that with ATSU-ASHS.
“One reason I chose ATSU was that I love the emphasis and recognition the school has in research and evidence-based practice,” he said.
Davis, from Snowflake, Arizona, hasn’t been disappointed, and says the University is setting him up for success.
“One of my long-term goals after I graduate is to eventually establish my own pediatric outpatient clinic near my hometown,” he said. “I am from a more rural part of Arizona where there are not a lot of OTs. I want to provide occupational therapy services to help address the needs of the people in that area.
“ATSU is helping prepare for my career in showing me the value of holistic and evidence-care, especially for those of the minority populations and groups. There is a lot that has been done, but there is so much more that needs to be done, and I want to contribute to it.”
Davis is highly involved in campus activities, serving as social media marketer for the Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA), student coordinator with the ATSU Expo, member of the Social Justice and Garden clubs, and even coaching flag football.
Additionally, Davis serves as a student ambassador.
“I wanted to become a student ambassador to not only advocate for ATSU, but to provide how ATSU has helped me in achieving my goal of becoming an occupational therapist. One unique asset that I share is that I transferred from the OT master’s program to the OT doctorate program. Combined with my experiences with the student organizations I am part of, I share the events that have led to my decision to change programs.
“My time at ATSU has made me a better person and I want to share how it has with others.”
Outside of classes, Davis remains busy as a married father of two. His family life is another reason why ATSU-ASHS was a perfect fit.
“Another reason why I chose ATSU was that it was accommodating to my needs and the needs of my family. ATSU is in a family-friendly area with access to plenty of resources for a college family to thrive in. I remember when my family and I visited ATSU for the first time, my kids loved it. The staff was friendly, my children felt safe, and I felt welcome. Ever since then, ATSU has been like a second home to me,” he said.
“My family is my joy and inspiration that empowers me to get through school. Whenever I am not studying or in school, I try to spend as much time as possible as I can with my wife and kids.”
He also enjoys long-distance running, saying the training helps him maintain both his physical and mental health, and DJing weddings, charities, conferences, and other events.
On campus, Davis has a strong, supportive community that’s with him every step of the way as he pursues his degree.
“At ATSU, there is always someone there to help you out. Each professor is willing to go out of their way to help their students, even if it just means to listen to their concerns. You learn to make friends real fast because there are always projects we are working on together,” he said. “The classes are long, but being with friends makes it worth it.”