Cole Chapman ’27 on Discovering Passion and Purpose in Healthcare

For Cole Chapman ’27, the journey to discovering his ideal career path was anything but conventional. Chapman initially sought to study literature, but his academic interests shifted when he became interested in the health sciences, particularly occupational therapy.

Eventually, Chapman realized in biology classes that his interests and desire to help people would be better served by a career in the health sciences. Further yet, a significant discovery of this budding passion was made when Chapman first recalled being moved by an occupational therapist in a movie he watched, commenting, "I can’t remember the name of a movie I watched once, but this man had gotten a vertebrae injury and was treated for it. I thought to myself, ‘Who is the person who teaches you how to walk again?’ I thought it was really cool.”

That curiosity eventually led him to Westfield State University, where he is now majoring in health sciences with an occupational therapy assistant concentration. Housed in the University's Health Sciences Department, the program gives students practical experience in a variety of settings, such as schools, nursing homes, rehabilitation facilities, and hospitals. To help people regain their independence, students work with occupational therapists to create and carry out individualized treatment plans that include patient-centered techniques, adaptive equipment, and exercises. Following graduation, Chapman plans to pursue a master's degree and become a fully-fledged occupational therapist.

Westfield State’s Health Sciences program stands out by preparing students for a modern healthcare landscape that prioritizes wellness and prevention. With a focus on connecting clinical and community care, the program incorporates disease prevention, wellness theory, and an instructional approach that emphasizes effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. 

For Chapman in particular, the transition to Westfield State has been a rewarding experience, where he credits the faculty and his advisor for their enthusiasm and support. “All of the professors here are excited about what they do,” he added. “In moving forward, I feel as though I could work in the healthcare field for the rest of my life. Especially knowing that I somewhat made a difference for somebody else.”

Chapman encourages new community members to take advantage of the opportunities on campus, echoing earlier sentiments about the warmth and quality of the University’s dedication to their students. “There are so many of them,” he said. “Depending on what you’re into or what you like, there’s certainly someone who wants to help you, and especially in your classes. They really stand out, so make the connections. It will definitely be good for you.”