Guide to AOTA's INSPIRE 2025 Annual Conference & Expo for students, new graduates, and first-time attendees
What to Expect
The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) INSPIRE 2025 Annual Conference & Expo is guaranteed to be an engaging and fulfilling experience for students, new graduates, and attendees, especially those experiencing it for the first time. The Conference brings together students, practitioners, and memorable leaders in the field of occupational therapy to offer a unique experience that will expand your knowledge and skills. Prepare to experience research poster presentations, short-course sessions, hands-on workshops, professional development opportunities, networking events, and displays of recent innovations and tools in the field of occupational therapy.
How to Take Advantage of Your Time at the Conference
To make the most out of the AOTA INSPIRE 2025 Annual Conference & Expo, it's important to plan ahead. The full schedule for the event can be found on AOTA’s website as well as on the AOTA INSPIRE Annual Conference & Expo application in the App Store. The app is updated hourly so it has the most up-to-date information. The event consists of educational sessions, workshops, an Exhibit hall, the Eleanor Clarke Slagle Lecture, two Presidential Addresses, award ceremonies, and more, all of which you don’t want to miss! Review the Conference schedule and select break-out sessions to attend that align with your overall interests, passions, and career goals. Sessions are tailored to specific areas of occupational therapy to provide attendees with insight and knowledge on new research and unique experiences. Make sure you visit the Expo hall, where you can learn about and explore new tools, gadgets, technologies, strategies, and resources that may benefit your education and practice. Finally, to take full advantage of your time at the Conference, attending the Eleanor Clarke Slagle Lecture is a great way to gain valuable insights by hearing from a groundbreaking leader in the field.
How to Make Connections
There is no need to worry about making connections because the AOTA INSPIRE 2025 Annual Conference & Expo offers a multitude of opportunities to connect with practitioners, educators, students, and leaders in the field. When attending sessions, introduce yourself to others and ask questions. Speakers have worked hard on their presentations, and they love to share their work and answer questions as well as make connections with attendees who share similar interests and passions. After the Conference, follow up with professionals you meet through LinkedIn or email to reinforce these connections. It can be as simple as engaging in informal conversations with experienced professionals to build connections that will enhance your career opportunities and learning experience.
How to Make an Impression
To make an unforgettable impression, take time to engage in conversations with attendees, speakers, exhibitors, and professionals. Be confident, authentic, genuine, and courteous. Ask thoughtful and curious questions during sessions, share your perspectives on topics at hand, demonstrate active listening, maintain eye contact, and have a growth mindset. For example, ask questions such as: “What were some of the challenges you faced during data collection, and how did you address them?” “What are the next steps for research in this area, and are there any questions that remain unanswered?” “What inspired you to choose this particular topic?” It’s important to go into this experience with an open and growth mindset through dedication, effort, and learning to better your skills, practice, and experience. To stand out amongst others, bring an eagerness and willingness to learn while also showcasing your passion and dedication to occupational therapy. Dress in comfortable business attire to reflect your respect and interest in the event; it's a long day and you want to look and feel your best. You will make a lasting impression that can enhance and support future opportunities as a student and practitioner.
The AOTA INSPIRE 2025 Annual Conference & Expo is one of the largest networking and learning opportunities for students, new graduates, first-time attendees, and practitioners. Preparing in advance will support your overall experience and help you feel inspired and connected at the Conference. I attended last year as a student and it was an experience I will never forget; it was a whirlwind of knowledge, networking, and learning in areas I was passionate about and new areas. I am so excited to attend again and experience the Conference as a practitioner.
Sabine Hasan, OTD, OTR/L, is a Quinnipiac University Doctor of Occupational Therapy graduate. She currently works in the school setting with students ranging from preschool to high school. Sabine is presenting her doctoral capstone at the AOTA INSPIRE 2025 Annual Conference & Expo entitled “Creation of an After-School OT-Based Mindfulness Curriculum Focusing on Self-Regulation Through Staff Education.”