Always an overachiever, ‘21 alumna Emily Bruinsma couldn’t choose just one area to study in college.
Bruinsma earned bachelor’s degrees in psychology and gerontology, with minors in biomedical sciences and diversity studies.
“While at Missouri State, I was very involved in Phi Eta Sigma and served in many different roles,” Bruinsma said. “It allowed me to get involved on and off campus and serve the local Springfield community.”
After graduation, Emily enrolled in the Doctoral program in Occupational Therapy at the University of South Dakota.
After graduating from MSU, Bruinsma was awarded the Thomas Arkle Clark Scholar of the Year Award.
About the award
The award, named after the first national president of Phi Eta Sigma, was established in 2006.
The $10,000 Clark Award is presented annually to the applicant who, in the judgment of the scholarship committee, best exemplifies the ideals of Phi Eta Sigma.
“The award is based on service, leadership and academic achievement,” Bruinsma said. “I was able to achieve success in all of these areas at Missouri State which helped me earn this scholarship.”
Future plans
After graduate school, Emily is hoping to get a job as an occupational therapist specializing in pediatrics.
“I am leaning toward working in an out-patient setting right now, but that could change after my clinicals,” said Bruinsma.