ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Erin Hernandez

Erin Hernandez: An Advocate for Lifelong Learning 

Erin Hernandez, OTD, OTR, has a passion for pediatric care, research, and helping to shape the future of occupational therapy. 

As a pediatric occupational therapist, Hernandez works in outpatient and school-based pediatric settings where she treats children across a wide range of ages and diagnoses. To further her professional development in this area, Hernandez has earned certifications for Ayres Sensory Integration and to work with patients living with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Currently, she is studying for the Pediatrics Board Exam to deepen her specialization in pediatric occupational therapy.

Beyond her clinical work, Hernandez is actively engaged in research with a vision therapist. Through this collaboration, she is exploring the synergistic relationship between occupational therapy and vision therapy. Hernandez also shares her expertise as adjunct faculty at Baylor University and Bowling Green State University, where she contributes to lab instruction across various occupational therapy courses. She hopes to one day become a full-time professor for an occupational therapy program, solidifying her commitment to nurture the next generation of clinicians.

Her advice to aspiring pediatric therapists and fellow Baylor OTD alumni is simple—embrace lifelong learning.  

“Become a sponge in every opportunity,” she said. “Occupational therapy, itself, is such a vast and dynamic field. Even in specific settings, such as pediatrics, it is so important to open your heart and mind to fully serve the families you work with. Branching out and staying a lifelong learner will bring you so much more knowledge and growth, not just as an occupational therapist but as a servant leader.”