Paola Esquivel is pursuing a PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh and is a Fulbright Scholar. She graduated as an occupational therapist from the Universidad Nacional de Colombia and completed a master's degree in Rehabilitation Science at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada.
During her master's degree, she was part of a research project about the use of Lego robots and computer programs to improve the academic performance of children with physical disabilities. After graduating, she went to Italy, where she worked with children with disabilities in community and school settings.
What drew you to rehabilitation science?
I wanted to make a tangible impact and I like the interdisciplinary nature of the work. I get to collaborate with engineers, physical therapists, teachers and other professionals to make a positive impact on the lives of people with disabilities.
Give us your 60 Second Research Pitch?
My project is to develop and online smart speaker training intervention for people with physical or visual disabilities. We are creating an online course to support technology adoption and the functional performance of people with disabilities using smart speakers.
We are trying to conduct efficacy assessments not only on persons with disabilities but also providers to support their practice. We are creating learning activities that are specific to people with disabilities and creating a portal that condenses the information in one place to make it easier to find and access.
What brought you to Pitt?
Pitt has a well-known Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology. In assistive technology, this lab is known around the world through their work, publications, and events.
Do you have any advice for undergraduates considering a career in assistive technology?
Seek out research opportunities! Do internships and volunteer work and any other practical experience that you can get so you can have the chance to see real world problems with all different kinds of patients. They will inspire you!