Anita Whitner - Student Blog 4/16/25

Hey everyone!

 It’s hard to believe, but the Bakers Dozen (Spring 2025 cohort) is already wrapping up our first semester here at IIOP! As we head into finals, we’ve been reflecting on everything we’ve accomplished over the past few months—and it’s been a packed (but exciting!) start to our journey in O&P.

We recently finished our Gait course, where we had hands-on experience with some amazing technology, including RunDNA, Gait Map, the Balance Tutor, and two of IIOP’s newest additions: the Andago and the C-Mill. We also wrapped up Intro to Lab Skills, where we got familiar with the tools, materials, and machines we’ll be using in future fabrication projects. Right now, we’re in Clinical Evaluation Tools, learning key assessment skills that will prepare us for working with patients next semester.

One of the highlights this semester was touring the local RCAI facility, where we got a firsthand look at how off-the-shelf orthotic and prosthetic products are developed and produced. It was an awesome opportunity to see how classroom concepts translate into real-world applications.

Outside of class, our cohort has also been active in the community where we have volunteered at events like the Special Olympics and an adaptive archery tournament. These experiences have been incredibly rewarding and have reminded us of the real impact orthotics and prosthetics can have in people’s lives.

We’ve also been soaking up everything Tampa has to offer such as, beach days, pickleball games, sports events, and lots of great memories together. We’re especially looking forward to next semester, when we’ll receive our white coats and begin our first patient interactions!

Stay tuned—there’s so much more to come from the Bakers Dozen!

 — Spring 2025 Cohort