Faculty in Residence
Birnkrant Residential College
Associate Professor of Clinical Occupational Therapy
Chan Division of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy
Email: uyeshiro@med.usc.edu
Phone: 213.821.6359
Education:
Doctor of Occupational Therapy, USC Chan Division of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy
Master’s Degree, Occupational Therapy, USC Chan Division of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy
Bachelor of Arts Degree, Psychology, University of Southern California
Bio + Fun Facts:
Dr. Uyeshiro Simon is an Associate Professor in the USC Chan Division of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy. She teaches OT-100 THRIVE: Foundations of Wellbeing, a course created by undergraduate students that seeks to provide a source of connection, self-reflection, and community through learning about how people can live thriving lives in college and in life. Dr. U also teaches OT-101 Caring for Your Self, where students learn about the science behind habits and various aspects of self-care through applying the concepts to their own lives. In Birnkrant, Dr. U’s main goal is to create a sense of belonging for residents by building community, celebrating diversity, and bringing learning outside of the classroom. She hosts “Birnkrant Family Dinners,” which are dorm-wide dinners in the EVK Private Dining Room with specialty menus and fun activities. She also hosts monthly “BK Supper Club” dinners in her home, where guest faculty and staff from across campus discuss identity, struggle, culture, and current events. In addition, Dr. U hosts specialty events to explore Los Angeles, celebrate diverse identities, or give back to the larger community. Some of her signature events include a trip to Little Tokyo, a screening of the award-winning movie Carol in honor of National Coming Out Day, a Veterans’ Day appreciation event, and a celebration of Black History Month. Dr. U lives in Birnkrant with her partner Scott (who also works at USC), their two daughters, and their (big) dog Sophia.