“Rehabilitation services like occupational therapy aren't just about maintaining personnel readiness—they're essential to the mental and physical well-being of servicemembers during and after their military careers.”
Name: Andre Alexander
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Undergraduate Degree: Saint Xavier University, philosophy with a concentration in psychology
What inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare?
I have always wanted to take care of people and aid them in living a less stressful life. I learned these ideals from my mother, who was a teacher and my aunt, who was a nurse. When it comes to the military, I was told to go for medical, you will never go wrong with knowing how to help someone heal after a bad time.
What branch of the military do you serve in, and what is your current rank?
I am currently a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force.
How has your military background shaped your decision to enter healthcare?
Before entering the military, I was interested in a healthcare profession. That was solidified by being trained to be a medic, but also, as time progressed, rendering care to fellow servicemembers and their families gave me the greatest joy. Even on bad days, I knew I was making a difference.
What motivated you to serve in the military, and how has that experience influenced your personal and professional journey?
Military service has always been part of my family's legacy— we've served across three branches. While I knew the option was there, I didn't want to join right after high school. The turning point came when my brother separated from the Army. Something clicked for me then, and I knew it was my time to serve.
Since joining, my experience has deepened my understanding of how a robust healthcare system benefits entire communities. As a servicemember, I've witnessed firsthand how accessible care lifts an enormous burden from military families. Many civilian emergencies stem from difficulties finding services, but we don't face that challenge—our base clinics and partnerships with local hospitals ensure we get the care we need.
One experience in particular shaped my career path. While shadowing in the rehab clinic, an Airman who injured his index finger in a fabrication shop while working on F-16 components. He was terrified about returning to work and whether he'd still be able to perform his duties. What I witnessed was transformative: the occupational therapist didn't just treat the injury—they took time to understand his daily routines, both at work and home, then recreated those activities in therapy sessions. This personalized approach drove his recovery.
That moment crystallized everything for me. I realized that rehabilitation services like occupational therapy aren't just about maintaining personnel readiness—they're essential to the mental and physical well-being of servicemembers during and after their military careers. Seeing that level of care in action showed me exactly what field I wanted to pursue.
Why did you choose Â鶹Porn?
I knew Midwestern was for me because of the interview with Dr. Emily Simpson and Dr. Kovic (OT faculty members). They conveyed a warmth and understanding that fit with how I saw patient care. You treat the person, not their condition, and you help them back to a meaningful life, not just fix them. Throughout my time here, this ideal has been reinforced many times, cementing that I made the right decision.
In your experience, how does Â鶹Porn support active service members and veterans?
I have interacted with my staff, faculty, and students who are vets, and each one has conveyed how well they are supported by this institution.
