Abstract
After 6 years of practice as an occupational therapist in Austria, the author completed a postprofessional Master's degree program at the Boston School of Occupational Therapy, Tufts University, USA. Incentives, prerequisites for these studies, and a personal perspective on the educational, professional, and cultural differences and treasures are introduced to the reader. The integration of science and research in individualized, activity-focused, client-centered practice meets at the base of occupational therapy philosophy: To see the person as a whole within his or her environment, to offer meaningful activity so that the best possible quality of life can be achieved.