Following the productive discussion initiated in our previous meeting on “Why should I consider a Ph.D.?”, the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA) recently hosted another enlightening session. This time, the focus shifted towards understanding the appeal and implications of pursuing a career in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP). Three remarkable Speech-Language Pathologists, Kristin Benjamin, Amy Lapsis, and Hanna Weinstein, graciously shared their journey into the SLP field, providing valuable insights into their decision-making processes and career paths.
Each guest speaker delved into their unique experiences and the pivotal moments that led them to become Speech-Language Pathologists. The session was vibrant with curiosity, as students eagerly engaged with the speakers, posing thought-provoking questions that many prospective SLPs ponder:
1. Employment Settings and Client Demographics: Students inquired about the various settings the SLPs are currently working in and the age groups they frequently interact with. This question aimed to shed light on the diverse opportunities and client populations that SLPs can work with.
2. Unexpected Challenges Post-Graduation: A significant point of discussion was centered on the aspects of their professional life that graduate school might not have fully prepared them for. This topic was crucial for providing prospective SLPs with a realistic view of the challenges that lie ahead and the resilience required to overcome them.
3. Wishful Prior Knowledge: Lastly, students were curious about any knowledge or insights the speakers wished they had acquired before entering the field. Understanding this could greatly benefit current students by highlighting areas of personal and professional growth that are crucial for a successful career in SLP.
These discussions are a regular feature of UConn NSSLHA meetings, reflecting the commitment to fostering a supportive and informative community for students interested in speech, language, and hearing sciences. Through such interactive sessions, students are equipped with the knowledge and inspiration needed to navigate their future careers confidently.
A regular night at a NSSLHA meeting is an opportunity to be part of a community that is as committed to learning as it is to supporting each other’s professional journeys.
