4 answers
Abasiakama
Student
Denton, Texas
1
Question
Updated
128 views
What type of relevant experience would stand out on my grad school applications Work or academic?
I am an undergraduate sophomore at the University of North Texas and I am an Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology major. I am also an immigrant with immigrant parents from Nigeria. I have a strong desire to help others and I am currently a research assistant in my college's speech and hearing clinic. I want to learn more on what I can do now to make my graduate experience worthwhile so I can be an empathetic and adequate clinician.
Login to comment
4 answers
Sasha Planchon
Marketing & Strategy
7
Answers
Marlborough, Massachusetts
Updated
Sasha’s Answer
It really depends on the program, and it’s definitely worth reaching out to the admissions department to ask. Many programs look for candidates who can bring a unique or diverse perspective to the classroom. Grad school was the first time I truly felt like I was learning for the sake of learning—people weren’t there because they had to be, but because they wanted to be. The focus shifted from chasing grades to engaging with the material. From my own experience applying to grad schools, I found that having some work experience was incredibly valuable. Having real-world experience gave me the ability to contribute practical insights and examples that went beyond what any textbook could offer. It added depth to class discussions and helped me connect theory to practice in a more meaningful way. I noticed my peers who didn't have that exprience struggled to contribute to discussions and were more speculative in their contributions.
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Abasiakama
Susan Felsenfeld
Speech-language pathologist (retired)
4
Answers
Fort Myers, Florida
Updated
Susan’s Answer
Hello Abasiakama,
I can tell by your question that you are well on your way to fostering the skills you will need to become an outstanding SLP. Let me focus on the admissions process, as I think others have given you great advice on skills you can foster. First, let me emphasize that your unique background as an immigrant from Nigeria gives you a perspective that will be an asset in your graduate program. When you write your essay, which most programs require, I would suggest that you tell your personal story. Your desire to be an empathetic (and evidence-based) future clinician is something you should also discuss.
I have served on SLP graduate Admissions committees at several institutions. Your work as a research assistant is a real plus that will set you apart from many other students. I also agree that obtaining either volunteer or paid experiences working with people with disabilities will be enriching for you and will be viewed favorably by the admissions committee. Keep up your grades and prepare for your GREs. These indicators, for better or worse, continue to be key factors in applicant rankings. I can't imagine you will have much trouble getting accepted into the program of your choice. SLP is a great profession. Let me be among the first to welcome you into it.
I can tell by your question that you are well on your way to fostering the skills you will need to become an outstanding SLP. Let me focus on the admissions process, as I think others have given you great advice on skills you can foster. First, let me emphasize that your unique background as an immigrant from Nigeria gives you a perspective that will be an asset in your graduate program. When you write your essay, which most programs require, I would suggest that you tell your personal story. Your desire to be an empathetic (and evidence-based) future clinician is something you should also discuss.
I have served on SLP graduate Admissions committees at several institutions. Your work as a research assistant is a real plus that will set you apart from many other students. I also agree that obtaining either volunteer or paid experiences working with people with disabilities will be enriching for you and will be viewed favorably by the admissions committee. Keep up your grades and prepare for your GREs. These indicators, for better or worse, continue to be key factors in applicant rankings. I can't imagine you will have much trouble getting accepted into the program of your choice. SLP is a great profession. Let me be among the first to welcome you into it.
Mary Kate Philbin
Speech Language Pathologist
1
Answer
Oak Lawn, Illinois
Updated
Mary Kate’s Answer
You're already on the right track. Being an empathetic clinician involves mindfulness, being open to feedback, and asking tough questions. Clinicians are lifelong learners, always picking up new knowledge from patients, professors, colleagues, or personal experiences. Humility and a willingness to learn are essential for growth in this field and will help you become an excellent clinician. Working as a research assistant, gaining more observation experience, and taking classes or CEUs that focus on clinical judgment and reasoning are also very helpful as you develop as a clinician. Good luck!
Lynne Stevens
Speech Language Pathologist
4
Answers
Silver Spring, Maryland
Updated
Lynne’s Answer
Hi Abasiakana,
I would suggest that you work hard to keep your grades in the above average range. Ask your professors questions when you don't understand. Collaborate with other students in your program.
Graduate school programs are very competitive so find a graduate program that best suits your wants, financial and cultural needs.
I would also suggest that you get involved in or volunteer time with community based programs that will allow you to engage with children and adults with communication/ language and other disabilities.
As a supervisor of graduate level students, I appreciate the experiences that my students have with working with people outside of the classroom. Those experiences genuinely foster compassion and empathy with children and adults.
I would suggest that you work hard to keep your grades in the above average range. Ask your professors questions when you don't understand. Collaborate with other students in your program.
Graduate school programs are very competitive so find a graduate program that best suits your wants, financial and cultural needs.
I would also suggest that you get involved in or volunteer time with community based programs that will allow you to engage with children and adults with communication/ language and other disabilities.
As a supervisor of graduate level students, I appreciate the experiences that my students have with working with people outside of the classroom. Those experiences genuinely foster compassion and empathy with children and adults.
Thank you so much, Mrs. Stevens, I greatly value this information!
Abasiakama