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What are the most important things I can start doing right now as a college student to prepare for a career as a speech-language pathologist working with pediatrics ?

I am currently a college student planning to major in speech-language pathology, and I am especially interested in working with children in the future. I want to make sure I'm taking the right steps now to prepare myself academically and gain relevant experience. I also work while in school, so I am trying to balance everything while still setting myself up for success.

college spring26 pediatrics speech-pathology
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Sreedevi’s Answer

Start volunteering with NGOs that help children with developmental delays. This will give you valuable experience and a chance to apply what you learned in college.
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Jean’s Answer

Stay in touch with your academic advisor to help you plan your courses. Consider volunteering with the Special Olympics. Reach out to school-based speech and language pathologists to see if you can observe their work. Ask about volunteering with speech therapists at local schools. Mentoring college students is something I enjoy, and I believe many others do too. The more experience you gain with speech and language students, the easier it will be to understand your studies because you'll have real-life examples to learn from.
Thank you comment icon Great answer, Jean! Katie Schwartz, CCC-SLP
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Melinda G ’s Answer

Shadow any SLP that will have you! Schools, long term care facilities, hospitals, rehab clinics..
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Grace’s Answer

Hi there, would you consider changing your current job to better match your future goals? You might explore roles as a teacher aide or in NGOs. You could also look into respite care positions in local facilities or with families nearby. Posting on Facebook that you're studying speech and language therapy might attract families seeking extra help.

When I was in university, lecturers who still practiced clinically would connect students with families, with consent. Don't overlook the option of doing admin work for a speech and language therapy business or Facebook groups. This can help you learn about the common questions and needs in the field, and it can often be done remotely, saving you travel time.

If you need help finding Facebook groups, search for "Special Interest Groups" or "Community of Practice" related to your interests.
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