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What is the most rewarding moment as a Speech-Language Pathologist and what set the seal in choosing this career?
Im currently the most interested in SLP but PEDS occupational therapy is also calling my name! #Spring26
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Tamina Crook
pediatric occupational therapy assistant; student
60
Answers
Greensboro, North Carolina
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Tamina’s Answer
I can't speak from the perspective of being a Speech-Language Pathologist, but I have worked alongside many incredible SLPs throughout my career in the schools as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant and now during my Master's in Occupational Therapy. One thing I've learned is that both SLPs and pediatric OTs have the privilege of celebrating life-changing moments with children and their families. What confirmed my decision to stay in occupational therapy was seeing children accomplish things they once thought were impossible—whether it was learning to write their name, becoming more independent with daily tasks, successfully participating in the classroom, or simply gaining the confidence to try something new. Those small victories often become huge milestones for the child and their family. If you're deciding between SLP and pediatric OT, I'd encourage you to shadow both professions in a few different settings. They work closely together but have different roles, and seeing those differences firsthand is the best way to discover which career aligns with your interests, strengths, and the type of impact you want to have. No matter which path you choose, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in children's lives every day.
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Jeffrey’s Answer
My wife is a speech-language pathologist, and she really enjoys how flexible her job is. During grad school and the start of her career, she worked with clients in hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and private practices. This helped her discover the work setting she loves the most and fit her job to her life, all while helping many different people.
The only challenge is needing a master's degree for this career, so it's good to plan ahead for that.
The only challenge is needing a master's degree for this career, so it's good to plan ahead for that.