The National Student Speech, Language, and Hearing Association (NSSLHA) provides both undergraduate and graduate students interested in Speech-Language Pathology or Audiology with a support system that encourages the pursuit of these professions.
Monmouth University launched its Speech-Language Pathology master’s program in 2014, and since then there has been an increased spark of interest in the field of study amongst undergraduates.
The program’s rigorous curriculum, implementation of clinical experience, research opportunities, and experienced faculty has deemed it to be under “pre-accreditation” status by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
This status signifies that the program has met the standards issued by ASHA. Although the SLP master’s program is becoming nationally recognized, many undergraduate students are uncertain of where to inquire information about this particular field of study.
As an undergraduate student that is interested in pursuing a career in Speech-Language Pathology, it’s normal to be lost as to where to gather information. All the undergraduate prerequisite courses for graduate school were offered online, and advisors did not know much information about the master’s program.
After becoming a member of NSSLHA, members have have the ability to grow in knowledge about the area of study. From guest speakers that are actual working SLPs to speaking with current graduate students has furthered hopes of becoming an SLP.
Dr. Elisabeth Mllawski, MS, CCC- SLP said, “This club gives students the opportunity to network, gives undergrads the ability to learn about grad school, and gives back to the community as well.”
This chapter will have the same effect on many other undergraduates that are interested in becoming Speech-Language Pathologists. At NSSLHA meetings, hopeful SLPs and Audiologists will be able to have a glimpse of what life during graduate school and after will entail in these professions.
Lucia Bailey, a sophomore health studies student shared how being a member of NSSLHA has positively impacted her, “The association has definitely made me feel better about becoming an SLP. The girls in NSSLHA are so sweet and really motivate you to keep going, even when the classes become challenging. Also, the association has opened my eyes to what the next few years will look like as a student pursing the field of speech-language pathology.”
Every other Friday at the University’s Graduate Facility on Monmouth Park Corporate Center located on the westbound side of Route 36 there are NSSHLA meetings at 10 a.m.
Become a part of an organization that has chapters located across the country to help facilitate the growth of future professionals interested in treating communicative disorders.
Lindsay Spector, a graduate SLP student and recruitment chair for the NSSLHA says, “As a grad student, it’s great to have a place to learnoutside of the classroom. NSSLHA is an amazing resource to learn more about what is going on in the world of speech language pathology and audiology from professionals who are currently treating clients in every part of the field. For undergrads, joining would be a great opportunity to get a taste of what life could look like as a speech language pathologist or audiologist. It is also a great resume builder for graduate school!”
Have an extracurricular activity that will not only impress future employers but also will leave an impression on you. Make connections, memories, and grow in knowledge by becoming a member of the National Student Speech, Language, and Hearing Association. Contact Lindsay Spector, NSSLHA recruitment chair at s1110718@monmouth.edu to inquire more information about becoming a member. The next meeting will be on Friday, October 28th.
If you are in pursuit of becoming a future SLP or audiologists, NSSLHA will provide you with the confidence and support to continue on this particular path of study that will enable you to touch lives of many by aiding them in rediscovering their voice.
PHOTO COURTESY of orgsync
