Advice From professors

As a college student there are many overwhelming emotions that go on in our minds and lives in general. We may think that we go through these emotions alone, but that isn't the case. I know I wrote a post about office hours so make sure to read that because they help with things like this. Our professors are there to help us and what better way to learn things and stress less than to take advice from people who have already been in the position we are now. So if you're stressing out and have a whirlwind of emotions in your head read this advice from some SLP Professors.

Dr. Culbertson: Recognize when you are wrong. Do not ever limit yourself, keep your eyes open to opportunities. Try new things, there are plenty of chances, do not be scared of new things. If you get the chance, write reports, research articles, or books to pass on your experiences to the next generation of SLPs.

Michelle (Shelly) Thomas: Get as many experiences observing. Volunteer anywhere and everywhere. Go out of your way, work with kids, meet people in grad programs, and build connections. Go on to grad school and get your master's degree. Always be professional and get to know your professors, take advantage of office hours. Students are always first, be confident even when you don’t know what you’re doing, act like you do. Fake it til you make it, and convey confidence to people, it really shows. The most valuable thing I’ve learned is to listen, to be a good listener, and to know that everyone I teach and asses are individuals with families. I learned to work as a team with people, and to not impose on anyone or anything. My way of thinking is not the only way, it is important to treat everyone as an individual.

Kris Culbertson: Within this field you learn the true quality of life. Communication is important to develop friendships and relationships. One day to another everything can change, so take a look at the entire picture.Observe as much as you can it may teach you what you want to do in life. Don’t be afraid. You want to love what you do, go find out what that is. There will be plenty of late nights, and they aren’t all going to be fun, but when you enjoy what you do, it isn’t work. (Playing and getting paid for it, [it’s backed by science of course] getting to know the patients, and attaching playing to other skills.)

- Sabrina