Mine was not a straight path.  Becoming a certified SLP takes many years of schooling, and I made it even longer as I searched for what I wanted to study.  Fortunately, after getting my Bachelor’s degree, I worked for the Visiting Nurse Association of Boston, where I had the opportunity to job shadow an SLP on some home visits; and I saw what my future could be.

After taking more courses to get the background needed for a graduate program in Communication Disorders, I began graduate work at the University of Connecticut. There I was described as an OWL (an older wiser learner they said, since in the second half of my twenties I was older than the typical student, and I was extremely committed).  Then I completed my clinical fellowship at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital when it was next door to the Boston Garden, and enjoyed commuting on the T and commuter rail each day, which gave me plenty of time to finish up work and get lost in a good book.

Before long, my husband and I began our own family, bringing three children into the world, and I exited the professional life while my children grew a bit.  SLP at heart, I led the young children’s story hour at our local library, including books, puzzles, and crafts so there was something for everyone.  I also participated on the board of director’s at our preschool and then volunteered in our elementary school.

After seven years away, I re-entered professional life, working in early intervention with families with young children in their homes, then a few years later, adding hospital outpatient clinic work, as well as middle and high school settings.  Having such varied work experience over the last 20+ years has fed my desire to always learn more. Beyond extensive formal continuing education, the clients I’ve worked with have been invaluable educators.  I’m indebted to each one for helping me bring more knowledge to the next.