How I became a travel SLP and you can too
Introduction
Becoming a traveling healthcare professional is not just about work; it’s also about personal growth and exploration. In this journey, one individual shares their experiences from being a student to transitioning into a career that allows them to combine their passion for healthcare with their love for travel.
Undergraduate Experience at Penn State University
My journey began at Penn State University, where I initially pursued a degree in food science. However, a pivotal experience working in a nursing home during my summer breaks led me to switch my major to communication sciences and disorders. This shift in focus marked the beginning of my journey towards becoming a speech pathologist.
Master’s Degree at Emerson College
After completing my undergraduate studies, I pursued a Master’s Degree at Emerson College in Boston. It was during this time that I had the opportunity to work closely with my supervisor, Svetlana, who played a significant role in shaping my career path. Graduating from Emerson College was a milestone that set the stage for the next chapter of my journey.
Transition to a Clinical Fellowship in Boston
Following my graduation, I secured a Clinical Fellowship opportunity to work in a skilled nursing facility in Boston. Despite the excitement of this new chapter, I felt a sense of restlessness. It became clear to me that my desire to travel and explore the world was a calling that I could not ignore. This realization prompted me to embark on a transformative month-long trip to Europe before starting my Clinical Fellowship.
Embracing a Career as a Traveling Healthcare Professional
The trip to Europe was a turning point in my life. It opened my eyes to the endless possibilities that awaited me beyond the confines of familiar surroundings. Upon returning from my journey, I made the decision to prioritize travel in my career. After gaining valuable experience working in Boston for a year and a half, I took a leap of faith and ventured into the world of traveling healthcare opportunities.
As I reflect on my journey to becoming a traveling healthcare professional, I am grateful for the experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today. The intersection of healthcare and travel has not only enriched my career but has also allowed me to fulfill my thirst for exploration and discovery.
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**Related Questions:**
1. How did your experience in a nursing home influence your career path?
Working in a nursing home during my summer breaks exposed me to the field of healthcare and inspired me to pursue a career in speech pathology. This experience highlighted the impact that healthcare professionals can have on improving the lives of others, ultimately shaping my decision to switch my major to communication sciences and disorders.
2. What prompted you to pursue a month-long trip to Europe before starting your Clinical Fellowship?
Despite securing a Clinical Fellowship opportunity in Boston, I felt a deep urge to explore the world and broaden my horizons. The desire to travel had always been a part of me, and I knew that taking the opportunity to journey through Europe would not only be a memorable experience but also a catalyst for personal growth and self-discovery.
3. How did your trip to Europe influence your decision to prioritize travel in your career?
The trip to Europe was a transformative experience that ignited a newfound passion for travel within me. It made me realize the importance of embracing opportunities to explore different cultures, environments, and perspectives. This journey served as a reminder of the vastness of the world and the endless possibilities that awaited me beyond my comfort zone.
4. What role did your supervisor at Emerson College play in shaping your career path?
My supervisor at Emerson College, Svetlana, played a pivotal role in guiding me through my Master’s Degree program and providing mentorship that extended beyond the classroom. Her support and expertise not only helped me develop my skills as a speech pathologist but also instilled in me a sense of confidence and determination to pursue my career goals.
5. How has combining your passion for healthcare with your love for travel enriched your career?
The intersection of healthcare and travel has allowed me to approach my work with a sense of curiosity, adaptability, and cultural awareness. By immersing myself in diverse healthcare settings and exploring various destinations, I have gained a deeper understanding of global healthcare practices and the universal need for compassionate care. This fusion of healthcare and travel has not only expanded my professional horizons but has also brought a sense of fulfillment and purpose to my career journey.
