Annalise — Bachelor of Health Science / Master of Speech Pathology
Why did you choose to study rehabilitation?
I wanted to work in a field that helped people and heard about speech pathology. I looked into all the health fields and speech therapy caught my eye. I liked the fact that there are so many different areas to work in and that the need for speech therapists is high.
What is the best thing about your course?
Definitely placements. I have had a number of placements with both adults and children. I have enjoyed each area of placement and gained a lot from participating in therapy sessions myself.
What is the worst thing about your course?
The first year, as it was a general year of health science and had nothing to do with speech pathology — I felt as though it was a waste of time.
What does your course involve?
First and second year included lab classes, tutorials and lectures. Third and fourth year were mainly made up of placement, lectures, tutorials and skills classes. In the final two years we’ve been given case scenarios each week and have been required to solve each case as a group and decide which therapy methods we would use to help. I have found these classes really beneficial!
What are your job prospects after graduating?
After graduating there are plenty of job opportunities, although the majority of these are with paediatric clients. An advantage of studying speech pathology is that, after graduating, you have the opportunity to travel and work in a number of countries all over the world.
What advice would you give to students considering studying rehabilitation?
As the years of the course progress, the workload increases. I’m in my fourth (and final) year now, and as we are doing placement and classes at the same time I have found it too difficult to continue with part-time work. The first two years of the course require a lot of motivation! I felt as though it was a waste of time and I wasn’t really learning much about becoming a speech pathologist at all, but I am extremely pleased that I stuck it out and have now nearly finished the course.
Will you complete further study?
No way — I think 13 years of schooling and four years of university is enough for me. I’m definitely looking forward to getting out into the workforce!
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