Graduate / Applying to Graduate School for Speech-Language Pathology Statement [2]

I am supposed to discuss the talents, experiences, and goals that qualify myself for acceptance. I had to incorporate my reasons for pursuing graduate study, personal background, academic background, work experience, future plans, and other information that may be of interest. Here is what is what I have so far. I was just looking for any ways to make it better or sound more professional. Thanks!

Coming from a family with a nonverbal cousin with autism, the processes of speech, language, and communication have always struck my interest. My family and I yearned for the day my cousin would gain the skills needed to communicate. I was fascinated when my cousin was introduced to the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) as well as an Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) computer device to help him communicate with his family. I became infatuated with the idea of helping others communicate without the use of spoken language. I saw the pain and struggle my family went through just to interact with my cousin and I am therefore determined to receive the education I need to be able to treat individuals with speech, language, and communication disorders.

As I embark on an advanced level of education in a graduate program, I think about the type of student I am and the experience I have had that will allow me to prosper at St. John's University. Academically, I am a focused student who never seizes to challenge myself. In high school I took college-level courses and in college I continue to take classes which challenge my abilities as a student. I am an extremely motivated and determined person who strives to do my best.

Having a solid foundation of the anatomical processes of speech as well as the pathology of communication disorders and treatment methods from previous courses, I am knowledgeable about the many aspects of this profession. With the observation hours I was able to complete in my undergraduate degree, I am familiar with therapy preparation and therapy sessions, which will allow me to become a successful clinician at St. John's University's Speech and Hearing Center. Having exposure to the preparation that goes into one therapy session, including the goals, activities, and evidence-based practice shows how important the education in this field is.

My job as an aide in a school for children with developmental disabilities has given me the opportunity to work directly with the types of clients I would like to help in my future. Speech was a common impairment in most of the children at this school and being able to work with them first-hand on improving speech, motor, and developmental skills, allowed me to use tactics learned in my undergraduate education.

I would like to attend a school where I cannot only receive the needed classroom education but also the clinical experience. At St. John's University I will get a maximum amount of both, which will allow me to receive the appropriate information to become a speech-language pathologist. I am extremely interested in the opportunity St. John's University gives to spend an intercession in a different country, such as Guatemala. After spending a semester in Rome, becoming immersed in the culture and tradition, I now know that learning through travel is extremely effective. My desire to learn all that I can and experience all that I can is possible at St. John's University.