Seven students from SECD's graduate programs in special education and speech-language pathology – Claire Benisch, Christina Hamling, Audrey Hartwell, McKenna Hotovy, Emma Loberg, Chris Meurer, Alyssa Molina, Darien Myers, Natalia Nolting, Madison Sloup, Meghan Taylor, Brittany Wambold, Elaine Williams, and Taelor Williamson – share Q-&-As ahead of the commencement ceremony Aug. 13, 2021.
Claire Benisch
Rock Island, Illinois | Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
What was most influential in your decision to pursue your master’s degree at Nebraska?
I decided that I was going to attend UNL following an impromptu visit. I was impressed by all the clinic opportunities, as well as the ability to choose classes for electives, rather than simply following a preset plan. Ultimately, though, it came down to the fact that the current students and the faculty that I met during this visit made me feel welcomed and as if I was already part of their community. I was worried that I was not going to find a program that “felt right”, but I was lucky to stumble upon that at UNL!
When did you know you wanted to become a speech-language pathologist?
I knew that I wanted to be a speech-language pathologist when I was very young. My brother was born with a rare genetic condition that warranted therapy services very early on in his life. Originally, our family was told he was never going to speak, but at 20, he is communicating in ways we never thought were going to be possible. His ability to communicate following SLP services made such an impact on our family, and I wanted to try to help other families have those same experiences.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you provide speech-language pathology services?
The pandemic has allowed me to become a more flexible clinician. I learned to provide therapy via telepractice and with the barriers of masks/face shields and social distancing. It was a daunting task at first, but now I know that I will be able to adapt to any barriers that I may experience in the future!
What did you enjoy most about your master’s program?
I enjoyed so much about this program. I was able to make incredible friends that I will be able to lean on as we begin our journey as professionals. I also had amazing and unique clinical experiences, including two pre-externships, that allowed me to find my interests in this field. I feel incredibly lucky to be walking away with such a well-rounded education.
What’s next?
I have accepted a job at the Children’s Therapy Center of the Quad Cities as an outpatient pediatric speech-language pathologist. I am so excited to be able to start my career with such an incredible organization!
Christina Hamling
St. Edward, Nebraska | Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
What was most influential in your decision to pursue your master’s degree at Nebraska?
After working with the faculty during my undergraduate research experience and classes, I knew I wanted to continue learning from the wealth of knowledge that Nebraska’s faculty has to offer! I was also impressed with the wide variety of courses and clinical placements that were available.
When did you know you wanted to become a speech-language pathologist?
I always tell people it was 2nd Grade! We had a speech-language pathologist that taught narrative skills to my entire grade. I thought she was the coolest teacher and loved all of her activities, wanting to be just like her when I grew up. When I grew up, I further fell in love with the field and its diversity.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you provide speech-language pathology services?
It has encouraged me to become a more dynamic clinician! I am better able to utilize materials and various therapeutic techniques for in-person and telehealth sessions, allowing me to help more clients meet their goals!
What did you enjoy most about your master’s program?
I enjoyed the support from both the faculty and my cohort the most. No matter what the situation, I was always able to find help at Barkley. Thank you to all who have helped me get to where I am today. I couldn’t have done it without you!
What’s next?
I will be a school-based speech-language pathologist for Norfolk Public Schools in Norfolk, Nebraska!
Audrey Hartwell
Paw Paw, Michigan | Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
What was most influential in your decision to pursue your master’s degree at Nebraska?
During my undergraduate career, I completed research and co-published an article in the Topics of Language Disorders journal regarding the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) to promote literacy. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln boasts the home base for the "Father of AAC" - Dr. David Beukelman. Because the professors trained alongside Dr. Beukelman, I knew I could receive cutting edge mentorship specifically focused on AAC. AAC is my main area of passion within the scope of Speech Language Pathologists, so I am grateful to have received such specialized training.
When did you know you wanted to become a speech-language pathologist?
When I was in middle school, I provided childcare for a young girl with a repaired cleft palate. Over the years, this girl became increasingly more confident as her speech and language skills improved. I realized I wanted to assist children and families with increasing their confidence and advocacy skills to communicate effectively in the community. This has been my dream profession for over a decade.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you provide speech-language pathology services?
Serving in a public school and in a hospital during a pandemic has assisted me in thinking differently about my service delivery in several ways. The pandemic reminded me to provide grace and compassion to all families and professionals I encounter. It also encouraged me to be flexible in my treatment approaches as wearing a mask to conduct speech therapy was certainly not easy, at times.
What did you enjoy most about your master’s program?
I enjoyed the growth. My clinical supervisors at the University, Lincoln Public Schools, and Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital challenged me to develop as a person, clinician, and professional. I am confident that all of the professionals who poured into me prepared me well to launch into my career as a speech-language pathologist. The friendships I made while in this master's program are priceless, and the rigorous program was enjoyable and fun with these SLPs by my side.
What’s next?
I have accepted a job at Educational Service Unit - 02 working with birth-age 5 populations. I will be on the frontlines, helping young children and families in nearby communities with communication difficulties.
McKenna Hotovy
Fremont, Nebraska | Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
What was most influential in your decision to pursue your master’s degree at Nebraska?
I chose UNL’s speech-language pathology master’s program as I valued the program’s variety of course options and the on-site clinic, which provided diverse opportunities serving clients across the life span.
When did you know you wanted to become a speech-language pathologist?
My decision to become a speech-language pathologist was solidified in my undergraduate program when I nannied a child with childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). This was a unique experience because I had the opportunity to not only see how much CAS impacted the child, but also her family. I was able to see the full picture of how therapy benefited her and her family in a variety of settings. Communication is needed every single day and without speech therapy, individuals and their families, like the one I nannied for, cannot express their most basic wants and needs.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you provide speech-language pathology services?
The pandemic has taught me to continue to be flexible and challenge myself. I had the opportunity to learn how to deliver skilled speech therapy services via teletherapy. Despite the changes and challenges, ultimately, the pandemic has further emphasized that effectively serving a client requires a holistic approach including involvement of parents/caregivers, appropriate environmental factors, and collaborating with other professionals.
What did you enjoy most about your master’s program?
What I enjoyed most about my master’s program was serving so many diverse clients ranging in age and making life-long friends who are passionate about the same career as me.
What’s next?
I will be moving to Los Angeles to work as a pediatric speech-language pathologist.
Emma Loberg
Wayne, Nebraska | Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
What was most influential in your decision to pursue your master’s degree at Nebraska?
I had been familiar with the program through my 4 years of undergrad at UNL. I knew that grad school would entail copious changes to my life and keep me very busy, and I was drawn to the steadiness of a familiar town, building, and loved ones nearby. At a graduate program visit day for a different school, someone's parent asked me about UNL, since her daughter had toured it the previous day. Following my long, complimentary description of the program and Lincoln, she said, "Why on Earth aren't you just going there??? Why are you even here!?" In selling her the program, I realized that it was the perfect one for me.
When did you know you wanted to become a speech-language pathologist?
I committed to being an SLP when I was a senior in high school, but I wasn't certain that it was the correct path for me until my first ever client at 8 a.m., Tuesday mornings of my first semester of grad school. I had never felt the adrenaline and fulfillment from a type of work before that I felt when I finished my sessions with them each week. I never grew tired of preparing materials for them, planning out what I would try next, and going overtime in my meetings with my supervisor Dr. Adrienne Pitt as we tried to figure them out. I knew then that I couldn't imagine doing anything else with my time. That feeling has only intensified with my experiences with a wide variety of clients.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you provide speech-language pathology services?
Before the pandemic, I never fully grasped how often in the day I look at people's mouths to better understand what they are saying or gather insight regarding how they're feeling. The pandemic made me rethink so much of how I communicate and how I work with others to communicate more effectively. I began to utilize strategies I'd taught for improving intelligibility daily for my speech to be understood through a mask, in and out of therapy sessions. I realized the importance of clear, simple, and specific verbal instructions when I couldn't demonstrate anything related to articulation and had to ask questions and coach my students into forming the proper tongue positioning for the /s/ sound.
What did you enjoy most about your master’s program?
In my master's program, I have most enjoyed the people. Even though we only had 7 months in the same physical place, I am eternally grateful from the support of my cohort in the Barkley Center. I never lacked for someone to eat lunch with, to debrief about a successful or challenging session, to study with, or to eat ice cream cake at 10:30 a.m. with. I've been lucky enough to have excellent supervisors through my time at the Barkley, at my Pyrtle Elementary placement and Methodist Hospital placement. Through their guidance, I haven't been taught the "right way" to be a clinician, but rather, that I need to mesh my foundational knowledge with my own personal clinical style and perspective. Finally, I had a conversation with Jill England during a challenging time in my second semester of the program. It was challenging to ask for help, but I left the meeting feeling unbelievably supported and heard, knowing that my mental health was valued.
What’s next?
I plan to complete my clinical fellowship at Rue Elementary School in Council Bluffs, where I've been placed by the Green Hills Area Education Association. Go Junior Jackets!
Chris Meurer
Dubuque, Iowa | Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
What was most influential in your decision to pursue your master’s degree at Nebraska?
I came to UNL because of the opportunities to take more adult-oriented SLP courses.
When did you know you wanted to become a speech-language pathologist?
I knew I wanted to become a speech-language pathologist after being with my mother as she battled Alzheimer's disease throughout my childhood. I feel that my personal experience will help me better serve my patients in the future.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you provide speech-language pathology services?
The pandemic helped me become much more creative when thinking about motivational activities to include during my therapy session, especially for children who are receiving services through tele-health.
What did you enjoy most about your master’s program?
I enjoyed making new friends, interacting with the professors, and completing my externships with amazing supervisors.
What’s next?
I will be working as an SLP at Unity Point Select Physical Therapy in Marshalltown, Iowa. I will be treating patients in an outpatient setting while also spending time in the acute care and inpatient units at their hospital.
Alyssa Molina
Naperville, Illinois | Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
What was most influential in your decision to pursue your master’s degree at Nebraska?
Jill England! In all honesty, Jill was a HUGE part of why I decided to go to Nebraska, and I learned that she was an incredible reflection of how personable and dedicated our program is. I was also drawn to the opportunity to work as a graduate assistant for professors and researchers across disciplines.
When did you know you wanted to become a speech-language pathologist?
I've always been fascinated with words and language, and I come from a legacy of healthcare providers. When I learned about the field of speech-language pathology, I knew that it was the perfect intersection of my interests and professional aspirations. And as I've completed each placement, I've become more and more reassured that this is the right profession for me.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you provide speech-language pathology services?
The pandemic has helped me to further recognize how important interconnectedness is and the vital role that SLPs play in being communication bridges for those who need our services. Whether it be connecting a patient to their loved ones or providing access to resources for individuals with communication disorders, SLPs are 'frontline' in a way that I didn't fully realize before.
What did you enjoy most about your master’s program?
I enjoyed being a part of incredible research projects and collaborating with my research teams (UNL Learning Lab & BELL) and cohort members every step of the way. I am so proud of how far we've come and how much we've learned!
What’s next?
I am excited to begin working as a speech-language pathologist and complete a clinical fellowship that inspires, challenges, and continues to form me as a clinician!
Darien Myers
Sutherland, Nebraska | Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
What was most influential in your decision to pursue your master’s degree at Nebraska?
The flexible electives to learn more about the adult population and gaining more experiences in clinic with the adult population.
When did you know you wanted to become a speech-language pathologist?
Junior year of high school.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you provide speech-language pathology services?
I have become more confident in telepractice therapy due to the pandemic.
What did you enjoy most about your master’s program?
Learning about the brain and how it impacts speech, language, swallowing, and cognition.
What’s next?
I will be working at Plattsmouth Middle and High School!
Natalia Nolting
Murray, Nebraska | Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
What was most influential in your decision to pursue your master’s degree at Nebraska?
After many months of applications and prayers, I was blessed to receive offers to attend four different SLP programs. When evaluating each of the programs, it was an easy decision to continue my education with UNL for my master’s degree! One of the many factors that influenced this, on top of my positive undergraduate experience, were the faculty and reputation of the department. Over the past two years, the faculty and staff at Nebraska have been intentional in encouraging each of us to become the best speech language pathologist and version of ourselves we can be. Professors and supervisors were willing to go the extra mile to invest into us academically and clinically, but they were also genuine in checking in on how we were actually doing outside of graduate school during a pandemic!
When did you know you wanted to become a speech-language pathologist?
1 Peter 4:10 - “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms”
I am the oldest of four children growing up on a farm. Through this, I was able to develop strong character traits and embraced the responsibility of caring for my three younger brothers. When looking for a career, I knew I wanted to work in a 1:1 setting where I would be able to make a difference in the lives of others. My mom has always worked in physical therapy and I have been able to see the impact she makes on not only her patients, but also their families. I knew I wanted to be intentional in living out my goal of building a legacy of serving others. After shadowing a speech-language pathologist that my mom worked with, I fell in love with the diversity the field offers and the opportunity to come alongside patients and families to provide genuine care.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you provide speech-language pathology services?
I never would have guessed that I would be living through a pandemic, let alone completing my master’s degree!? While the pandemic has caused school and clinicals to look differently, God has taught me a lot about my role as a speech language pathologist throughout it. The pandemic has helped me to become a better clinician and grown my understanding of the value of communicating with those around us. I have seen how we as therapists are able to genuinely serve our patients who are walking through some of the most difficult times. We have the opportunity to work with, to encourage, to counsel, to laugh with, to learn from, and to educate those we serve. As a result of the pandemic, I was also able to work with Dr. Weissling on using green screens during teletherapy sessions to promote increased engagement with our clients and partner with my classmates to learn the uncharted waters of teletherapy on Zoom! The life lessons, new skills, and ultimately the flexibility we have each learned this past year and a half have helped me to practice like a 21st century clinician.
What did you enjoy most about your master’s program?
I enjoyed working as a graduate assistant for Dr. Savaiano & Dr. Weissling! In this position, I was able to gain valuable knowledge as a peer teacher in the Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) lab, provide summaries of research in the SLP field, assist in data input, help plan an advocacy event for Aphasia Awareness Month, present on the clinic resource website Dr. Weissling and I helped develop for clients and families during the pandemic, and learn from my professors. I am still very grateful for that opportunity!
What’s next?
I am excited to share that I will be completing my clinical fellowship working at Madonna’s inpatient hospital on the spinal cord injury wing and will also be PRN at St. Elizabeth hospital!
Madison Sloup
Seward, Nebraska | Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
What was most influential in your decision to pursue your master’s degree at Nebraska?
After visiting UNL, I knew that this was the place to go. The program offered such diverse clinical and academic opportunities. I have always been a Husker fan and it was such an honor to complete my degree at Nebraska!
When did you know you wanted to become a speech-language pathologist?
I have always been interested in both the medical and education fields. My roommate in college encouraged me to take the introduction to speech-language pathology class to see if I liked it. I had the most amazing professor who had such a passion for the field. Around the same time my grandmother suffered a stroke, and I was able to see the progress that she made with her speech pathologist. I knew that I wanted to be in this field to make a difference.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you provide speech-language pathology services?
I think the most important thing I have learned over the pandemic is the importance of flexibility. Not everything will go according to plan, and this last year was evidence of that. I learned how to adapt and thrive in uncertain situations, which has benefitted my clinical practice skills.
What did you enjoy most about your master’s program?
I enjoyed having the opportunity to learn from such knowledgeable clinical supervisors and professors. I also made my life-long best friends through this program and am excited to have a cohort of professionals that I can collaborate with in my future career.
What’s next?
After graduation I will be working as a speech-language pathologist with Springfield Platteview Community Schools at Platteview Central Jr. High and Platteview High School. I will also be coaching junior high cross country and track and field.
Meghan Taylor
Bandera, Texas | Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
What was most influential in your decision to pursue your master’s degree at Nebraska?
Nebraska’s incredible reputation, the opportunity to learn more about AAC and multicultural services, and the incredibly supportive faculty and staff.
When did you know you wanted to become a speech-language pathologist?
When I realized how much SLPs can do! I told a teacher in high school that I wanted to study anatomy, education, English, and neuroscience. When I found out SLPs had to learn about all of those things, I was hooked.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you provide speech-language pathology services?
I had the opportunity to work with post-covid-19 patients in a rehabilitative setting and high schoolers in person and remote. The pandemic has affected every single person, but it’s created an opportunity for us to engage in more genuine human connections and re-discover our priorities. SLPs have been called upon to support all people through COVID as communication and swallowing experts.
What did you enjoy most about your master’s program?
I gained confidence, knowledge, and a greater sense of identity and purpose. I’m most grateful for the lessons my clients and supervisors taught me about grit, kindness, and compassion.
What’s next?
I will complete my clinical fellowship in Walker County School District near Birmingham, Alabama.
Brittany Wambold
Seward, Nebraska | Master of Arts in Special Education
What was most influential in your decision to pursue your master’s degree at Nebraska?
I really enjoyed my undergraduate experience at UNL. I've made some great friends at UNL!
What originally made you interested in a career in Special Education?
I think special education is becoming more prevalent in the general education classroom, so I wanted to learn about how I can support my future students in the classroom.
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you provide special education services?
The pandemic has given me a different perspective on how to support students who may need special education services. What may work for one student, may not work with another student, and this became more obvious when everything shut down. It also made me realize that it's necessary to think about all the different types of learners when planning instruction.
What did you enjoy most about your master’s program?
I am so grateful for the relationships that I gained during my master's program. The faculty members went above and beyond to support me while also challenging me to get the most out of the program. I've learned so much, and the information I gained will be invaluable when I begin teaching.
What’s next?
I will be teaching kindergarten at Milford Elementary in Milford, Nebraska.
Elaine Williams
Overland Park, Kansas | Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
What was most influential in your decision to pursue your master’s degree at Nebraska?
I loved that the program had a balance of structured courses and flexible electives/clinic opportunities. I felt like I would come out as a well-rounded SLP.
What originally made you interested in a career in Special Education?
I first learned about SLPs through a career aptitude test in late high school. It perfectly combined my love of science, language, and helping people!
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you provide speech-language pathology services?
It has made our entire cohort extremely adaptable! I’ve learned to think on my feet and be creative with teletherapy materials.
What did you enjoy most about your master’s program?
I loved my cohort and the UNL SLP faculty! Everyone was incredibly supportive during such an unusual and hectic two years.
What’s next?
I’ve accepted a job with Quantum Health Professionals. I’ll be contracted out to an elementary school and several medical facilities in the greater KC metro area.
Taelor Williamson
Earlham, Iowa | Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
What was most influential in your decision to pursue your master’s degree at Nebraska?
I applied to UNL because of the outstanding reputation the SLP program holds, and I knew I wanted to go to UNL as soon as I visited the campus. Everyone was so welcoming, and I knew I would feel right at home. UNL, specifically Barkley Clinic, take pride in providing quality speech therapy for the individuals they serve, and I wanted to be a part of that. I am SO glad I chose to attend UNL!
What originally made you interested in a career in Special Education?
In high school, I volunteered in a preschool room. There was a young girl in the room who desperately needed an AAC device. I got to be a part of the process of educating her family, applying for the device, trialing, and then finally getting her own. After she got her device, she grew immensely as an individual, both emotionally and academically. I knew then that I wanted to continue to advocate for those without a voice. Just because someone can't speak verbally, doesn't mean they don't have anything to say, and this little girl was a perfect example of that!
How has the pandemic helped you think differently about how you provide speech-language pathology services?
First of all, SLPs can do anything!! The pandemic really required speech pathologists to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. It really taught me how to adapt and be flexible. People still need services, even in a pandemic!
What did you enjoy most about your master’s program?
Meeting all the wonderful people in my cohort. I know the future of speech-language pathology is in good hands with this intelligent bunch. I have truly met some of my best friends here and I'm excited to take on the workforce with them as my colleagues!
What’s next?
I will be a speech-language pathologist at Omaha Public Schools!
