grad?

I just started a program to give me an SLPA license. I have heard of programs at Northern Arizona University, University of Northern Colorado, and University of Wyoming is currently revamping their program. I know at NAU and UNC you have to do a medical externship in your last summer in the programs, but the work you do in your school counts for all your other hours. What did you like about being an SLPA and what did you not like? Did having an SLPA help you get into grad school? Why?