hopefulfutureSLP2020 Posted March 21, 2020 Share Posted March 21, 2020 Hi everyone! I am currently deciding between three schools, each for different reasons. A little background info on other factors: my mom is paying for my graduate school and I am super thankful, but with the economy the way it is right now I feel guilty even though she keeps telling me to not let cost play a factor in my decision. Additionally, I currently do not have a specialty in mind, I have interests, but nothing concrete. Here are some factors I am considering in my decision making: 1. Number of clinical placements- Does having more clinical placements outside of an in-house clinic look more appealing to employers? This may allow me to explore more options, but one school also offers various specialties within their multiple in-house clinics. 2. Rankings- I know everyone says rankings don't matter, but I have a hard time believing it. I am possibly moving across the country after graduate school and have no connections. Would going to a highly ranked school help me get a job wherever I go (in whatever I decide to specialize in?) 3. Specialized classes- does having very unique electives help you as well or prove to be beneficial? One school I am considering offers a lot of very unique and specific electives, and majority of classes are electives. I am feeling very lost on my decision making and worried I am going to make the wrong choice. Any input is appreciated! Hope everyone is staying safe! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MadisonMachelle Posted March 23, 2020 Share Posted March 23, 2020 (edited) Hi! I feel you 100% I spent a long time looking into the same questions and this is what I got: For #1 The amount of clinical placements will make you look better for jobs, but not THAT much more appealing considering everyone does between 2-4 anyways. The main benefit of doing more clinical placements is that if they are in a hospital/school/private practice you can get job offers through them. For #2 I've heard from SLP's that I've mentored with that the reason it doesn't matter about the ranking is that its an in-demand field so as long as you are qualified with your CCC's and went to an ASHA accredited school, you'll get a job. I've noticed that getting a good CFY or externship depends on if the school has good connections with nearby providers. Again, if you get a good CFY/externship/clinical placement you have a better shot at getting a good job. With that being said, you can still get a job without having extraordinary experience during grad school. You'll just develop your repertoire after grad school. #3, specializations or emphases will make you more marketable for jobs and can be used for leverage when you are negotiating your salary. For example, a specialization in autism, AAC, bilingualism, and multiculturalism, etc. is in demand and can be grounds for a pay raise or a reason for you to be hired over another candidate for a job. Stay safe and good luck! Edited March 23, 2020 by MadisonMachelle hopefulfutureSLP2020, bibliophile222 and samiamslp 1 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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