Going in a different direction (could)= kicking butt and taking names

[lrpgxf]

Hi guys,

I decided after applying for two years, and unable to get in a program it was time to switch things up. I have an undergrad in Speech Pathology, and being out of school this year i've had lots of free time. To take up some time, I have been subbing in my local elementary schools. With this experience, I'm pretty sure I have found my true calling. Special Education. I realized what drew me into speech was the young type of clientele I could work with, these guys are the same that I can work with as a SPED teacher. I come home happy, refreshed and feeling like I made a difference for the better for these kids.

Now that I know what my new direction is, I'm planning on earning initial SPED while completing a Masters at the same time. Has anyone gone through a program like this? Did it work well for you?

I'm terrified of not getting into a program, as my undergrad GPA ended up being a 3.2 and my nonstellar GREs of 910. If anyone has some encouraging words right now as I begin the application process (again), I would really appreciate it.

Thanks for reading my ventfest. Good luck to all of you in whichever direction you have chose!

[Gneiss1]

Certainly having some experience from your subbing will help, especially if you can get a solid LOR to attest to your skills. There isn't much you can do about your GPA at this point, but could you possibly study more and retake your GRE? I would get in touch with some of the programs you wish to attend as well.

Good luck!

[stell4]

I am getting out of teaching now, 12 days left! If you don't get into the MS program, have you considered getting your SPED cert. at the local community college then going for your MS (maybe even after you start working)? It would probably also improve your application. The nice thing about SPED is you should never be in want of a job, full or part time. Everywhere I've ever taught has always been short, probably for good reason, too much paper work and huge case loads. Generally the cert. programs are not too intensive, I think it would be absolutely doable to get your MS at the same time if it is a possibility.

[lrpgxf]

Gneiss1 and stell4,

Thank you for your advice. I have been "bumping" as my dad would say, with many programs I am thinking about. Luckily, most of them have spots available still! I'm not used to hearing that After speaking with programs, my GRE is average, if you can believe that. I'm still in denial/don't know if I believe them. Going back to earn a certificate in SPED is definitely my ultra back up.

I know i'm over sitting around waiting for something cool to happen, so I can't wait to get started...on either route I have to go.