Work-Related to SLP

[combustiblecake]

Hi guys,

 

I know that you can work as an SLPA but it seems a bit difficult to get licensed for me in Illinois (oh how I'd love to do bilingual SLPA work - but oh well). I was considering getting a CNA license through my local community college and work as a CNA in hospitals/nursing homes if all else fails in my applications while getting a an SLP post-bacc. Do you guys think that experience would be helpful on my application? 

[ljhslp]

Absolutely! I worked as a CNA all through college and throughout this year (although I am an SLPA, too). Every single one of my professors stressed volunteering and/or working in a facility where you can have exposure to those with speech/language disorders. They suggested the CNA work is a great position, and they're completely right! Although you don't work with anything speech, you work with a TON of people who receive speech and language services. Not only that, but it gives you some exposure to a completely different population than most get elsewhere (daycare, paraprofessional, SLPA, etc). It's truly a great experience, and it'll look great on your apps! Also, if you're ever interested in hospital and/or long term care, you may have an "in" by working there. CNA pays pretty well, too, so that definitely helps! I would suggest that if you do work as a CNA, you volunteer with a different population so your resume stresses your exposure and ability to work with all ages, disabilities, etc. I say go for it! Hope this helps!

[cheltroy]

CNA is great but there is also the option of ABA therapy... Working with children with autism. This gives you work experience AND therapy experience! There are so many avenues that will help with your application. Honestly, after graduating, the only way you can go is up... You can't screw up a GPA... And experience is experience. Do what you love!

Just accepted an offer in ABA a few weeks ago, and I am thrilled!

[badgergirl]

Another possibility is doing some sort of respite care, they call it different things in different states. In Wisconsin I was a respite care provider for United Cerebral Palsy and I was able to work with people with autism, downs syndrome, and cerebral palsy of all different ages.  I now am in North Carolina and I am a habilitation technician for A Small Miracle where I work with people with disabilities.  I think it is a great opportunity to work with different populations and unlike CNA work you do not need to be certified. I also worked as a CNA and I think that is good experience as well.