Thriving (Not Just Surviving) as a Graduate Student

Being a student in an audiology graduate program is incredibly rewarding, but not without its challenges. Between long clinic hours, coursework, research, and the pressure to always be professional, it can easily become overwhelming and cause you to put your own well-being on the back burner. But you can’t pour from an empty cup. In this post, I’ll outline some important things to remember as you navigate through the challenges and transitions of graduate school.

Mental wellness is not optional, and it should be treated with the same seriousness as physical health. As students, the long hours, emotionally intense clinical experiences, and academic stress can take a toll. Fortunately, most universities provide free or low-cost counseling services, and it can be of great advantage to use these resources. Never wait until you’re in a crisis to seek help. Additionally, mental well being does not always have to be attending counseling sessions. Consider other ways to check-in with yourself such as journaling, practicing mindfulness, or taking a leisurely walk in nature.

As future clinicians, we are learning to advocate fiercely for our patients. This means that we must know how to advocate for ourselves, as well. If you ever find that you are struggling with your workload, unclear expectations, or inaccessible learning environments, it is crucial to speak up. This might mean requesting accommodations, asking for clarification, or setting personal boundaries. Advocating for yourself doesn’t always mean confrontation, but rather communication. Your professors and preceptors want to support you, but they aren’t mind readers. It is important to take charge of your learning experience by knowing what you need and asking for it.

On that note, confrontation may be inevitable. Whether you are giving or receiving feedback, navigating disagreements with peers, or managing tension with a preceptor, difficult conversations are part of the journey. Remember to prepare ahead, stay respectful, and focus on the issue instead of the person. Practice active listening and ask questions to understand the other side of the story. If you aren’t sure how to approach a situation, seek advice from a trusted faculty member or advisor. The ways that you handle these conversations will shape your future as a clinician and colleague.

Creating meaningful and professional connections with people in our profession is critical. Networking may sound intimidating, but think of it more as building relationships. Some of the most important and career-guiding relationships that you create will come from your classmates, supervisors, or people that you meet at conferences. Consider attending local or national conferences, such as the AAA Annual Convention. Additionally, becoming a member of an organization such as national SAA can provide you with unique networking experiences.

There is no denying that graduate school is intense. But, you are not alone. Lean on your peers, take care of your mental health, and don’t be afraid to speak up. You’ve got this!

Shelby Somers
2025-2026 National SAA Board of Directors