Applying to Audiology Grad School Panel

Embarking on a journey towards a career in audiology requires a well-informed and strategic approach to the graduate school application process. This panel discussion, hosted via Zoom, is designed to illuminate the intricacies of applying to audiology graduate programs and provide prospective students with practical guidance from experienced professionals in the field. The panel features a diverse group of current graduate students and a knowledgeable audiology program director who will offer insights into the essential components of a successful application.

Topics covered will include how to craft a standout personal statement that reflects passion and commitment to the field, the significance of relevant clinical and research experiences, and strategies for securing strong letters of recommendation. Panelists will also address the unique aspects of the audiology graduate school application process, such as specific prerequisites, the importance of clinical observation hours, and preparation for interviews.

Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and gain valuable advice on how to navigate challenges and make informed decisions throughout their application journey. After this discussion attendees will be equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to approach their applications with confidence, ultimately helping them to achieve their academic and professional goals in the profession of audiology.

Register

Speakers

Jennifer Smart, PhD

Jennifer L. Smart, PhD, CCC-A is an Associate Professor and Program Director for the Doctor of Audiology program in the department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Grand Valley State University in Michigan. Dr. Smart is committed to the advancement of the field of audiology through research, teaching, and service. She has published in multiple journals and presented her work both nationally and internationally. Her current research is focused on improving healthcare access for underserved populations and the diagnosis and rehabilitation of adults and children with Auditory Processing Disorder (APD). Her extensive commitment to community service includes over 14 years with Special Olympics in both Maryland and Michigan. She is currently a volunteer Clinical Director with Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) for both Healthy Hearing and Healthy Young Athletes. Her dedication to community service with underserved populations has been recognized with numerous awards.

Ty Huck

Ty Huck is a current second-year AuD student at Idaho State University. He is currently serving as the national SAA Idaho State Ambassador. His passion for audiology is deeply rooted in his personal experience with severe to profound hearing loss. Having faced many challenges and the stigma associated with it, he is committed to using his experiences to raise awareness and provide support for others who live with hearing loss. Ty enjoys many aspects of audiology and aspires to become a catalyst for improving accessibility for those with hearing loss.

Emma Ingalls

Emma Ingalls is a second-year AuD student at Central Michigan University. She completed her Bachelor’s of Applied Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Central Michigan University. Her interest in audiology began after learning about the prevalence of hearing loss in the veteran population. In the future she hopes to work with veterans by conducting research on how to provide the better hearing protection for soldiers. Her current interests are in hearing aids, diagnostics, and hearing conservation. She is currently working on a research study looking at improving automated hearing aid safety and audibility using head circumference and height compared to age as a better predictor of ear canal volume. Emma has also been working on a project looking at autonomic nervous system function in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. She looks forward to continuing her education and working with incoming students!

Sakshi Patel

Sakshi Patel is a second-year student at the University of the Pacific in San Francisco, California. Sakshi’s journey on the other side of the booth has fueled her desire to become an audiologist. While she is still exploring which specialty she wants to pursue, Sakshi is passionate about finding the right path. In her free time, she enjoys journaling and taking walks with her little sister.