March 2024
President’s Corner

AAA 2024+HearTECH Expo is taking place in Atlanta, Georgia, this year from Wednesday, April 17 to Saturday, April 20. Both the conference and the city have so much to offer regarding learning, networking, and having a great conference experience. I have attended three annual conferences, SAA conferences, and lived in Atlanta, so let me tell you why you should register for this year’s conference.

1. The SAA Conference

The annual SAA Conference will be taking place in conjunction with AAA 2024+HearTECH Expo on Wednesday, April 17, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM EDT. The student-focused programming at the SAA Conference covers various topics such as externships, intraoperative monitoring, licensure, and student-led research, just to name a few. The registration fee to attend the SAA Conference is only $45 and can be added to your general conference registration. My favorite part about the SAA Conference is being in sessions with just students and having the ability to have my questions answered in a safe environment. Candid discussions and questions are encouraged! This year’s conference is generously sponsored by Starkey.

2. The EarBud Program

Both undergraduate and graduate students attending the conference are invited to apply to The EarBud Program. The EarBud Program is designed to connect current students from different parts of the country with similar interests (both audiology-related and outside of audiology) prior to AAA 2024+HearTECH Expo. Through this program, you will be connected with an “EarBud” for you to have the opportunity to develop a relationship prior to the conference. At the conference, we will have a designated time for everyone to meet their EarBud in person and connect with other students! The hope is that with this program, everyone (especially those attending the conference for the first time) will have a familiar face at the conference to make it a more enjoyable experience. Sign up for free!

3. Deaf and Hard of Hearing Audiologists and Students Networking Session

If you are a student with hearing loss, there are two meetings that are offered this year at AAA 2024+HearTECH Expo. On Thursday, April 18 at 9:00 AM EDT there is a Students with Hearing Loss Networking Session. On the same day at 1:15 PM there is a networking session for both students and audiologists with hearing loss. For more information, contact Gelsey Lee, Chair of the national SAA Students with Hearing Loss Subcommittee, at gelseylee.saa@gmail.com.

4. SAA Mix and Mingle

This year, at the SAA Mix and Mingle, we will be celebrating 15 years of SAA! This is a momentous occasion! We will have special celebratory activities available, as well as food and drinks to celebrate the growth and impact of the national SAA over the last 15 years. The Mix and Mingle is generously sponsored by Starkey.

5. World of Coca-Cola

Okay, so I honestly saved my favorite part of the conference for near last. Every year I have attended the conference, I always go to the Audiology Night Out events. This year, it takes place at one of my favorite immersive experiences in Atlanta, World of Coca-Cola. As a true Southerner, born and raised, Coca-Cola is a staple in the southern diet. This beloved soda was created in Atlanta, Georgia, and at this museum, you have the WONDERFUL opportunity to taste every single flavor of Coca-Cola. Honestly, I don’t know what could be better than experiencing everything World of Coca-Cola has to offer while networking with your new audiology friends. This event is an additional cost, but take a look at their website and see why I think it is worth it.

6. Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta, Hotlanta, and ATL are just a few cherished names for one of the largest cities in the southeastern United States. If you are wondering what this city has to offer, let me give you just a quick rundown of some sights, places to eat, and attractions that you can check out while you have some downtime. If you want a more extensive list, visit this website.

• Georgia Aquarium: This attraction is located right next to World of Coca-Cola, where the Audiology Night Out event will be taking place. As an aquarium lover, this is one of my favorites because it is huge, you get your money’s worth, and the aquarium truly showcases diverse marine life.
• Centennial Olympic Park: Did you know the reason Atlanta’s population started to boom was due to the 1996 Olympics held in Centennial Park? The conference and lodging options are blocks away from this park. It’s free and open to view at your leisure.
• Waffle House: 24/7, 365, rain or shine. The cultural significance of “WaHo” is too much to write. If you have not been to a Waffle House before, I highly recommend experiencing it for yourself. I recommend the All-Star Breakfast with a Coca-Cola with lots of cherry syrup. This adored diner is affordable to all.
• SkyView Atlanta: This is a giant Ferris wheel in downtown Atlanta where you can get a great view of the city’s skyline.

Register for AAA 2024+HearTECH Expo and find more information on conference activities and learning sessions on the conference website. General conference costs for national SAA members are significantly discounted and undergraduate members get to register for free! I hope to see you in Atlanta!

Janna Hines Orr
2023-2024 National SAA President