SAA Committee Member Spotlight: Miriam (Mimi) McConnell

Name: Miriam (Mimi) McConnell
University: Northeast Ohio AuD Consortium
Year in Program: Fourth Year
Committee: SAA Conference Committee

Why did you decide to become an SAA committee volunteer?
I first joined the SAA Conference committee at the end of my second year to get more involved with SAA on a national level, meet other audiology students, and network with professionals. Serving as an SAA committee volunteer has given me the opportunity to become a better leader and advocate within our profession.

What do your responsibilities within your committee include?
I serve as head of our Networking subcommittee to plan and coordinate the networking session at the SAA Conference. My responsibilities include inviting professionals of varied specialties, structuring the networking session, and planning within our given space and time to create an event that enhances the student experience.

Within the field of Audiology, what are your primary interests?
My passion within audiology is working with Veterans, especially cochlear implant patients. I have loved seeing the progression from initial activation to their one-year follow up and beyond. I am currently completing my externship at the Hershel Williams VA Medical Center and hope to continue my career within the Department of Veterans Affairs.