Every person striving to become an SLP will need to complete
observation hours. It is essential to be
your best self on these observations, because you are representing your college
and your speech-language pathology program.
Additionally, if you make a poor impression, it is not uncommon for the
observation site to contact your school and request that future students not be
invited back. The SLP world is
minuscule, and the connections you make on these observations may benefit you
in your future career. You want to be
your best self!
Here is how:
- Dress as though you work
there (slacks, black pants, no midriffs, no shorts, no sneakers)
- Leave your cell phone on
silent and in your bag. Do not check
it. If you’re waiting for an
important call, let the SLP know in advance. If you need to know the time, wear a
watch.
- Don’t chew gum -it’s
distracting
- Don’t wear perfume or
strongly scented hair product – many special needs students are hyperaware/sensitive
to smells
- Introduce yourself – don’t
assume the SLP knows your name or the school you are from
- Prior to beginning your
observation, ask the SLP if you should write your questions down during the
session and ask at the end, or if she prefers you to ask as the session is
being held
- Take notes. Bring a notebook and two pencils with
you.
- Look interested. Yes, you are observing to meet a
requirement, however there are very limited opportunities in the future
for you to see how other professionals conduct their sessions. Make the most of these hours.
- Do not join into the
session unless invited. Do not
assume that if the student and SLP are playing a game, that you will also
be playing. Stay slightly back when
observing, unless the SLP signals you in.
If the child tries to include you, ask the SLP if you should. Always follow the SLPs lead.
- Thank the SLP in person
and also send a thank you email to follow up. Be sure to get their contact information
before leaving. It is good to leave
a strong and positive impression. You never know if this SLP will be able
to help you in the future in your job search.
*Bonus – Arrive between 5-10 minutes early. If you greatly enjoyed your observation, don’t
be afraid to ask the SLP if she would be open to you returning to observe again
in the future. Also, don’t be nervous to
tell the SLP that you are interested in working in a similar environment in the
future, and is it okay for you to send her your resume.
P.S. - starting to get ready to find a CFY? Make sure to read -> I Applied To 84 Positions Before Landing a CFY
P.S. - starting to get ready to find a CFY? Make sure to read -> I Applied To 84 Positions Before Landing a CFY
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