ArkSHA 2022
Author: Ashley Vandenberk | Major: Communication Sciences and Disorders | Semester: Fall 2022
Hi! My name is Ashley Vandenberk, and I am majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders and minoring in Human Development and Family Sciences. I conducted a study comparing the field of speech-language pathology in the United States and Ireland for my Honors Project. This included observations at a service-learning experience at Enable Ireland in Galway, Ireland on a study abroad trip through the university, and an internship at Children’s Therapy team. Additionally, I conducted a literature review to gain background knowledge to the field of speech-language pathology regarding the following topics: history of speech-language pathology, evidence-based practice, professional associations for speech-language pathologists (SLPs), education/accreditation requirements, health care systems, and characteristics of caseloads. This study benefits future/current SLPs and other professionals who work with people with communication disorders. It introduces new knowledge when interacting and developing plans of treatment for diverse populations.
I had the opportunity to present my Honors Project at the Arkansas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ArkSHA) Convention in Little Rock, Arkansas. This allowed me to defend my project and practice professional presentation skills. My honors faculty mentor, Dr. Glade attended ArkSHA, and she observed mine and her other mentees’ presentations. I received her feedback that she liked my organization, visuals, literature review, and certification and funding sources in my presentation. Her words hold weight, and I appreciated the feedback regarding the work I did for this project. Overall, I recommend applying to present at a conference if you can! It can be scary public speaking, but it is exciting to see all your hard work come together and be able to share it with other people.
Attending and presenting at ArkSHA was beneficial to my professional development. I had the opportunity to converse with SLPs I observed at Children’s Therapy TEAM, my past professors, peers within my major at the University of Arkansas, and peers and professors from other universities. It was interesting hearing about the wide range of current research being conducted in the field. It exemplified how the field of speech-language pathology is dynamic. Professionals need to research to discover the best practices for high quality care for their patients and share the information to improve the field.
As the last year of my undergraduate studies here at the University of Arkansas is coming to an end, I am focusing on furthering my education by applying to speech-language pathology graduate programs. I hope to be accepted into a graduate program and become a licensed speech-language pathologist one day. Furthermore, I want to continue researching in the future to continue gaining new knowledge and interests.