Great to see you, Emily!  

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I graduated undergrad in 2023. I live at home with my mom, dad, and older sister. My mom rode horses when she was younger and my aunt works with horses, so I was introduced to riding at a young age. I have been riding competitively since I was 4 years old. I also volunteered with equine therapy programs.

When you were 9 or 10 years old, what did you think you wanted to be when you grew up?

I saw myself owning a rescue farm with rehab services for both animals and people. My grandfather was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease when I was twelve. I developed an interest in speech disorders, especially SPEAK OUT! when I was in my undergrad program at Stonehill College. I volunteer with the American Parkinson’s Disease Association in both Massachusetts and Rhode Island. 

Why did you decide on Northeastern for your Speech Language Pathology graduate studies?

I have always had an interest in motor speech disorders since undergrad and worked on several research projects. The Parkinson’s SPEAK OUT! therapy program here at Northeastern was very motivating for me and I was fortunate to be connected to Dr. Allison and her work in the SMILe lab. I started working in her lab in the summer before I started my Master’s degree.  The research study had already been approved so I have lots of support for my Master’s thesis. The title of the thesis is:”Perception of communication changes across the SPEAK OUT! Program from the perspective of people with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners.”

Do you have other areas of interest in the field of SLP?

Speech Disorders related to Parkinson’s disease is my main area of interest. I also enjoy working with autistic clients and learning about alternative and augmentative communication with adult clients.

What would you say to your first semester grad student self?

To remind myself that I was accepted to the program and that my professors believe in me and I am in the right place.

What was your favorite class this past year?

Neuro. 

Dr. Georgan will be pleased to hear that!

What do you do to relax/have fun when you are not studying/working in your graduate program?

I have a great group of friends from my undergrad program that I am close to.  One of our group activities is weekly line dancing outings!

What are you most looking forward to in second year of your MS SLP Program?

I am excited to continue learning about different areas in our field.

This has been great Emily!  Thanks so much for your time and best of luck for the upcoming year.