Mike learned about the field of speech-language pathology after
taking a job at the Crotched Mountain Rehabilitation Center in
Greenfield, NH. There he had his first experiences working with
individuals who used an AAC system. Additionally, he worked closely
with SLPs in the implementation of a PECS program for a young man with
an autism spectrum disorder. “Not only did I find that this was
something that I understood and enjoyed doing, but I got to witness the
positive effect that it had on this young man’s life. This is when I
began to consider getting a degree in speech pathology.” Mike originally
completed his bachelor’s in clinical psychology at Keene State
College, but hadn’t really known what to do with it. “Once I decided to
pursue a masters degree in speech pathology, UNH was a natural choice
as I am married and own a home in NH.”

Mike feels that he has learned a lot about teamwork in his time
at UNH. “I got to meet, work, and share ideas with a lot of interesting
and intelligent individuals. I feel that I am leaving with a better
understanding of how to work in and contribute to a group. Much of my
previous experiences were less team oriented than the work you find in
this field. My experiences in the clinic gave me a chance to exercise
and improve these skills.”

“After graduation I’d like to locate a job that will provide me
with the opportunity to support individuals who use an AAC system for
communication.”