There are some key things to keep in mind when you want to job shadow a Speech Language Pathologist. Approaching a professional may seem intimidating, but there are many SLPs that are more than willing to help you out! After all, they were once a student too (gasp). Certain Master programs may require that you complete a certain amount of hours too.

So where do you even begin? Here are some tips for job shadowing a SLP and how make a great impression along the way:


Scheduling a Job Shadow

 

1. Use your Networking Skills

Start out by seeing if you have any personal connections that may help you with finding an SLP. You can ask your friends, family, people in your workplace/volunteering or posting “ANY OF Y’ALL KNOW ANY SLPs?” on your Facebook. For example, both of my Behavioural Interventionist families had a Speech Language Pathologist working with the client. This is another reason why Extracurriculars are so important! Check out this post on different Extracurriculars you can do.

You can also use good old google and find SLPs in your local area. The beauty of being a SLP is that you can work in a variety of settings. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Schools
  • Hospitals
  • Rehabilitation centres
  • Private Practice

Try to approach the types of settings that you might be interested in, but don’t limit yourself! You never know what you might end up liking.

 

2. Lock in on the Date

Try to avoid endless back and forth of email. Suggest a time/date that might work once the SLP offers their availability. It also shows that you’re taking the initiative.

 

“I’ve secured a job shadowing date (Congrats!)… now what?”

Don’t worry beloved reader, onto the next phase:


Day of the Job Shadow

 

3. Wear like you Care

Now, I don’t mean that you have to wear the sweater that your grandmother knitted for you to show that you care (I’m sure you do though). As obvious as this might sound, try to look presentable. You want to look like you care about this amazing chance to see a SLP in action! Keep those comfy sweatpants at home. Stick with a blouse, dress shirt, black pants, etc.

 

4. Get there 5 minutes Early

As much as it’s understandable to be late sometimes (that darn bus totally saw you, but still left while you were running towards it), it’s important to plan ahead. Especially since you might not be familiar with the location, try to get there a little earlier so you can scout out the area. Better early than late!

 

5. Note: Take notes

Bring a notebook and pen with you, something easy to carry around. Don’t take any notes on your phone, heck- don’t even pull it out at all. If you’re on your phone, it’ll seem like you’re distracted and not paying attention. Definitely not a good impression. Same as in a classroom, you want to be taking notes and being present!

If the SLP can spare a moment, feel free to ask questions such as:

  • What do you like most about being an SLP? What do you like the least?
  • What kinds of settings have you worked in before? Which were your favourite?
  • What is one thing that surprised you when you became an SLP?
  • What advice would you give to a driven student that wants to become a SLP? What advice should they ignore? (Inspired by Tim Ferriss)
  • What are some of the biggest challenges that you’ve faced as a SLP?

When the SLP is working with a client, try to write down any observations about the client that you see. You could discuss what you’ve observed with the SLP and ask for their feedback afterwards.


After the Job Shadow

 

6. Keep track of your hours

Some schools may require documentation for your hours. You want to have proof that you actually did it! Make sure the SLP signs anything that needs to be signed and filled out before you leave. If you job shadow in multiple locations, keep track of their contact information and the location.

 

7. Send a Thank You Note

After your job shadowing is done, make sure to send them a thank you note (email or snail mail works). Mention one or two favourite moments to make it more personalized. It’ll show that you’re being thoughtful and appreciative of their time.

The SLP ladies from my Therapy Abroad trip have created an amazing observation worksheet for observing clients. I’ve slightly modified it to accommodate the kinds of questions you might ask the SLP as well.

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