I’m currently an undergrad senior studying speech-language pathology at Long Island University—Post (LIU Post).

But I didn’t choose this path. This path chose me. My initial journey never involved speech-language pathology, but I’m so glad that’s where I’ve ended up. 

If You Want to Make Life Laugh, Tell It Your Plans

Originally, I had my eyes set on going into Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS)—basically, being the person who administers sonograms. Ever since I was little and went with my mom to her ultrasound appointments when she was pregnant with my younger sister, I’ve been amazed by how the technology allowed you to see life using sound waves!

But DMS did not have its eyes set on me. After being rejected from several programs, I reluctantly pursued my backup plan—early childhood education. As I researched potential schools, I just kept feeling like my life goals were mundane. I didn’t feel any sparks—no passion for what I was about to get myself into. Alas, I applied to LIU Post for early childhood education. 

But when my acceptance letter arrived, it stated I was accepted into the speech-language pathology program. Uhhh … not the program I’d applied to!

Instead of freaking out, I researched the program and was delighted to realize that speech was all around me. At the time, I was nannying for a family whose child was receiving early intervention for speech at home. I watched the sessions and was overcome by how much progress the child made!

My younger sister also received speech services in school and I always took an interest in why she needed the speech therapy, as well as all the roles her speech-language pathologist played.

Thinking back, I don’t know how this idea for a career path didn’t hit me sooner!

Taking the Plunge

I decided to take the plunge and go along with the university’s mistake. It’s proven to be the best “mistake” of my life!

I was delighted beyond belief during my first semester. I immediately connected to the classes, but my language acquisition course was a game changer. The material came naturally to me because of my background in early childhood education. I found myself regurgitating all the knowledge I learned to anyone who would listen. I was finally passionate about something!

As I’m nearing the end of my undergrad years, I’m even more excited for my future in speech-language pathology. To get my foot in the door, I started working as a secretary at a local private practice. I’m surrounded by extraordinary therapists who have guided my interests even further.

I love that fact that they see such a wide variety of clients every day and can’t wait to work in a setting where I can be constantly challenged and work with a diverse population. 

Grateful for the Blunder

During the first part of my college career, I thought I had it all figured out. But life doesn’t work out exactly as planned.

I know people usually stress over not knowing what their future holds, but I’m here to say that it’s okay! It’s okay to not know what kind of career you want right out of high school. And it’s okay to change your mind after you’ve started going down a certain path. It’s okay to have one door close and another door open.

You never know what tomorrow may bring. Be open to random opportunities that present themselves to you. You never know what the next adventure is that awaits you!