Introduction

Attending the ASHA Convention is an exciting opportunity for students to learn, network, and grow within the communication sciences and disorders (CSD) discipline—but how can you make it happen? Whether you do it through scholarships, volunteer programs, or leadership opportunities, as a student you have multiple paths to Convention.

Four students share their experiences and advice on how they got to ASHA Convention, what they learned, and how the experience shaped their professional goals.

The following students provide their perspectives:

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1. What opportunity brought you to the ASHA Convention, and how did you learn about it?

Michaela Branch
Vanderbilt University
I was awarded the Audiology Research Travel Award (ARTA) for the 2024 ASHA Convention. ARTA is a program for AuD students, PhD students, and postdoctoral fellows with interests in hearing or audiology research. Through the program, I attended the Audiology Research Symposium, selected hearing-related sessions, and attended several interactive and/or networking events (e.g., ARTA breakfast, research roundtables, etc.).

I learned about the program and other ASHA programs at the ASHA booth at the American Academy of Audiology (AAA) conference. I met Alexis Redmond, NSSLHA Senior Director, and she told me about all of the programs, all that they had to offer, and the process of applying.

Jocelyn Martinez
Case Western University
I really wanted to get involved in National NSSLHA and attend Convention before I finished my undergraduate degree, so I looked up opportunities on the NSSLHA and ASHA websites. What ultimately led me to apply to The MSLP was a networking event through The Innovative Mentoring and Professional Advancement through Cultural Training (IMPACT), where someone from ASHA spoke to us about the opportunities that they offer. This conversation motivated me to take the next step in applying for the MSLP, as it aligned with my passion for professional development and supporting underrepresented populations in speech-language pathology.

Megha Choudhari
West Coast University
I heard about the opportunity to be a student volunteer at the ASHA Convention through social media. I immediately applied and was thrilled to hear that I was selected! As a member of the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Action (IDEA) Work Group, I found this to be a wonderful opportunity to meet my colleagues in person while also spending time with my university professors.

Eriel Confer
Vanderbilt University
After learning about The MSLP through Alexis Redmond and Akilah Heggs at the 2024 American Academy of Audiology (AAA) conference in Atlanta, I attended the 2024 ASHA Convention through The MSLP. The MSLP is a guided program led by ASHA leaders for students from underrepresented backgrounds. Through this program, I had the opportunity to engage with and learn from peers who share similar experiences as we exchanged perspectives and insights. Programming for The MSLP included meeting with ASHA leaders and attending their committee meetings, participating in professional networking workshops and seminars, and completing a project on a selected topic of interest at the end of the ASHA Convention.

2. What steps did you take to prepare for attending Convention (financially, academically, logistically)?

Michaela Branch
Vanderbilt University
First, I sought out funding mechanisms (e.g., department funding, ASHA programs, etc.). Then, I decided to apply for ARTA—not only because it allowed a path to get to Convention but also because of the experience that it provides. After receiving the award, I notified my professors and supervisors of the days that I would be absent.

Next, I set a budget, and then I started exploring travel and accommodations options. I looked into sharing as many of these costs as possible (e.g., ride-sharing, hotel, etc.). This step greatly helped to defray the overall cost of attendance, limiting out-of-pocket expenses—plus, the more the merrier!

Finally, the fun part—figuring out which presentations, posters, and events I would attend. The ASHA Convention planner app was super helpful for planning out my days.

Jocelyn Martinez
Case Western University
Financially, my hotel was covered, but I needed to pay for a few meals and for my travel to Seattle. I made sure to budget as soon as I got accepted—to ensure that I could cover these costs. Academically, I knew I was going to miss my last week of classes, so I contacted my professors at least 1 month in advance to let them know. They were very accommodating, and I was able to push exams and presentations back until the following week when I returned to campus. Logistically, it involved a lot of emailing back and forth with the director of The MSLP, Melanie Johnson. I made sure to stay organized and provided all the necessary paperwork that she needed from me to ensure a smooth process.

Megha Choudhari
West Coast University
From a financial standpoint, attending the ASHA Convention was more cost-effective than I originally thought. National NSSLHA members receive an already reduced rate, and student volunteers are reimbursed for their registration. I also purchased an ASHA Eats card for $30 that had $50 worth of credit. Fortunately, I had family in the area—this allowed me to save money on housing. For transportation, I used a code through the ASHA Convention website that discounted my flight. This brought my total for attending ASHA to around $300. I also worked with my professors in advance so I wouldn’t miss any class material or assignments. By planning out my trip, budgeting, and communicating with my professors, I was able to successfully prepare for—and attend—the ASHA Convention.

Eriel Confer
Vanderbilt University
To prepare for the ASHA Convention, first I obtained approval for attendance from my professors and clinical supervisors. With prior experience attending ASHA, I used that knowledge to plan for the 2024 Convention. I made sure to “star” the talks that I wanted to attend in the Convention app, solidified my personal and professional goals, and ensured that my logistics ran smoothly. Through The MSLP, I didn’t need to arrange hotel accommodations, but I did book my flight—and I made sure to bring materials such as business cards and resumes for networking. These steps helped me feel ready for the experience. Additionally, I took time to reflect before the Convention, thinking not only about what I wanted to learn but also the skills that I hoped to develop while there.

3. How did attending the Convention impact your professional goals or perspective on the field?

Michaela Branch
Vanderbilt University
Attending the ASHA Convention has widened my perspective on the field. I got to meet and reconnect with people at different points in their career and different niches within the field. Seeing different research, clinical approaches and career paths, I was able to view my own research/clinical interests and goals in a new light. My perspective on my own research in hearing health education improved through conversations I had at poster presentations on similar topics. While the specifics of my professional path are not set in stone, I have a lot more clarity on what my path could look like.

Jocelyn Martinez
Case Western University
Attending ASHA’s Convention reinforced my passion for advocating for diverse populations in speech-language pathology and gave me valuable insights into how the field is evolving. Hearing from professionals who specialize in bilingualism and neurogenic disorders strengthened my commitment to research and clinical practice in these areas. It also helped me see the importance of mentorship and representation, motivating me to continue supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds in their academic and professional journeys.

Megha Choudhari
West Coast University
The ASHA Convention gave me a new perspective on my future career, as it was my first time being in a room with thousands of people who have the same passion as me. I met with recruiters for my clinical fellowship year (CFY), learned about unique technology, made new friends, and spoke with pioneers in the field. I was able to network with my supervisors at my volunteer site and improve my discourse when introducing myself to others. My professional goals have grown tremendously, as I was able to learn about people’s experiences, mistakes, and tips to be successful.

Eriel Confer
Vanderbilt University
Attending the ASHA Convention helped me feel more connected to others in the field, boosting both my confidence and my excitement for the future of audiology and speech-language pathology. The added programming from The MSLP provided me with the opportunity to refine key leadership skills and build meaningful connections. The Convention allowed me to put those tools into practice. Ultimately, my participation in The MSLP and at the ASHA Convention gave me valuable insights and resources, enabling me to advocate confidently for our interconnected professions and for my patients—all while enhancing my education as a student.

4. What advice would you give to someone considering attending  ASHA Convention for the first time?

Michaela Branch
Vanderbilt University
My biggest advice for first-time Convention attendees is to truly embrace the experience. Conventions offer unique opportunities to learn, network, and gain perspective. They can deepen your education and give you insights that you can then share with peers and others. If you have the opportunity to try something new, I’d say, “Take it!” Take in the information, the networking, and—most definitely—the fun! When you’re there, it can be overwhelming, but don’t forget to take a deep breath (and maybe a nap or a snack wouldn’t  hurt). It’s all part of the experience, so make the most of it!

Jocelyn Martinez
Case Western University
I would encourage first-time attendees to plan ahead—select your research sessions in advance, set networking goals, and take full advantage of any student (NSSLHA) or diversity-focused events. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to professionals, ask questions, and engage in discussions. Also, apply for any available funding opportunities to help ease financial stress. After the Convention, take time to reflect on key takeaways—and how to implement them into your own career path.

Megha Choudhari
West Coast University
ASHA 2024 was my first Convention, and I was extremely nervous about navigating it alone, but I was able to find ways to help me overcome my imposter syndrome. Volunteering allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals who were fellow first-time attendees or with those who had previously attended and could be a mentor. ASHA also offers Convention coaches for new attendees who need some guidance. Going to the events after the Convention was a wonderful way to network and make friends. It is very natural to be nervous, but it’s also important to remember that we are not the only ones who feel that way. By putting ourselves in new and uncomfortable situations, we can break out of our shells and achieve more than we originally thought!

Eriel Confer
Vanderbilt University
Even if just 1% of you are considering going, do it! ASHA is intentionally a larger conference because there truly is something for everyone! While the Convention can sometimes feel overwhelming, take some time before the event to plan moments for relaxation, explore the fun activities that the host city has to offer, and don’t be afraid to make new friends. Beyond attending sessions and seminars, the ASHA Convention is a fantastic opportunity to connect with students from different universities, to engage with professionals in areas of interest beyond your own, and to expand your professional network. We are all learning, growing, and working together—and it’s the community, excitement, and encouragement I feel at ASHA that keeps me coming back every year!

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No matter which path you take, attending the ASHA Convention can be a transformative experience. From gaining new insights to making valuable connections, these students found ways to make Convention accessible and meaningful. If you’re thinking about attending next year, explore opportunities early, plan ahead, and take advantage of resources available to you. Your journey to Convention starts now!