Experiential Learning

Addy Kolb

Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences

As a senior SLHS student, I am thankful for all the unique experiences that I have been able to participate in during my time at Purdue. Two experiences that especially stand out to me are my participation in an SLHS research lab and being a study abroad student in Spain. I have been a part of Dr. Shader’s Brain Research in Auditory Neuroscience (BRAiN) lab since my sophomore year. This experience has been so beneficial to me, as I was able to get hands-on experience, work with a great research team, learn so much about cochlear implants and how research is conducted, along with solidifying my decision to pursue an Audiology degree! In the Spring 2024 semester, I went to Madrid, Spain with the WIP study abroad program to fulfill my Spanish minor, along with having the unique experience of living, traveling and studying abroad. This was such an amazing opportunity that I highly recommend it to anyone who can do it! I am so thankful to Purdue and the SLHS program for giving me these opportunities, along with many more. Comparing my senior year self to my freshman year self, I can truly see how much I have grown academically and personally, thank you Purdue!

Abby DePaul

Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences

I have really enjoyed being involved in the ABC Lab, and it has had a large impact on my undergraduate experience. I have had the opportunity to see research in action and work closely with Dr. LaCroix and other SLHS students who have served as great resources for me in and out of the lab. I have gained important research skills that will help me in my future career as a Speech-Language Pathologist, as well as opportunities to share research within the College of Health and Human Sciences.

Studying abroad was also an impactful experience, as it allowed me to be immersed in another culture. It was rewarding to see how communication and language are different from country to country. After being a part of the language minority in this country, I feel I have a greater understanding of how important true communication is. I can use this experience in my future work as a Speech-Language Pathologist!

Jill Robbins

Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences

Entering the SLHS program at Purdue has given me countless opportunities for professional growth and learning. One of these opportunities was the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA), a professional development club for anyone pursuing a career in SLHS; it is an incredible way to network with people in SLHS, doing a great job of showing students what it is like to be a professional in SLHS. After my freshman year, I was elected to a leadership role as the ISHA Liaison. From this role, I have gained powerful leadership, organizational, and communication skills. I have also developed skills through participating in research. During summer 2024, I was a research assistant for the Child Language Lab during their Summer Fun program. Through involvement in this research, I learned more about how children with developmental language disorders learn language. To further my research experience, I have recently joined the Child Phonology Lab. Both research experiences have taught me about how knowledge in our field is acquired. Alongside research, the department provides undergraduates the opportunity to observe clinical sessions, allowing me to learn about many areas within speech-language pathology. Observing aphasia, literacy, and pragmatic clinics helps me gain a greater understanding of what it means to be a practicing SLP. I believe that all these experiences are preparing me for my future and will make me a better speech-language pathologist.