When I first heard about this study abroad program, I felt a bit jealous of the opportunity my classmates had. I never thought I’d actually get the chance to be part of it myself. For a while, the idea just lingered in the back of my mind, and I’d imagine how amazing it would be to learn and explore in a city such as London with my friends and classmates. But for someone who still lives at home to save money, it felt out of reach. It was hard to justify the cost of something that I wasn’t sure I was deeply committed to, but I also knew this experience had the potential to expand my understanding of the field and help me discover my true passion. Still, after a year of dreaming and slowly building up some savings, I decided to apply. I reminded myself that money comes and goes, but experience is far more valuable. I knew that if I didn’t at least take the opportunity to apply, I genuinely would have regretted it for the rest of my life.

I will forever be grateful to the Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders for allowing me to join them in this program. Spending three weeks studying abroad in London was the perfect amount of time to explore the city and learn more about the field of Speech Pathology from a different perspective than what we’re used to at MSU.

During our time, we heard from so many amazing Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) who work in various settings. They shared how speech therapy can make a real difference in people’s lives by helping them reach their communication goals and feel more confident and independent. Some SLPs even brought in a few of their clients, who had the courage to speak openly about their personal experiences working with SLPs and the impact SLPs have had on their journeys. We heard from therapists working in schools, hospitals, learning disabilities, deaf studies, support groups, and so much more. It was truly inspiring to see how much of an impact this field can have on so many people’s lives across the human life span, and how there is a huge need for more SLTs globally.

Before studying abroad, I often questioned whether Speech and Language Sciences was the right career path for me. I struggled to feel a strong connection to the field because I couldn’t fully understand the impact that speech therapy could have on someone’s life. But that completely changed on this program. Listening to individuals with laryngectomies, aphasia, and those who stutter share how speech therapy changed their lives truly sparked a genuine passion within me for this field. I realized that this career means so much more than I originally thought. Although I am still unsure what I want to specialize in, this program helped me realize why I want to continue pursuing a career in speech sciences.

Studying abroad was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made for both me and my education. I’m truly grateful I took the chance and applied, rather than looking back and regretting missing out on a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Name: Edona Prenaj
Status: Senior
Major: Communicative Science and Disorders
Hometown: Holt, Michigan
Program: Communication Disorders in the UK