In the heart of a bustling academic environment, Alana Maffesoli has found her calling—not only in her double major of Linguistics and Cognitive Science, but also as the Vice President of the Pre-Speech & Hearing Club (PSHC). It's a community that Alana describes, without a hint of exaggeration, as “life-saving.” The PSHC has been integral to her academic journey, offering clarity and direction when she was uncertain about her career path.
Alana’s introduction to the club was a transformative experience. "I was deciding between a few different paths as a freshman," she recalls. "But the second I attended the first PSHC club meeting, I knew I had found my home." For Alana, the club provided more than just guidance; it carved out the path to a promising future. Michigan’s unique curriculum posed several challenges for those aiming for a career in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP), requiring extra steps that could be daunting without support. Here, the PSHC proved invaluable, offering both advice and camaraderie.
A particularly memorable initiative for Alana has been the “Coffee Chats,” where members connect with board members to discuss their goals, classes, and life aspirations. “My first one was such a special moment,” she says. “It feels like yesterday I was trying to find the Lorch Hall elevator to get to the first meeting, and now suddenly I am the one giving advice?” This initiative not only bridges the gap between newer members and the leadership but also highlights the supportive nature of the club.
The PSHC’s dedication to fostering professional growth is evident in its efforts to connect members with alumni. By creating an alumni database, the club has opened doors to learning from those who have successfully navigated the same path. These connections are not just about networking but are invaluable sources of inspiration and guidance for current members.
While the club’s primary focus may not be social interactions, the friendships and professional connections formed here are profound and often organic. Alana appreciates the automatic bonding that occurs among members, grounded in their shared goals and mutual support. “We do not host social events or even really do ice breakers,” she explains, “but in the process of supporting each other towards a common goal, friendships form on their own.”
Guest speaker events are another highlight of the club’s activities, where students meet professionals from various fields of speech and hearing sciences. Alana finds these sessions exhilarating. “It is so cool meeting professionals and learning about different aspects of the field,” she says. The insights gained from these speakers often spark new interests and career aspirations among members.
Through her involvement with the PSHC, Alana has honed skills that extend beyond academics; she has evolved into a thoughtful leader and an active supporter of her peers. The diversity within the club has been a catalyst for her personal growth, as she learns about the unique passions and experiences that drive each member.
The impact of the PSHC on Alana’s perspective on speech and hearing sciences is profound. The club exposed her to a world beyond textbooks, largely shaping her understanding and love for the field. Thanks to recommendations and connections made through the club, Alana has had enriching opportunities like working in clinics for kids with ASD.
Currently, the club is focusing on easing the graduate school application process for Michigan students, compiling data on successful tracks, and advocating for a Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) minor. These efforts reflect the club's commitment to paving the way for future professionals in the field.
