5 Things I Wish I Knew as a CF

1. Give yourself grace: You will make mistakes, and that’s okay! Mistakes mean you’re learning and can be opportunities for growth. No one is perfect and you can’t expect yourself to be either!
2. It’s okay to ask questions: One thing I’ve learned since being in this field is that SLPs are some of the kindest and most supportive people I’ve met. It’s always okay to ask questions and seek guidance from others on your team (i.e., supervisors, other SLPs, OTs, PTs, etc.). Learn from others experiences!
3. Don’t spread yourself too thin: During your Clinical Fellow Year, it can be easy to put 100% of yourself into your job, but that can lead to burnout quickly. Make sure you’re making time for yourself and reach out to your supervisor or leadership team if you need extra support.
4. Build relationships with other staff: If you work in a school setting specifically, building relationships with other staff who aren’t SLPs can make a huge impact in your workdays. Building these relationships creates such a supportive environment in the schools and can give you a sense of belonging that you probably wouldn’t have if you were by yourself in the speech room every day. Custodians, secretaries, teachers, admin, cafeteria staff, OTs, and PTs are your best friends!
5. Sessions won’t go as planned: You can prep for hours for a session and still not have it go as you planned. The biggest piece of advice I have for any CF is to roll with the punches. Of course you should still make sure you’re targeting goals, but I’ve seen the most progress with my students when I simply follow their lead and expect the unexpected.

Being a CF is challenging and you’re going to feel overwhelmed at times, but remember that you are here for a reason and you are going to make such a profound impact on the lives of the children you serve. If no one has said it today, I believe in you and I’m happy you’re here!

Angela Vatrano, M.S., CCC-SLP