Student Profile: Emily LaSpada
Emily LaSpada is a second-year audiology graduate student in the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences
Q: Tell us about your summer internship.
I spent this past summer at Boys Town National Research Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska through the NIH T35 Audiology Research Training opportunity. My experience in Omaha was fantastic! I had a phenomenal mentor, Dr. Heather Porter, as well as an amazing cohort of four other Audiology students from across the country. My focus this summer was a mentored investigation supporting the NIH Project INCLUDE initiative, which centers on hearing healthcare outcomes for individuals with Down syndrome across their lifespan.
To increase accessibility for participants, we brought the Boys Town Mini Research Vehicle to individuals' homes so that they could be a part of the study. The participants and families were so welcoming and generous with their time. They shared insights on their journey with hearing healthcare, engaged in research, and gave advice to me as a future clinician hoping to support individuals with diverse abilities and their families.
This opportunity also allowed me to explore Omaha and the surrounding areas. I took a trip out to Phoenix, Arizona for the National Down Syndrome Congress Convention! Some of my favorite discoveries in Omaha were the Saturday morning farmers markets in the Old Market, the Nelson Farm Corn Festival, concerts on the Riverfront, and finding the troll under the Bob Bridge!
Q: What was it like to learn in a different state and environment?
I was anxious to relocate to Nebraska for the summer. I had never lived so far from home. However, I enjoyed my time in Omaha greatly and created a home away from home with my cohort and mentors. Everyone was very welcoming, and I really loved the research hospital environment. I appreciated having such a thorough understanding of clinical skills from experiences in our on-campus clinic and coursework here at UMass. It was a great foundation for me.
Q: Is audiology care much different in other places?
Since Boys Town is a research hospital, the close collaboration between clinicians and scientists allows for the rapid implementation of the latest research developments. Multiple labs are actively exploring a wide range of topics in audiology, speech, language, communication differences, and vestibular and balance disorders. It was incredible to learn about the efforts to deepen our understanding of these areas and improve clinical practices to improve patient outcomes.
Q: How did the Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences (SLHS) Department prepare you for the internship?
I worked as an Audiology Assistant in a private practice the summer before starting at UMass. I really appreciate how the clinical supervisors Dr. Tomma Henckel, Dr. Dave Gooler, and Dr. Emily Bambacus recognize that I have some experience already and have supported the growth of my clinical skills as well as my independence as a student clinician. As I mentioned earlier, my first-year courses provided a strong foundation in clinical practices, emphasizing not only the use of specific tools and evaluations but also the importance of approaching audiology and research with a person-first, culturally competent, and considerate perspective
Q: What is your favorite thing about the SLHS department?
I really enjoy the community that's been built within the SLHS department. I have only been at UMass for 2 years and I feel supported by the clinical supervisors, our professors, my academic advisor, Dr. Sara Mamo, and my peers. There are so many events hosted by the department and student organizations to further develop bonds which has been so nice - especially to meet other students with similar interests!
Q: Why did you choose to come to UMass?
I chose UMass for its supportive environment, emphasis on public health, and commitment to patient- and family-centered care. The program also offers the chance to work closely with the clinical placement coordinator and faculty to explore new areas and pursue experiences that align with my interests. I feel comfortable being myself here, and I’m encouraged to pursue opportunities beyond the usual path for clinical doctoral students, with constant support from those around me
Q: What do you plan to do in the future after graduating from UMass?
I plan to continue my education by pursuing a Ph.D. in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences to become a research scientist and clinician. I would like to pursue work focused on the aural rehabilitation needs of adolescents who are D/deaf and hard of hearing. I hope to bridge my connections with the Deaf community and Deaf mentors with clinical and research skills to develop novel approaches to support young individuals navigating self-identity and advocacy. I am so grateful to have participated in the T35 traineeship, and to be here at UMass supported by such an enthusiastic and knowledgeable department.