National Speech-Language-Hearing Month 2025
Posted on May 14, 2025 by CAHP
National Speech-Language-Hearing Month is celebrated in May each year to raise awareness about communication disorders and the role practitioners, educators and students have in providing life-altering treatment.
The Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology at the University of South Alabama offers programs for a Doctor of Philosophy in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Doctor of Audiology, Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Sciences and a minor in Speech and Hearing Sciences.
In celebration of National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, we are highlighting six students from programs in South’s Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology. Let’s get to know Avery Barnett, Grace Fairchild, Gabrielle Head, MacKenzie Morrison, Bailee Rowlett and Nan Sheek!
Avery Barnett
Major and Class Year:
Class of 2025, speech-language pathology student
Where are you from?
Helena, Ala.
What was your undergraduate major?
Double degree- BS General Biology, BA Spanish with a minor in Psychology
Why have you chosen this particular profession?
“I chose speech-language pathology because I believe communication is essential for forming relationships and building connections that shape our lives. I am passionate about helping people of all ages strengthen their communication skills and create meaningful interactions with others.”
What led you to choose South?
“I chose this school because of its excellent facilities and its focus on providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for all aspects of the field. I also enjoy living in Mobile, which has made my experience here even more fulfilling.”
What has your experience been like as a student at South?
"My experience at the school has been very rewarding, and I have truly loved all of my coursework. I feel well-prepared to enter the workforce and am grateful for the education and training I received here.”
What do you like to do outside of class and studying?
“Outside of class and studying, I enjoy reading, going on walks with my roommates, playing pickleball with my friends, and spending time with pets (mine and my roommates)!”
What are your plans after graduation?
“After graduation, I plan to move back to Helena and complete my CF (clinical fellowship) year.”
What advice would you offer to future speech pathology and audiology students?
“My advice would be to stay on top of your coursework and complete assignments early, so you can fully enjoy your time with friends and activities outside of school. Maintaining good time management helps create a healthy balance between academic responsibilities and personal life.”
What is a fun fact about yourself?
“During my time in the SLP program, I also completed an online graduate certification in Spanish for healthcare professionals. I am passionate about language learning and can not wait to provide for this community in my future practice. Also, I played college softball!”
Grace Fairchild
Major and Class Year:
Audiology 2027
Where are you from?
West Columbia, SC
What was your undergraduate major?
Public Health & Sociology
Why have you chosen this particular profession?
“I originally chose audiology because I loved working with geriatric populations and using technology to improve quality of life. Audiology is so much more than just hearing technology, though, and I love that I can also work with vestibular assessment, electrophysiological measures and rehabilitation.”
What led you to choose South?
“My home state does not have any audiology programs, so I applied to programs across the country. South stood out to me with its accelerated 3-year curriculum, on-campus clinic, and small class sizes. I am also grateful to be at an institution with graduate assistantships, providing both tuition assistance and further opportunities to gain experience in the field.”
What has your experience been like as a student at South?
“I've had an excellent experience at South with incredibly supportive faculty both in the classroom and in the clinic. The program is fast-paced, but I've absorbed more knowledge than I ever imagined I would.”
What do you like to do outside of class and studying?
“When I'm not studying, you can probably find me at my weekly yoga class or trying a new coffee shop. Even though I'm still adjusting to the Gulf Coast heat, I love to spend time outside hiking, swimming or running.”
What are your plans after graduation?
“After graduation, I hope to work in a hospital setting with a primary focus on vestibular assessment and management. I'd be happy in any audiology setting that involved working with older adults.”
What advice would you offer to future speech pathology and audiology students?
“Never underestimate the power of a good study group. At least in grad school, it's nearly impossible to catch every important concept from every lecture. But if you find a good group of other students to study with, you'll be able to gain a more thorough understanding of your academic work.”
What is a fun fact about yourself?
“I have a blind, hairless cat named Doug. He attends all of my Zoom lectures and makes for a great study companion.”
Gabrielle Head
Major and Class Year:
Speech and Hearing Sciences, 2026
Where are you from?
Atlanta, Georgia
Why have you chosen this particular profession?
“I chose this profession because I want to help people find their voice. Everyone deserves a way to communicate, whether it be with their voice, an AAC device, or sign language. We use our voices every day, and I want to help people get the chance to speak up for themselves.”
What led you to choose South?
“I chose South because of the tour of the SLP and audiology department at USA Day. The faculty, staff and students were very welcoming. They clearly explained the courses and how we would gain the knowledge to become SLPs or audiologists.”
What has your experience been like as a student at South?
“My experience at South has been amazing. The students on campus are friendly, there are hundreds of student organizations, and there is always something to do. The professors care about their students and want us to succeed. They challenge us but also help us.”
What do you like to do outside of class and studying?
“Outside of class and studying, I enjoy going on walks, listening to music, painting and crocheting.”
What are your plans after graduation?
“After graduation, I plan on going to graduate school to get my master’s degree to become an SLP.”
What advice would you offer to future speech pathology and audiology students?
“The advice I would offer to future speech pathology and audiology students is to get involved with other speech pathology and audiology students. It is important to have a support group, whether you need help in classes or just someone to talk to. Other speech pathology and audiology students know what you are going through, so they know the best way to keep you motivated and help you succeed.”
What is a fun fact about yourself?
“A fun fact about myself is that I know American Sign Language.”
MacKenzie Morrison
Major and Class Year:
Speech and Hearing Sciences, 2026
Where are you from?
Brewton, Ala.
Why have you chosen this particular profession?
“I chose this major because it aligns with my professional goal of earning a master’s degree in speech-language pathology. From the moment I first learned about the field, it captured my interest. I have always had a passion for science, medicine and teaching, and speech-language pathology offers a unique blend of all three. Most importantly, it will allow me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, particularly older adults—a group I feel strongly about supporting. I am especially drawn to working with individuals affected by aphasia and dysphagia, and I look forward to building a career where I can combine my interests with my passion for helping others.”
What led you to choose South?
“I chose the University of South Alabama because it offers everything I was looking for in a school: a knowledgeable Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, valuable transfer scholarship opportunities, and it is close to home.”
What has your experience been like as a student at South?
“My experience at South has been great! Although I have only been here for a year, I have truly enjoyed being involved on campus and participating in student Christian organizations. Being part of the Jaguar community has helped me grow both academically and personally, and I look forward to continuing my education here.”
What do you like to do outside of class and studying?
“Outside of class I enjoy having game and movie nights with friends, spending time with my family, as well as pursuing hobbies like antique shopping, fishing and recreational shooting.”
What are your plans after graduation?
“After graduation, I plan to begin a master's program in speech-language pathology.”
What advice would you offer to future speech pathology and audiology students?
“I would encourage anyone interested in speech or audiology to pursue this field. I may be a little biased, but our faculty truly care about their students' success and work hard to prepare us to be competent and confident in our careers. I would also encourage them to consider this major because it is both challenging and interesting, offering opportunities to make a real difference in people's lives.”
What is a fun fact about yourself?
“A fun fact about me is I am an only child!”
Bailey Rowlett
Major and Class Year:
Speech and Hearing Sciences, 2026
Where are you from?
Melbourne, Florida
Why have you chosen this particular profession?
“I chose to become a speech-language pathologist because I love the impact they have on people’s lives. I was drawn to this profession because I want to help children communicate and improve their quality of life. I personally have been positively affected by the great things a SLP can do. By doing speech therapy when I was younger and my grandpa receiving a form of communication when he was unable to speak, I was amazed by everything a speech-language pathologist can do and how they improve lives. I am so passionate about this field because I believe that everyone deserves to be able to communicate!”
What led you to choose South?
“I absolutely loved South’s speech and hearing program and all the University has to offer. When I toured the campus, I ultimately knew this is exactly where I wanted to go. Everyone is so welcoming and the campus is beautiful! I am so glad I chose to go to this wonderful school.”
What has your experience been like as a student at South?
“I have loved my time here at South!!! I have had the most amazing professors and have made such wonderful friends. I love all of the different opportunities to get involved and being a part of different clubs.”
What do you like to do outside of class and studying?
“I like to read, go on walks, and hang out with my friends and family!”
What are your plans after graduation?
“After graduation, I plan to go to graduate school to become a pediatric speech language pathologist!”
What advice would you offer to future speech pathology and audiology students?
“My advice is to work hard, make friends in your courses, get involved, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your college experience is what you make out of it and it flies by super quick. Enjoy every moment!”
What is a fun fact about yourself?
“I danced competitively for 13 years.”
Nan Sheek
Major and Class Year:
Speech-Language Pathology, August 2026
Where are you from?
Columbus, GA
What was your undergraduate major?
Educational Studies and Linguistics
Why have you chosen this particular profession?
“I learned about speech language pathology during undergraduate, and I was really drawn to it because I’ve always loved children, and that is a large population that SLPs work with. I want to help people communicate because everyone deserves a voice!”
What led you to choose South?
“As an out of background student, South offers a two-year program, which was very appealing when looking at graduate schools. I also loved all the teachers and the facility when I toured!”
What has your experience been like as a student at South?
“I’ve learned so much in a short amount of time, and I’ve always felt very supported by my teachers and supervisors.”
What do you like to do outside of class and studying?
“I love going out to eat, hanging out with friends, traveling, going to the beach, and reading!”
What are your plans after graduation?
“I’m not sure of the specifics yet, but I think I want to work with children and definitely to become a certified SLP!”
What advice would you offer to future speech pathology and audiology students?
“Grad school can be a bit of an adjustment from undergrad, so be prepared! Get to know your cohort and your supervisors. Work hard, study hard and don’t give up!”
What is a fun fact about yourself?
“I love dogs, and I have two English cocker spaniels named Leo and Mae!”