Speak Out June 2018

Student survey returns interesting insights

ACT/ New south wales

An informal survey was recently conducted with Speech Pathology students from USyd UoN, and ACU to find out how SPA can play a larger role in the lives of students. Sixty-four students participated in the survey. As future SPs, what can SPA do now to help you as current students? The clear front-runner selected was "someone in the field answering anonymous questions about concerns (job availability, work/life balance, possible career paths)". Eighty-five percent of students surveyed selected this as their number one choice. Students are lacking simple information about what it is like to be working in this profession; and are looking for a platform to ask questions in a judgement-free way.

Interestingly, many students would like "more opportunity to volunteer at events" and also more "informal networking opportunities". However, students did not indicate an interest in participating in the local branch meetings. Additionally, students were unaware of support networks in place for them (eg the "Early Career Podcast"). The ACT/NSW branch is keen to take on this feedback and provide support to student SPA members to help them achieve greater involvement with the organisation.

ACT 87 NSW 2502 members as at May 2018

37

June 2018 www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au

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