A Day in the Life of a student in the Communication Disorders Master Program

After graduating from Richard Stockton College of New Jersey In May 2013, I decided to return to Stockton College to pursue my Masters Degree in Communication Disorders to further my Speech-Language Pathology knowledge and eventually become a Speech-Language Pathologist.

When I began this program, I didn't know what to expect.  I knew it would be harder than undergraduate studies, but I wasn't aware of what the work would be like; the professors were new, the information was new, my classmates were new.  I tried not to worry about the difficulty and amount of work until I was actually in the swing of things, relaxing all summer and working as a waitress to save up some money for this semester.

I was obviously very nervous starting the program, but my fear was alleviated once I started my classes, met my professors, peers, and started the work.  This is where it all would start, two and a half years of graduate studies and on my way to a Speech-Language Pathology career.

This semester, I am taking a total of 9 credits, three classes that each meet once a week on either Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday.  So three classes, only at night, only once a week, sounds like a piece of cake, right?  Wrong.  Pretty much every day I am reading at least two chapters for my upcoming classes, answering homework questions, or writing papers and reports.  When I am not reading or writing for my classes, I spend time reviewing my notes incase we have pop-quizzes, making note-cards to prepare for questions in class and trying to re-read my chapters incase I get randomly chosen in class to answer a question on the spot.  It is so important to read for each class because our professors want to be 100% confident that you understand the information and internalize it enough to explain it to the class and professor, and you WILL be put on the spot to do this in front of the entire class.

Don't get me wrong, I still make time for socializing; seeing my friends, going home to see my family, but I just have to budget my time and even my money more as the semester goes on.  Staying organized and planning my time helps me stay focused and one-step ahead in my classes.  It is important to not get too stressed, take a deep breath, take a step away from the work and enjoy yourself every now and then.  Going for walks, taking time to watch a little TV or listen to music has helped me relax a little between my workload.  Balance in your life is important for success.

(On a walk at Lake Fred, I am on the left :) )

Below, there is a picture of my planner for the month of October.  Each week day (different class) is organized by color-coordinated highlights for assignments due and and non-highlighted notes for readings due.  It is a little overwhelming, but with the help of organization, the support of my friends & family and a lot of coffee, I will do just fine!

- Kaitlyn