Hi friends and family,

As many of you know, I chose to pursue my master's in speech-language pathology at Loma Linda University (LLU), in California. After being accepted and visiting several grad schools, I was very torn in choosing which grad program would be the best fit for me. I made extensive lists of the pros and cons comparing several wonderful programs. I then realized that LLU's unique opportunity to serve on a mission trip to China could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me to strengthen my clinical skills, cultural competence, and spirituality, all while providing service to a country in great need. I had made my decision: I was moving to California. Growing up in Illinois, I did not know a soul on the west coast, which was very intimidating for me. I was also reminded that attending LLU did not guarantee me the opportunity to serve on a mission trip to China; I would have to apply, interview, and be chosen from a group of equally qualified peers. Although I was incredibly nervous about moving to California, and I knew the disappointment I would feel if I were not chosen for the China trip, I had faith that what was meant to be would be. The graduate program at LLU has turned out to be the perfect fit for me, and when I received my acceptance for the China trip, I was thrilled beyond words! I AM GOING TO CHINA THIS SUMMER :D

I could not be more excited for this incredible experience of learning and service. The trip will be between 15-19 days, beginning at the end of August. While in China, my peers and I will be spending a majority of our time at the Children’s Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine (ZUCH), located in Hangzhou. We will have the opportunity to educate hospital staff, clinicians, and teachers on topics including typical child speech and language development, assessment, and treatment of communication disorders. Our group will work with clients with a variety of needs and their families, alongside a translator. We will also be providing accent modification services to help staff become more clearly understood when speaking English. A clear list of these objectives and more can be found below.

I am so very blessed to have been chosen for this trip. Any contribution made, even in the smallest amount, would bring me one step closer to transforming this dream of mine into a reality. Thank you in advance, for your consideration and support. I appreciate it dearly.

Sincerely yours,
Cassidey








SAHP Communication Sciences & Disorders Mission Trip

The Communication Sciences and Disorders Program is excited to offer its students the opportunity to serve on a mission trip to China. The primary goals and objectives of this trip include:

1. Provide training/educational workshops to ZUCH staff, as well as other clinicians and teachers from special education schools.
2. Provide consultation and collaboration with clients that are seen at ZUCH.
3. Provide accent modification services to staff at ZUCH.
4. Provide parent education course regarding speech and language development
5. Visit Special Education School for Autism and provide education/training/mentoring to staff and parents.

Our program is committed to training students with a global perspective who are committed to service. To learn more about this unique mission trip, please visit: http://alliedhealth.llu.edu/service/mission-projects/communication-science-disorders-china