Thank you Nick Arra, Au.D., CCC-A, for sharing these insights with us about your journey to audiology and your educational and career experiences.
Why did you pick the AuD track?
I have bilateral SNHL since childhood related to enlarged vestibular aqueducts (EVA). When I was a freshman in college, I was originally studying physical therapy. I realized quickly that this profession was not a good match for me. When I was searching for a new major, I learned about communication sciences and disorders and had a lightbulb moment that becoming an audiologist made sense given my experience as a patient. I wanted to specialize in pediatrics as I had access to strong and consistent care at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).
Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give to your younger self when choosing and applying to AuD programs?
To be honest, I would not change my goal during the AuD application process. If anything, I would emphasize that if finances are a priority for the current/future applicant, to seek AuD programs that offer competitive funding and tuition reduction/waivers. To be frank, salaries in audiology could be higher given length of education and paying for an expensive AuD education may not be financially strategic. I applied to a range of schools that were well known/”higher ranked” such as Syracuse and Tennessee, but also looked at South Dakota. It was not an easy decision, but I chose South Dakota because of excellent funding/graduate assistantship opportunities. To most people, I graduated from an “unranked/unknown program”, but I finished with far less debt. It was a life-changing experience moving to South Dakota, but I received a great education academically and clinically, and still landed a competitive 4th year placement and current job. The point is, it is possible to attend a lesser known/cheaper program and still be successful. Out of respect, each applicant has their own priorities and preferences for selecting an AuD program, but I wanted to share mine.
What advice would you give to a student in clinical placement?
Always remember that you are a student and learning is the priority. You are not expected to be perfect and asking questions is important. Establish a good working relationship with your supervisor so you may increase your comfort level around them. You will be learning from this person and you have to optimize your learning environment. Most of my supervisors/preceptors were wonderful, but I had a few that I felt less comfortable around. Do not be afraid to ask questions and be receptive to feedback. Supervisors appreciate working with students who value feedback and are willing to learn and make adjustments in their skill sets.
How did you arrive at your particular practice setting?
As I mentioned previously, I was a pediatric audiology patient. I received care at CHOP between 3-18 years of age. Once I was in graduate school, I confirmed that I wanted to be a pediatric audiologist. My ultimate goal was to return to CHOP as an audiologist. I graduated in 2018 and found a job in Bethlehem, PA. About 9 months into my professional career, CHOP was hiring and I was fortunate to earn a position there. I will be coming up on 5 years of service in May!
How did your identity (queerness, ability status, etc) influence your education journey, if at all?
I did not come to terms with this part of my identity until after my education. I will say though, my colleagues at CHOP are absolutely wonderful. They are inclusive and accepting, and I don’t feel any different or less than having this part of my identity known to them.
How has your identity shaped your ethos as a clinician and your practice?
I think that this part of my identity has allowed to me further appreciate all walks of life and people of different backgrounds. Diversity comes in many forms and my own experience has allowed me to have a greater appreciation and willingness to learn about other peoples’ cultures and personal experiences. When I evaluate and work with patients and their families, my priority is there audiologic care.
How do you envision the future of audiology? What are your hopes for the field?
I know there are many things evolving in today’s digital age with technological advancements. Such things include AI and over-the-counter hearing aids. Fortunately, I see pediatric audiology remaining as a necessity. My hope for the field is to add remote care in pediatric audiology where it would be deemed beneficial.
LGBTQ+ CSDSA 