SLP 101

The autism volunteer experience orientation was this morning. I was nervous going into this hour-and-a-half ordeal, given that I had absolutely no idea what it would entail. In the org’s e-mail response to me, they basically said that they’re always in need of volunteers, and to show up.

I entered an off-campus university building, walking in with many other girls my age. After I followed the signs, entered the designated room, collected the various forms and handouts, and regretfully passed by the breakfast pastries, I estimated that there were over thirty of us.

Once Dr. Presenter entered the room and gave a greeting, she instructed us to briefly introduce ourselves by name and major/minor. I was shocked that there were no communication disorders undergrads. There were a lot of OT undergrads, a handful of social worker undergrads, a dash of psych undergrads, and a pinch of random undergrads - hotel and restaurant management, entrepreneurship, etc. There is the possibility that there were other potential SLPs in the room, given that I was the only one who spoke up about my graduate school plans (felt as though I had to explain my linguistics major), but I honestly don’t think so. Which is awesome, because there are two SLPs that work at the center.

THEY’RE MINE!!! ALL MINE!!!

Anyway. The hour-and-a-half orientation consisted of an “Autism 101” power point presentation and a tour of the facility. I felt as though I didn’t learn much. Not that it wasn’t informative; there was a lot of information, but it was stuff I already knew from my ABA textbooks and the autism documentaries I’ve watched. What did make me feel a little out of place is that many of the others there had relatives with autism; I do not. However, each person with autism is different, just as each neurotypical person is different. Having experience with one autistic individual is not going to prepare you for the type of interaction required for another.

I love the center’s mindset, which is about understanding, teaching, and accommodating, not “fixing” or “training”. They see autism as a different culture and appreciate the neurodiversity of the individuals, but at the same time realize the need for assistance in some cases. They have various therapy rooms, a huge gym, tutoring rooms, a waiting room (which they expressed a need to remodel and fill with entertainment; as they said: “Waiting is the enemy”), and even a haircut room.

After the orientation, I submitted my application and e-mailed the volunteer coordinator to follow up. I checked that I’d be interested in working with the kids, doing in-office stuff, or helping with social media. In my e-mail, I mentioned exactly why I was interested in working with those with autism, and also stated that I’d like to observe or assist with SLP therapy sessions if possible.

Not sure if or where I’ll be placed. I’ll be interested to see…

Today was awesome, and I feel really good about the center!