ATSU Speech-Language Pathology program student said program aligns with personal goals
Posted: March 5, 2024
For A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Health Sciences’ (ATSU-ASHS) Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) program student Andrea Sofía Bocanegra Báez, becoming a student ambassador was a choice rooted in her own experiences when applying to undergraduate institutions.
“The absence of guidance during my process, coupled with English not being my first language, presented significant challenges,” Bocanegra Báez said. “I love that I get to have the opportunity to support future SLP program graduate students who may benefit from some guidance and support from another SLP graduate student.”
Originally from Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, Bocanegra Báez received her undergraduate degree at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Her bachelor’s was in communication sciences and disorders, with minors in Spanish and counseling and community psychology.
The class of 2025 member chose the SLP program at ATSU-ASHS because of the University’s osteopathic heritage and the program’s alignment with that history in preparing students to be holistic healthcare providers.
“The emphasis on multicultural education and bilingual services, along with a commitment to addressing diversity issues, was essential for me,” she said. “The curriculum’s focus on ethical practices and evidence-based clinical approaches resonated with my goal of becoming a proficient speech-language pathologist. I believe this program will equip me to make a global impact as a future scholar and leader in the field.
“What resonates with me about this program is its dedication training culturally competent clinicians specifically for diverse populations, focusing on treating the patient as a whole.”
Bocanegra Báez is a member of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association, currently holding the position of philanthropist. Outside of class, she loves to travel, practice yoga, and go to the gym.
“I love adventure, so I am always open to try new and exciting activities,” she said.
After graduation she plans to take that adventurous spirit to the people in the community she will serve.
“As a graduate student studying to become an SLP, my professional aspiration is to become a culturally competent clinician, making a positive impact in the lives of those I serve,” she said.