Tia Hein

Speech Language Pathologist

Speech-Language Pathology, M.S. '19

As a Speech Language Pathologist, I serve people at their most vulnerable. The professors at Biola addressed the spiritual, emotional, and mental struggles that many patients will face. After graduation and as I entered the field, I feel that I was well equipped to enter the workforce in whatever setting I chose to work.

How did your program at Biola prepare you for your career?

Biola's MS-SLP program not only provided me with clinical skills needed to be a Speech Language Pathologist, throughout the program, but my cohort and I were challenged to apply principles of our faith to various settings and clients that we would be serving. Clinically, I was extremely well prepared through the variety of internships offered. I gained experience working with ages 2-80+ while participating in my 8 different internship opportunities. Additionally, as a Speech Language Pathologist, I serve people at their most vulnerable. The professors at Biola addressed the spiritual, emotional, and mental struggles that many patients will face. After graduation and as I entered the field, I feel that I was well equipped to enter the workforce in whatever setting I chose to work.

What did you appreciate most about your time at Biola?

I appreciated the relationships that I formed during my time at Biola. Both in my undergrad and grad school programs, my fellow students were caring and collaborative. The professors at Biola truly care about students and are willing to meet outside of class time and provide additional support. I truly feel that I made lifelong friends with my fellow students and was able to connect with and be mentored by the faculty.

How did Biola equip you to be a more faithful follower of Jesus Christ?

In both my undergrad and grad programs, every professor integrated faith into the subject matter that they were teaching. This enabled me to easily integrate my faith into my daily life in a practical and meaningful way. Now, as I am working in a non-christian environment, I feel that I am able to sow the love, care and compassion of Christ to my clients on a daily basis.

What advice would you give to students considering your degree program?

For students who are interested in pursuing Speech Language Pathology, I always tell them not to give up or get discouraged with rejection. Even though our field is competitive, once you are in grad school and out in the field working, SLPs are very collaborative and supportive. It is a long road through undergrad and grad school but it is so worth it! I believe that this is one of the most fulfilling fields that one can serve in. There is not a day where I regret becoming a Speech Language Pathologist!