What year did you start the program?
2023
List your prior degrees and institutions
BA, Communication Sciences and Disorders, West Chester University, West Chester, PA
MS, Speech-Language Pathology, MGH Institute of Health Professions, Boston, MA
What is your current research setting(s), mentor’s name and name of lab?
Mentor: Jarrad Van Stan, PhD, CCC-SLP
Lab: MGH Center for Laryngeal Surgery and Voice Rehabilitation at Massachusetts General Hospital
What is your current research focused on (please provide a brief summary statement in layman’s terms?
My current research is focused on using an interdisciplinary framework called the Rehabilitation Treatment Specification System (RTSS) to describe the active ingredient and desired changes in patient functioning present within evidence-based voice therapy protocols and standard care clinical practice. My research is also focused on using these descriptions to determine similarities and differences between different research protocols and to develop tools that can be used to implement the RTSS framework into clinical documentation, research reporting, and clinical education.
What do you think is special about the PhD in RS program here at IHP?
Aspects of the PhD program I find special include the interdisciplinary nature of the program, the opportunities to work with innovative researchers and clinicians across Mass General Brigham, and the wide range of elective coursework with an ability to individualize elective courses that align with your interests and career goals.
Why did you choose to come to this program rather than a doctoral research program in your specific profession?
I chose the PhD program here at the IHP because it provides me with the opportunity to work with and learn from leaders both within my area of interest / clinical expertise as well as leaders within other rehabilitation disciplines. Through my previous time here in the master’s program at the IHP and my previous clinical experience working within an interdisciplinary voice center, I know the value of interprofessional learning and collaboration.
What are your goals for the future after you graduate?
I hope to obtain a clinical research position at a voice center in order to conduct and disseminate clinically relevant research.