Recent graduates shared their favorite Appalachian State University memories and any words of advice they would give to someone beginning their collegiate journey at App State. Students were selected by their department chairpersons based on their accomplishments and the ways they achieve the Beaver College of Health Sciences' mission of "taking health to new heights."
Hannah McLaughlin
“When I visited App State for Scholars’ Weekend I felt like I was surrounded by a supportive community of faculty, staff, and students. I also learned that undergraduate students have the opportunity to actively participate in clinical programs which seems unique,” said Hannah McLaughlin, a native of Gastonia, N.C., who is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a minor in Psychology.
“Hands-on learning is my favorite way to learn, and at App State, I’ve worked in a variety of fields and formed interdisciplinary connections. My time in the Theater and Therapy clinical program, as a Resident Assistant with University Housing, and in multiple club organizations like Dementia Awareness and Appalachian Popular Programming Society (APPS) created some of my favorite college memories.”
This fall, McLaughlin will pursue a master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at UNC-Greensboro with the goal of becoming a speech-language pathologist.
What advice would you give to a new student?
“Time management is something that you will hear a lot about in college. I found it important to not only think about managing my classes and assignments, but also my mental health and wellbeing. Make sure to make time for your community, for your support systems, and for yourself. This helped to set me up for success as classes got more complex and as I started applying to graduate schools.”
Lauren Northrup
Lauren Northrup, a native of Peoria, Illinois, is graduating with a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology. After graduation she plans to help children with speech and language disorders in the Greensboro/Winston Salem area.
“I really valued the smaller class sizes in the program at App State because it allowed me to have a more intimate learning experience and chance to get to know my professors better,” said Northrup. “ I have fond memories of meeting new friends and learning from and with them. They've helped me grow as a clinician.”
What advice would you give to a new student?
“I think the best advice I could give new students would be to give themselves grace as they move through the program. I had to learn that assignments couldn’t always be done perfectly, articles couldn’t always be thoroughly dissected, and therapy activities couldn’t always be the most engaging. There is a difference between doing your best and trying to do things perfectly. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so make sure to take care of yourself along the way. It will benefit you and your future clients.”
Hannah McLaughlin, B.S. Communication Sciences and Disorders, '22 and Lauren Northrup, M.S. Speech-Language and Pathology, '22, share memories and advice.
