Aspen is student teaching with Leigha this year and is headed into the world of speech therapy. I really just think this world is fascinating and I love hearing people who are passionate about what they do share about why they do what they do.

Meet Aspen!

What’s your name, what are you studying, and what’s your current vibe this semester?

I’m Aspen, and I am currently in my second year of grad school and studying Speech-Language Pathology! My current vibe this semester is actually pretty calm (it’s usually a pretty stressed-out vibe lol) because it’s my last semester of school EVER!!

Describe your ideal studying setup. Where are you, what’s around you, what are you using?

My ideal study setup is definitely a student space at the MSU library. You can rent a room to study in, but the whole library has a very chill vibe which is vital for studying. I also really love going to local coffee shops when I’m doing more low-key studying. It’s always fun to order a coffee as a little treat once I do a set amount of studying. I usually just use my laptop to review lectures, but sometimes I find it’s helpful to write down what I already remember from a lecture in a notebook and then add to it as I review.

Are you a silence person or playlist person when you study? What’s your go-to “locked in” music?

I have to have silence when studying; my brain can’t focus with music! I’ve always wanted to be able to listen to classical or instrumental music while studying, but I just can’t do it!

Snack/drink: What’s your must-have study snack or drink?

Definitely some form of caffeine! I usually go for a coffee or an Alani depending on the length of studying I plan to do.

What are you reading right now, or what’s a book you always recommend?

I LOVE reading, so I’ll give you an answer for both! I’m currently re-reading Interview with the Vampire, which is the perfect gothic romance novel if that’s your vibe. I love all genres and love to switch it up book-to-book. I always recommend Weyward if someone asks for a recommendation though. This is one of my favorite books of all time!

How do you plan your week in the way that works best for you?

A physical planner!! I’ve tried using digital calendars and it’s not for me. I plan my week out using my planner and add tasks as the week goes on. I love checking stuff off as I go and it lets me structure my week so there’s not too much work on one particular day.

What’s one routine that actually helps your life feel more steady?

I’m TERRIBLE at routines! I actually need all the recommendations I can get haha

What’s a habit you need in your life to feel like you?

I set aside time to read each day before bed, and I love that I’ve picked this habit up! I avoid scrolling on my phone, which is great, and I look forward to this time alone doing something I love.

What do you do when you’re stressed but still have to show up?

One of my favorite quotes, even though it’s super cheesy, is “do it scared”. If I’m feeling stressed or worried about something, I think about this quote, and then I just tell myself that I’m going to do my best, and that’s all I can do. It usually works out just fine, and I end up wondering why I was so stressed in the first place!

What are you passionate about?

I’m actually super passionate about the field I’m studying right now! I’m doing my externship right now, and I’m loving it! I’m very passionate about the patients/students that I’m seeing, and I love seeing their progress in each therapy session.

What do you wish you knew at 18?

That you don’t have to have everything figured out! There’s so much pressure to have a life plan, but it’s SO hard when you haven’t had much life experience. I wish that I had given myself some grace when trying to figure out my college/life plan.

What are you genuinely happy about right now?

I am genuinely happy about my academic life right now! I have passed all of my big scary exams that I need to graduate and get my license, so it’s smooth sailing right now for me! I am also excited about presenting my research soon!

Fun questions:

Current song on repeat?

I have two right now that I’m obsessed with! “Porch Light” by Noah Kahan (SO excited for his new album) and “Are You Listening Yet?” by Harry Styles.

Favorite “reset” thing to do?

My favorite “reset” is actually cooking a really good dinner on Sunday and watching some of my comfort shows before the week starts. I do laundry on Sunday as well, so I feel like it’s a good reset and start to the week.

Current fixation drink/snack/meal?

My current fixation is a Caesar salad with lemon chicken. I have made it so many times in the past week, and it’s delicious every time! It’s a great warm-weather meal, and it’s making me so excited for Summer!

One thing you’re looking forward to this semester?

GRADUATION!! I am so excited that I’m almost done with school for forever!

Real College Life with Aspen | Speech Therapy Student Teaching