I just remember thinking….I have an infant and I am going back to school, I must be crazy. After 2 years of the transitional doctorate program at A.T. Still University, all I am saying now is why did I not do this sooner!! Getting started after being out of school for 14 years was a little tough, but getting to look into new research and new technology (yes, I love that stuff) brought me back to being a student again.
How the scope of audiology has changed in the past 16 years amazes me. From the use of analog, large behind-the-ear devices to small receiver-in- the canals that can now stream music and phone conversations from a cell phone and feel like you are not wearing anything at all! Our ability to use external microphone technology for distance hearing, especially in significant background noise can only improve the signal to noise ratio for our patients. To learning about medications and how they can adversely affect hearing through gradual progression or sudden loss. To know that when a patient is concerned about losing their hearing completely, I can reassure them that through modern technology, the cochlear implant could help them gain their hearing back! And finally, how our profession can serve the needs of our patients better every day!
Now that I have completed all of my courses, I still want to keep up with the information that I have gained from my experience and may even consider more classes in the near future……maybe.
Congratulations Kristie!
Congratulations, Dr. Kristie! Your passion for serving the needs of your patients and for the field of Audiology is evident!
Alexa,
Well said! it sure is!
We’re so happy for you Kristie! You are one of a kind and I believe a super woman to have juggled a full time position at Cardinal Hearing, a family and school. Not only that but to have also gotten the amazing grades that you accomplished in your classes as well just amazes me. I have a hard time just working and cleaning my house! You can bring your super powers to my house anytime!
CONGRATULATIONS!