Help! I’m finally finishing up my master’s program but need assistance in first steps for applying to my clinical fellowship
If only job applications were as easy as the picture above. Applying for jobs can be tough, especially your first one as a clinical fellow. Hopefully this checklist will facilitate your job application process!
- First thing’s first. You’ll have to apply for a temporary license for the state that you’ll be working in. When I was applying for my CF, I wasn’t bound to a geographic location since it was more important for me to be working in my preferred clinical setting. I ended up applying for a couple of states’ temporary licenses. The application for each state is different, but for most states it’s just a couple of forms to fill out (some portions require your CF supervisor and/or boss to fill out) and a fee. They also might require you to verify your enrollment in your graduate program. You can usually submit a request online from your university and have it mailed it directly to the state board of education. On average, it takes between four to six weeks to process after you submit your application.
- If you’re worried about not having taken the Praxis, don’t fret! I believe you have one year from your graduation date to take the Praxis and submit your scores to ASHA for your Certification of Clinical Competence. However, I would recommend to try to take it while you’re still in school so all of the information is fresh.
- Some states require Basic Life Support/CPR certification to practice (e.g. the state of New York does not it, but Illinois does). I would recommend making sure your certification is up-to-date.
- If you’re working with children, the state of New York also requires a separate certification, the Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities (TSSLD). This certification may be required depending on which clinical setting you are working in.
- Apply before graduation!! I’m sure you’re already hearing this from your professors and clinical faculty, and maybe you’re already applying now, but applying for a job takes time. My previous clinic director advised to start applying three months prior to your targeted start date.
- Indeed, Monster, and Glassdoor all have job postings, so I would recommend looking on those websites.
- If you’re looking for a hospital position, each hospital and/or their respective company will post job opportunities on their respective websites as well.
- Reconnecting with old professors and/or mentors to maybe see if they know of or have job positions available.
Applying to jobs, let alone a CFY can be a frustratingly long process! Take a deep breath and take your time with it! And try not to compare yourself to other classmates. It took me several months post-graduation to find the right CFY suitable for me and I’m grateful I didn’t just commit to the first opportunity that I found.