Academics
Testimonials
See what our alumni have shared about their experiences in the CSD program at Mount Vernon Nazarene University.
Jonah Barnett, '21
- Why did you pick MVNU's CSD program?
In short, I picked MVNU's CSD program due to the diverse curriculum and unique professional opportunities offered to undergraduate CSD students.
- Was/is it what you expected? Why?
The CSD program at MVNU was more than I expected. I entered the MVNU CSD program to become a better professional, but I was surrounded by others who invested in my undergraduate journey and personal growth. The relationships formed with CSD faculty and fellow students developed me into a more well-rounded person, professional, and Christian.
- How did the program prepare you for the graduate program?
The CSD program at MVNU prepared me to succeed in a graduate program by providing a diverse and rigorous curriculum that focuses on a holistic view of the speech-language pathology profession. The academic and professional expectations set by CSD faculty members are similar to the expectations set by competitive graduate programs. I entered my graduate program confidently due to the foundational knowledge I gained from MVNU CSD. Also, I was able to develop the interprofessional skills to communicate and collaborate with prominent individuals who drive the speech-language pathology profession forward.
- What are the benefits of the required clinic hours of the program?
The clinical hours required by the MVNU CSD program help set MVNU students apart from other undergraduate universities. I entered my clinical obligations in graduate school with a confidence level that other students did not have. My clinical supervisors felt comfortable enough with the clinical skills I learned at MVNU to assign me clients earlier than other graduate students. Due to the clinical experiences required at MVNU CSD, I found myself being invited to collaborate with other professionals and graduate students assigned to more complex cases. Furthermore, the clinical hours required by the MVNU CSD program allow students to gain first-hand experience in the roles of a speech-language pathologist that other universities cannot provide.
- What advice would you give students looking for an undergrad CSD program?
I would advise students looking for an undergraduate CSD program to find a program that values you as an individual. Be cautious of CSD programs that view their students as pieces of data rather than future professionals passionate about facilitating communication. Be willing to talk to current students, former students, and faculty to determine the values of their CSD program. Ultimately, the values of a CSD program will be a direct reflection of the professional you become. Overall, attend the CSD program that sees more potential in you than you see in yourself because that's where growth happens.
- What was your reaction when you learned the news that we ranked #5 in Ohio? Are there certain unique features of MVNU that helped the program earn the rank?
I was excited, but definitely not surprised. A unique and diverse curriculum, clinical experiences, small classroom environments, and respected faculty lead to opportunities that many other undergraduate CSD programs cannot offer prospective students. The CSD program at MVNU has gained national and state attention resulting in graduate institutions seeking out MVNU CSD undergraduate students.
Peyton Broce, '22
- Why did you pick MVNU's CSD program?
I chose MVNU's CSD program because I knew I wanted to major in Speech-Language Pathology, but I also desired to go to a Christian university. While I was also already familiar with MVNU through the Nazarene Church, I was thrilled to know they had this program. I met with Dr. Hardjono and toured the facilities and knew it was the place for me!
- Was/is it what you expected? Why?
It was mostly as I expected, and I had an overall wonderful experience.
- How did the program prepare you for the graduate program?
The program prepared me for graduate school through the courses we took and the experience through clinical. It is comforting to see that material is familiar in my current courses and I am able to be successful. My comfort in the clinic is higher than other students from other undergraduate programs because of the amount of experience MVNU gave me.
- What are the benefits of the required clinic hours of the program?
The benefits to the required clinical hours is that you are "thrown to the wolves" in undergrad rather than grad school, when everything else is more focused and difficult anyways. Having an understanding of how to write goals, prepare lesson plans, write SOAP notes and semester reports, is a huge blessing.
- What advice would you give students looking for an undergrad CSD program?
I would advise that you meet with a future program advisor or professor to ask specific questions. I would also evaluate what your more focused goal is within the field. If you prefer research, seek a program that focuses more on that rather than clinical opportunities, and vice versa. There is a difference between programs and knowing which you prefer before grad school can aid in your transition/success.
- What was your reaction when you learned the news that we ranked #5 in Ohio? Are there certain unique features of MVNU that helped the program earn the rank?
I am so excited MVNU is being recognized for its excellence. In grad school (I'm at Ball State University), NO ONE has heard of MVNU! I hope it gets more recognition so the program can continue to grow and the graduate school might get up and running. I believe the direction and dedication of Dr. Hardjono are the main reasons for this success, as well as all of the other hard-working professors. Additionally, with the small class sizes, no student was left behind, which contributes to the school's 100% placement rate for students who apply to graduate programs.