What was your inspiration to study SLP? Why did you choose or why are you choosing Speech-Language Pathology as your career?

I know a similar topic was created a year ago. I noticed we've got some new users, even some undergraduates and post-baccalaureates. I'm interested in hearing new stories.

I'll talk about mine again. I have a twin who has CP due to a brain injury. Nonverbal with the language skills, I'd say, at the 6 mos level. This is my number one inspiration.

I've always had receptive language problems and had been in speech therapy from preschool to middle school. Possibly some mild APD. I'm much better now, though! Of course, this spiked my interest in language.

At around 11 or 12, I became crazy about languages, language / anthropology, Asian languages, Arabic languages, linguistics. I also loved volunteering at hospitals and helping people; I get off on that! ... But I knew I didn't want to be a nurse or doctor despite my traditional parent's encouragements. I considered engineering, nursing, medicine, linguistics, teaching, psychology/counseling. But after speaking to a school adviser, taking a few personality quizzes, and Google searches, I finally found Speech-Language Pathology.

Working as an SLPA, I know this is for me. Seeing the progress in children and adults is heartwarming, and being so involved in their lives gives me purpose.

Please share your story, and if you feel like you already have, don't hesitate to share it again!

Edit:

It doesn't necessarily have to be deemed 'inspiring'. I just want to show the array of personalities and backgrounds that have chose this field. Don't think you can't get in because you don't have some sappy sob story!