Drs. Selena Snowden and Chelsea Alexander accompanied nine undergraduate students from the School of Communication Science and Disorders (SCSD) to the annual American Academy of Audiology (AAA) + HearTech Expo conference from March 26 – 29 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Snowden, who also serves as the Director of Audiology Services at the FSU Speech and Hearing Clinic, describes how the AAA conference has allowed her to “stay up to date on the latest research in audiology, including new techniques, treatments, and

technological innovations…I am able to explore new ways to get involved in shaping the future of audiology through local and national advocacy.”

For the students, the AAA + HearTech Expo was a chance to learn about graduate programs in communication science and disorders and gain a first-hand look into the programs cultures and what they should expect from graduate school.

Students also had opportunities to connect with professionals in the field. Hannah Figueras, an SCSD student, describes how it was “an opportunity to network with audiologists and graduate students, and exposure to different hearing aid technologies.” Fellow student Eva Gegovski stated, “I was able to learn so much through research panels, clinician experiences, and different hearing technology. This deepened my understanding of the advancements in audiology that continue to progress. As a student that aspires to be a clinician, it is essential to understand how the field will develop, especially with the use of AI.”

“I hope this conference further ignites their passion for hearing healthcare and continues to be a valuable resource to them in the future. It is my hope that witnessing the passion of others in the field and the impact audiology has on people’s lives inspires them for their future,” Snowden said.