Hi Danielle,
Yeah I was pretty sure it was you I heard talking to some other people but wasn't sure whether to disturb you or not. Oh I am so delighted you got an offer and it just proves your interview didn't go badly. I can only imagine what conflicting opinions and emotions you are having about deciding between Limerick and London. You've to decide by March with Limerick isn't it? Well only you can decide which is the best for you and I am sure you will do fantastically no matter where you go! Although, it would be nice to see someone from home over in London I must say!
Hi Charlotte,
My bachelors degree is in Linguistics and Sociology so would obviously have the language background with Linguistics and the research background with Sociology. I spent 2 days a week for a year shadowing an independent SLT who worked in a school for children with autism. She also was the resident SLT in my area for Down syndrome Ireland so I had contact with various different clients with Down syndrome. I organised, co-ordinated and conducted a playgroup for 3 non-verbal boys with Down syndrome for about 2 months. I also have a TEFL qualification as I thought it would benefit for L2 learners. I've theoretical courses dealing with autism and I am Lámh trained (Irish equialent of Makaton) and I have a qualification in Special Needs Assistant.
In comparison to other people on the forum I felt that I didn't have a broad enough range of experience or a decent length of time spent volunteering. I would suggest that you don't compare your experience to others, which I know is difficult, but the interviewers seem to be more interested in what you have gained from the experience more so than anything.
Chin up and think positively.
All the best,
Lauren