Meet the students from the College of Public Health and Health Professions, a diverse group dedicated to improving health and well-being in communities around the world. These students come from various backgrounds, united by their passion for health and their commitment to making a positive impact. They bring unique perspectives and experiences to their studies, preparing to become the next generation of health professionals who will address pressing health challenges and advance their field.
Meet: Anna Handley
Program: Doctor of Audiology
Hometown: Ponte Vedra Beach
Educational background: Bachelor of Science — Communication Science Disorders, Florida State University
Why did you decide to join your program?
I chose audiology because of the impact that hearing healthcare has had on my own family. My father has had hearing loss from a young age, and growing up, I experienced nothing short of a normal and amazing childhood. Ongoing support from his audiologists and advancements in hearing technology continue to allow my dad to enjoy conversations and activities, and create memories within our family and community.
My parents taught me from a young age the importance of not only advocating for myself, but also advocating for those around me, and that is exactly why I chose audiology. Driven by these family values, I dove deeper into the world of hearing healthcare at Florida State University, where I began learning more about the scope of audiology and the science behind it.
Audiologists help restore communication, strengthen relationships and improve quality of life for both patients and their loved ones through evidence-based research and care. Everyone’s “normal” looks different, and my goal is to one day be the clinician who advocates and guides her patients through their new normal so that every family finds their own sense of connection and resilience.
What have been some of your favorite moments in your program?
Some of my favorite moments in the Doctorate of Audiology program here at UF have been applying my textbook knowledge to real-world clinical experiences. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing how the science we learn in the classroom translates into meaningful improvements in our patients’ quality of life.
I would not be able to learn and grow as a student clinician without the support of my classmates, professors and preceptors. Although this path can be challenging at times, building close friendships with my classmates and having ongoing support from my professors and preceptors has made the process rewarding in more ways than one. These connections make my time in the program more fulfilling and continue to reinforce my passion for audiology. Having great mentors and sharing laughter with friends is a special part of this doctoral program, allowing you to grow not only in the clinic and the classroom but also in all areas of your life!
What do you plan to do with your degree?
With my Doctor of Audiology degree, I plan to work as a clinical audiologist serving individuals across the lifespan, from newborns to older adults and everyone in between! Some of the aspects I love most about audiology are its wide scope of services and its opportunity to work with diverse populations, each with unique communication needs and life experiences. I hope to work closely with my patients and their families by providing education, support and encouragement through every step of their journey. My goal is for every patient to leave their appointments feeling understood, empowered and supported.
I currently work as a graduate assistant for the College of Public Health and Health Professions, and I believe there may be an educational role in my future as well. I love teaching the importance of hearing healthcare, advocating for others and serving as a leader, whether that is in the classroom or in the sound booth!
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I enjoy spending quality time with my friends and family. Whether we are taking a walk, going on the boat, celebrating accomplishments or simply relaxing, I value the opportunity to build the relationships that mean the most to me. I love taking any opportunity to explore new places and gain new experiences with the people who help me recharge.
What would you like to share with others who may be considering the same program?
Embrace every opportunity to learn, ask questions and build relationships with the people around you! The Doctorate of Audiology program is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Change is OK, and allowing yourself to be adaptable to all that graduate school has to offer is an important step in the journey. For example, each course and clinical rotation will play a meaningful role in shaping you into the future clinician you want to become.
Most importantly, always remember your “why.” Whether your passion for audiology comes from a personal experience or a love for helping others, or whether you heard about our field through the grapevine, staying connected to the reason you fell in love with or became interested in audiology will help carry you through the program.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Take the risk! If you are thinking about graduate school, or audiology specifically, take the time to get to know the programs you are considering and make sure they align with your personal and professional values. The University of Florida’s Doctorate of Audiology program was exactly what I needed and wanted in a graduate program, and I am incredibly grateful for every person who has supported me throughout this journey thus far.
Remember, we all have a voice, even if we communicate it in different ways. Use it! Advocating for yourself and for others will never go unnoticed!
Want to learn more?
Learn more about the Doctor of Audiology program.
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