A Full-Circle Journey: SXU Graduate Turns Childhood Speech Therapy Into a Calling
Saint Xavier University (SXU) graduate student Moira McGuire's recent graduation from SXU was a special, full-circle moment. As a child, McGuire attended speech therapy at SXU's on-campus Ludden Speech and Language Clinic, and this spring, she graduated with a master's degree in speech-language pathology.
"Saint Xavier University has always held a special place in my heart. Some of my earliest memories are here -- feeding the ducks by the pond, taking family walks around campus, and even attending Queen of Martyrs gym classes on the hill. As a toddler, I was diagnosed with a speech and language disorder and began attending therapy at the Ludden Clinic when I was just 18 months old and attended for nine years. Throughout those years, the clinicians at Ludden helped me find my voice and build my confidence. They believed in that little girl, and they changed the course of my life," said McGuire.
Years later, McGuire felt like it was her calling to return to Saint Xavier as a graduate student in the very program that inspired her.
"To go from that little girl who sat in those therapy rooms to being the one conducting therapy was an experience I will never forget. Coming full circle at Saint Xavier has been one of the greatest blessings of my life, and I am forever grateful to the clinicians, professors, and mentors who helped make this dream a reality," said McGuire.
Though McGuire has always had an interest in communication sciences and disorders since it was such an important part of her life, she decided to pursue speech-language pathology when she was graduating high school in 2020. During an uncertain time in the world, she knew she wanted a career where she could help others, build meaningful relationships, and make a difference in people's lives.
"As a speech-language pathologist, my goal is to ensure that every client feels supported, seen, heard, and cared for. I hope to provide the best possible services while helping individuals build confidence in their communication abilities and achieve their personal goals. Most importantly, I want to make a positive difference in the lives of the people and families I serve," said McGuire.
McGuire believes that Saint Xavier prepared her immensely for her career and appreciates the high-impact, hands-on learning opportunities she was exposed to during her work in the clinic.
"I have never experienced such unwavering support from educators before. My professors, supervisors, and advisors not only spent countless hours teaching and mentoring us, but they also truly believed in us. They consistently went above and beyond, always offering a helping hand, encouragement, and guidance whenever we needed it. Through my coursework and clinical experiences, I had the opportunity to work with a variety of populations across the field of speech-language pathology. I gained experience working with different clients, communication needs, and treatment goals, which helped me grow both professionally and personally," said McGuire.
Most important to McGuire, SXU taught her the true meaning of being a speech pathologist – to lead with compassion, advocate for others, build meaningful relationships, and make a lasting impact in the lives of clients and their families.
During her time at SXU, McGuire was involved in the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA) and also volunteered at the Polar Plunge. Her favorite memories include the relationships and friendships she built with her cohort.
"Graduate school is challenging, and getting to experience those two years together made it incredibly special. From walking to class together, studying for exams, celebrating milestones, and supporting one another through the highs and lows of the program, I am so thankful for them! The lifelong friendships I gained are something I will always cherish. Beyond the education and clinical experiences, it was the people and the sense of community at Saint Xavier that made my graduate school journey so meaningful and unforgettable," said McGuire.
This fall, McGuire will join Midlothian School District 143 as a school specch0-language pathologist.
"SXU's graduate program in speech-language pathology has truly made a difference in my life. I highly recommend it to anyone considering this career path. I will forever be grateful for how Saint Xavier helped me grow into a speech-language pathologist and the impact it has had on my journey."