Austin Thompson

Why FSU?

I chose FSU because of the fantastic research faculty within the School of Communication Science and Disorders. Additionally, I saw the potential for collaboration outside of my home department within the Departments of Psychology and Statistics.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

As a speech-language pathologist, I wanted to pursue a PhD to conduct research that will help us better understand how to provide effective services when working with individuals with neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The current treatment options that we have for these populations are limited. As a clinician, I want to understand how we can better serve these individuals to help them improve their communication and quality of life.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

My research aims to contribute to the body of literature regarding diagnosing and treating individuals with motor speech disorders, such as dysarthria. I investigate the speech characteristics of individuals with and without dysarthria using acoustic and kinematic methods. My overarching career goal is to develop effective, tailored treatment techniques for speakers with dysarthria. In addition, I strive to be inclusive with my research by examining speakers of varying linguistic backgrounds.

Career aspirations

After completing my PhD, I aspire to work as an academic-researcher and professor at a research-intensive university. I am excited about the opportunity to train the next generation of clinicians and researchers within the field of speech-language pathology.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

My advice for graduate school is to consider who your mentor will be above all else (i.e., school, program, etc.). While working on a PhD, you will work closely with your mentor, so you want to ensure that you will work well with them. I have had such a great experience while working on my PhD, and it's heavily due to my mentor, Dr. Yunjung Kim, being such a wonderful person to work with.

Accomplishment during graduate career

I am proud to be a recipient of NIH NIDCD F31 Ruth L. Kirschstein Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award.