Nikki E

What got you interested in working as a speech therapist?

I was a first-grade teacher and worked with a lot of English Language Learners, which is where I really developed a passion for helping children find and use their voices. I loved using literacy to help students build the skills and confidence to express themselves and advocate for what they needed. When I discovered speech-language pathology, I immediately connected with the field’s focus on communication and evidence-based practices. I knew it was a way I could continue helping children develop their voices, which ultimately inspired me to go back to school to become an SLP.

What is your favorite memory of being an SLP?

My favorite thing about being an SLP is building strong relationships with my patients. I love when a child feels safe enough with me to try something new or challenging, be silly, and attempt things they may have previously felt discouraged from trying. That connection and trust are what I love most about this job.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I love to hike, read, cook, be with family and friends, and of course spend time with my cat, Millie!

What is something most people don’t know about you?

I am scuba dive certified.

What is your favorite activity to encourage learning and growth with kids?

I love recommending wordless picture books to families. Reading time is such a special opportunity for connection, and wordless books take the pressure off having to read every word. Instead, children can explore the pictures, comment, ask questions, and be curious. It can lead to such a natural “language explosion” while also building early literacy skills, problem-solving, anticipation, and making inferences.