Introduction: Starting Strong as a New SLP Grad

Beginning a career as a speech-language pathologist is both an exciting and pivotal milestone. For every new SLP grad, this transition marks the culmination of years of academic preparation and the beginning of professional practice. It is a moment worth recognizing and approaching with intention.

The Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) plays a vital role in this transition. As the bridge between graduate training and independent licensure, the CFY offers essential hands-on experience, professional mentorship, and the opportunity to strengthen clinical decision-making in real-world settings. It is a foundational phase that shapes the trajectory of your career.

Although ASHA certification requirements for the CFY are widely followed, it’s important to understand that each state has its own licensure rules. Some align closely with ASHA’s standards, while others have different processes or timelines. Before applying for your CFY, always review your specific state’s licensure requirements to ensure you meet all necessary criteria.

This guide is meant to encourage and equip new SLP grads as they take their first steps into the field. It offers practical advice on how to find your first SLP job, including resume tips, interview strategies, and guidance on choosing opportunities that align with your long-term goals. Whether you’re pursuing a school-based role, a clinical fellowship in a medical setting, or something in between, you’ll find actionable strategies to help you navigate the job search process with confidence and clarity.

 

Understanding the CFY and Why It Matters

What Is the Clinical Fellowship Year for a New SLP Grad?

For every new SLP grad, the Clinical Fellowship Year, or CFY, is a critical step in the transition from graduate student to independent professional. It is a required experience for obtaining the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) through ASHA. While many state licensure boards follow ASHA’s CFY standards, not all of them do. It is essential to check with your individual state’s licensing board to confirm the specific requirements before starting your fellowship.

Why the CFY Matters in Your SLP Career

The CFY is a paid, mentored professional experience that allows a new SLP grad to strengthen their clinical skills while providing direct services to clients. According to ASHA, the fellowship must include at least 36 weeks and 1,260 hours of clinical work, with a minimum of 80 percent of that time spent in direct clinical contact. Fellows receive ongoing feedback from a qualified supervisor who holds current CCC-SLP certification throughout the entire experience.

This structured supervision ensures that new clinicians are supported as they build independence and confidence. It also provides the documentation and evaluation needed to move forward with national certification and, in many cases, state licensure.

We strongly recommend that new SLP grads complete their CFY in person whenever possible. Direct, face-to-face interaction with clients and supervisors offers richer learning experiences and better prepares you for the complexities of clinical work. In-person settings also tend to provide more consistent mentorship, immediate feedback, and collaborative team environments that are harder to replicate virtually.

What Qualifies as a CFY Speech Therapy Job?

Not every job in speech-language pathology meets the requirements of a clinical fellowship. A qualifying CFY speech therapy position must offer consistent supervision, opportunities for direct client care, and alignment with ASHA’s performance standards. Many positions in public schools, hospitals, outpatient clinics, and skilled nursing facilities meet these requirements. Still, it is essential to confirm the specific details with both your potential employer and your state board.

The supervisor must be certified through ASHA (CCC-SLP) and actively involved in mentoring. In addition, at least 36 supervisory feedback sessions must occur, including six formal observations of direct client interaction.

Tips for the Clinical Fellowship Year SLP Job Search

The clinical fellowship year SLP job search can feel overwhelming, but knowing what to look for can make the process more manageable. As you begin your CFY speech therapy application process, ask clear and specific questions. Confirm that supervision meets ASHA standards, clarify how often feedback will be provided, and make sure your caseload supports the required hours and client interaction.

Each SLP CFY job application is a chance to better understand your future role and evaluate whether the setting aligns with your clinical interests and long-term goals. For a new SLP grad, the CFY is more than a stepping stone, it is the start of a meaningful and sustainable career in speech-language pathology.

 

Where to Look for Your First SLP Job

Common Settings for SLP Clinical Fellowships

As a new SLP grad beginning your job search, one of the first steps is identifying the type of setting that fits your interests and goals. The field of speech-language pathology offers a variety of work environments, each with its own pace, population, and clinical focus.

Many graduates begin their clinical fellowship year in public or private schools. These positions allow you to support children with a wide range of speech and language needs, collaborate with educators, and follow a predictable schedule aligned with the academic calendar. Some school-based roles also offer mentorship programs specifically designed for clinical fellows.

Hospitals and acute care settings are another option, especially for those interested in adult populations or medical speech-language pathology. These jobs often involve patients with complex communication or swallowing disorders. However, they may require previous medical internship experience and can be more competitive for new SLP grads.

Skilled nursing facilities, or SNFs, frequently hire clinical fellows. These settings provide experience with geriatric populations, cognitive-communication disorders, and swallowing therapy. While the pace can be demanding, the exposure to medically fragile patients can be valuable.

Outpatient clinics are also common for CFY placements. These facilities may focus on pediatrics, adults, or both. Caseloads are often diverse, and some clinics provide one-on-one mentorship for new clinicians.

Telepractice is a growing field, offering remote opportunities for service delivery. Some companies offer structured CFY support and supervision, although it is essential to confirm that all ASHA requirements can be met virtually.

Where to Find CFY Jobs in Speech Therapy

The job search for speech pathologists during the clinical fellowship year can take time. Understanding the SLP job search timeline helps you plan ahead and apply early. Many school districts begin hiring as early as January or February for the following academic year. Medical and private settings may post openings year-round, but competition can be high in certain regions or specialties.

As a new SLP grad, start your search by reaching out to clinical instructors, supervisors, or professional mentors who may have connections. Networking through your graduate program or state speech-language-hearing association can also lead to job leads. Attending job fairs, especially those hosted by universities or state associations, is another valuable way to meet potential employers.

It’s important to apply early, but also take the time to research each opportunity carefully. Make sure the setting aligns with your clinical interests, provides adequate supervision, and meets the certification requirements for a valid CFY experience.

Best Websites for SLP CFY Job Listings

There are several trusted platforms that specialize in speech-language pathology job listings, including CFY opportunities. These sites allow you to filter by location, setting, and experience level. Some also allow you to upload your resume and set job alerts.

Here are some of the top websites to support your SLP job search:

• ASHA Career Portal – The most targeted platform for CFY positions and other speech-language pathology roles.

• Indeed – Offers a wide range of listings. Use keywords like “SLP Clinical Fellow” or “SLP CFY” to narrow your search.

• EDJOIN – A common site for school-based SLP jobs in California and other states.

• SLPJobs.com – Includes CFY listings across a variety of settings.

• LinkedIn – Helpful for job searching, networking, and connecting with recruiters who specialize in SLP placements.

• State Speech-Language-Hearing Association websites – Many have job boards specific to your state or region.

• District and healthcare system websites – Some positions are only posted directly through school districts or hospital HR portals.

The job search for speech pathologists can feel overwhelming at first, but using the right tools and starting early will give you a strong advantage. For a new SLP grad, the key is to stay organized, set realistic goals, and remain open to a variety of settings.

As you move through the SLP job search timeline, trust that the right position will align with both your skills and your growth as a clinician.

 

Building a Standout Resume as a New Grad

Writing a resume as a new SLP grad can feel daunting, especially when you’re entering the field for the first time. The good news is that you already have relevant training and experience to showcase. The key is organizing your resume in a way that highlights your strengths, clinical readiness, and professional potential.

What to Include in an SLP Resume as a New SLP Grad

Start with a concise summary at the top of your resume. This should introduce who you are, what you’re looking for, and what you bring to the role. Keep it focused, and tailor it to the specific position when possible.

Next, include your education. Be sure to list your graduate and undergraduate degrees in reverse chronological order. Include the name of the university, degree earned, and date of graduation. If you had a particularly strong academic focus, such as bilingual speech therapy or medical SLP, you can include that as well.

After your education section, move into your clinical experience. This is where your practicum and externship placements should be clearly outlined. For each setting, include the name of the facility, location, dates, and the population served. Use bullet points to describe the types of evaluations, treatments, and interdisciplinary collaboration you engaged in. Be specific about the disorders you treated and the therapy approaches you used.

Even though these experiences occurred during graduate school, they are central to your qualifications as a new SLP grad. Employers understand that these rotations are where you developed your hands-on skills.

If you held any part-time jobs, volunteer roles, or leadership positions during school, include them in a separate section. While these may not be directly clinical, they show professionalism, time management, and collaboration—skills that matter in every setting.

How to Highlight Clinical Rotations and Soft Skills

When writing about your clinical experiences, avoid simply listing tasks. Instead, use action-oriented language that reflects your growth and initiative. For example, rather than saying “Observed group therapy sessions,” you could write “Planned and co-led group language therapy for preschool-aged children under supervision.”

Soft skills are especially important for a new SLP grad. Employers are not only looking for technical competence but also for individuals who are adaptable, organized, and communicative. You can emphasize these qualities in your bullet points, or include a brief skills section that lists traits such as teamwork, flexibility, time management, and cultural competence.

Including relevant technology skills, such as familiarity with electronic medical records or teletherapy platforms, can also strengthen your resume.

Common Resume Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to resume tips for new SLPs, one of the most common mistakes is including too much detail. Keep your resume to one page if possible, and only include experiences that are relevant to speech-language pathology or demonstrate strong transferable skills.

Another common issue is using overly generic language. Avoid phrases like “worked with clients” or “helped during sessions.” Instead, describe your specific role, what you accomplished, and what you learned.

Make sure your resume is free of typos, inconsistent formatting, or outdated information. These small errors can create a negative impression, especially in a competitive SLP CFY job application process.

Finally, while it may not be realistic to tailor every single resume, aim to customize when possible, especially for positions that strongly align with your goals. Using keywords from the job posting, reordering bullet points to reflect the setting, or adjusting your summary can help show that you understand the role and the organization’s needs. Even small changes can make your application feel more intentional and relevant.

As a new SLP grad, your resume is your first introduction to potential employers. It should reflect not only your training and experience, but also your attention to detail and your enthusiasm for the field. With the right focus and structure, your resume can open the door to a clinical fellowship that supports your goals and sets the tone for your future career.

Quick Resume Tips for New SLP Grads

When building your resume, keep these key points in mind:

• Start with a clear and tailored professional summary

• List your education in reverse chronological order

• Highlight clinical rotations with setting, population, and specific responsibilities

• Use action verbs to describe your role and impact during practicum experiences

• Include soft skills such as communication, flexibility, and collaboration

• Add relevant technology skills or experience with documentation systems

• Keep your resume concise and aim for one page whenever possible

• Avoid generic language and overly broad descriptions

• Proofread carefully for typos and formatting issues

• When possible, customize your resume for each job application

 

Acing the Interview as a First-Time Applicant

As a new SLP grad, stepping into your first interview can feel intimidating, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to showcase your knowledge, professionalism, and potential. While you may not have years of experience, you do have valuable training, hands-on practicum work, and a genuine commitment to the field. With the right preparation and mindset, you can leave a lasting impression and move one step closer to securing a strong clinical fellowship placement. The following guidance offers practical SLP job interview advice tailored specifically for first-time applicants entering the profession.

Common SLP Interview Questions and How to Prepare

For a new SLP grad, the interview is an opportunity to show not only what you know, but how you’re ready to learn and grow in the field. While your resume may reflect limited experience, your preparation and professionalism during the interview can set you apart.

Before your interview, take time to review common questions asked during the hiring process for speech-language pathologists. Employers often begin with general questions such as, “Why did you choose speech-language pathology?” or “What are you looking for in your clinical fellowship experience?” From there, they may ask about specific clinical experiences, your approach to collaboration, and how you manage challenging behaviors or complex cases.

It’s helpful to practice answering these questions out loud. Think through a few examples from your clinical rotations where you worked closely with a team, adapted your therapy approach, or received valuable feedback from a supervisor. Even if the setting was a university clinic or school-based practicum, these examples show your readiness and insight as a clinician.

Bringing a few thoughtful questions of your own also shows initiative. You might ask about the supervision structure, the types of clients you would serve, or the opportunities for continued professional development.

Explaining Limited Experience with Confidence

One of the biggest concerns for a new SLP grad is how to address a lack of professional experience. The truth is, interviewers expect this. What matters more is your ability to reflect on your clinical education and speak confidently about what you’ve learned.

Focus on your practicum and externship placements. Describe the settings, client populations, and types of therapy you provided. Use clear, confident language, and emphasize your eagerness to grow. Phrases like, “While I am early in my career, I’ve had strong hands-on experience with…” or “In my externship, I led sessions focused on…” help position you as prepared and capable.

If you’re asked about a skill you haven’t had a chance to develop yet, be honest. Then pivot to how you plan to build that skill and how open you are to feedback. This kind of self-awareness is often more valuable to employers than pretending to know everything.

Dressing Professionally for In-Person or Virtual Interviews

First impressions matter. Whether your interview is in person or online, how you present yourself should reflect professionalism and respect for the opportunity.

For in-person interviews, choose simple, business-professional clothing in neutral tones. Avoid anything overly casual, distracting, or too bold. Clean shoes, minimal accessories, and neat grooming all help create a polished look.

Virtual interviews require the same level of professionalism. Find a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background. Dress professionally from head to toe, even if the camera only captures part of you. Check your camera, audio, and internet connection ahead of time to avoid technical issues.

Even subtle details, like maintaining eye contact, nodding while listening, or using clear body language, can build connection and confidence through the screen.

Final Interview Tips for New SLP Grads

As you prepare for your CFY interviews, remember that employers aren’t expecting perfection. They’re looking for clinicians who are open to learning, enthusiastic about the field, and ready to contribute to a team.

Use this time to demonstrate what makes you a good fit for the position. Show that you understand the setting and the needs of the population. Speak to your strengths, and don’t be afraid to show a bit of personality. After all, speech-language pathology is about connection, empathy, and communication.

These SLP job interview tips are designed to help you approach the process with confidence. With the right preparation, a strong sense of professionalism, and a clear understanding of your own goals, you will be well on your way. For any new SLP grad, learning how to speak about your skills and potential is one of the most important tips for getting hired as a new SLP.

 

Navigating the Application Process

As a new SLP grad, sending out job applications can feel like a full-time job in itself. Each position may come with different requirements, expectations, and timelines. Understanding how to approach each opportunity with purpose and professionalism can help you stand out and move through the process with clarity and confidence. This section offers practical new SLP career advice on tailoring your application, maintaining communication, and knowing when and how to negotiate.

How to Tailor Your Application to Different Job Settings

No two jobs are the same, and your application should reflect that. Whether you’re applying to a public school, outpatient clinic, or skilled nursing facility, take time to review the job description carefully. Then, adjust your resume and cover letter to highlight the experiences and skills that are most relevant to that setting.

For school-based positions, focus on your experience with children, collaboration with educators, and understanding of IEP processes. For medical or adult-focused settings, emphasize any exposure to dysphagia, cognitive-communication disorders, or interdisciplinary teams during your practicum.

Customizing your materials does not mean rewriting everything from scratch. Often, it involves rearranging bullet points, tweaking phrasing, or shifting your emphasis. These small changes show that you have done your homework and understand the needs of the organization.

Importance of Follow-Ups and Thank-You Emails

After submitting an application or completing an interview, it is important to follow up. A simple thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and reinforce your interest in the role. Aim to send it within 24 hours of your interview. Keep the message polite, professional, and specific to your conversation.

You might thank the interviewer for sharing insights about the caseload, the team structure, or the supervision approach. A brief, personalized note helps you stay top of mind and demonstrates strong communication skills, which are essential in any SLP setting.

If you haven’t heard back after a week or two, a polite follow-up email is appropriate. Express continued interest and ask if there is an updated timeline for decisions. Employers understand that new SLP grads are eager to plan their next steps, and reaching out professionally shows initiative.

Knowing When to Negotiate and What to Ask

Many new SLP grads are hesitant to negotiate job offers. While it’s important to be respectful of budget and setting constraints, you should also advocate for yourself when appropriate. Before entering any conversation about an offer, take time to review the details carefully.

Compensation, supervision structure, caseload size, and professional development opportunities are all factors that can shape your experience. If something in the offer feels unclear or unbalanced, it is reasonable to ask questions. For example, you might ask how much time is allocated for documentation or whether there are opportunities for continuing education support during the CFY.

It’s important to approach negotiations with a tone of curiosity rather than demand. Often, asking thoughtful questions opens the door to clarifications or small adjustments that can make a meaningful difference in your first SLP job.

Final Thoughts on the Application Process

As part of your first SLP job guide, remember that this process takes time and patience. You may not get every job you apply for, and that is okay. Each application is a chance to learn more about what you value in a position and how you want to grow.

By tailoring your materials, following up with intention, and asking informed questions, you can approach the process with professionalism and confidence. For any new SLP grad, this is an important step in shaping not just where you start, but how you build a meaningful and sustainable career.

 

Bonus Tips and Encouragement

The job search process can be exciting, but it can also bring moments of doubt and disappointment. As a new SLP grad, it’s important to stay grounded in the reality that finding the right position often takes time. Along the way, you’ll likely experience a mix of interviews, rejections, waiting periods, and tough decisions. Through it all, you’re building not only a career but also resilience and self-awareness that will serve you well in the field.

Dealing with Rejection and Staying Motivated

Rejection is never easy. Whether you receive a formal message or simply never hear back, it can be discouraging. Still, it’s a normal part of the process. Even the most qualified applicants face rejection, especially early in their careers. Try not to take it personally. Often, decisions are based on timing, internal factors, or the specific needs of the organization, many of which are outside your control.

When you receive a rejection, take a moment to reflect. Ask yourself what you learned from the experience and what you might do differently next time. Then keep going. Staying motivated during the job search requires perspective. Focus on what you can control: your preparation, your mindset, and your continued effort. Remind yourself that your clinical fellowship is not just a job. It’s the first chapter of a long and meaningful career.

How to Network as a New Grad SLP

Networking may sound intimidating, especially for a new SLP grad, but it’s simply about building genuine professional relationships. Start by connecting with your graduate program’s faculty, clinical supervisors, or classmates. These individuals can be valuable sources of information, recommendations, or referrals.

In addition, consider attending local or virtual conferences hosted by your state’s speech-language-hearing association. These events often include career fairs, resume workshops, and opportunities to meet potential employers.

Social media can also play a role. Platforms like LinkedIn offer a space to follow clinics, school districts, or SLP organizations, and to connect with professionals in your desired setting. When reaching out, introduce yourself clearly and respectfully. A short message explaining that you’re a new SLP grad seeking insight or advice is often enough to start a conversation.

Staying Organized During the Job Search

With multiple applications, follow-ups, and deadlines, it’s easy to lose track of where you’ve applied or what materials you’ve sent. Staying organized is key to reducing stress and keeping your efforts focused.

Create a simple system to track each position. This can be a spreadsheet, a digital notebook, or even a printed checklist. Include columns for the organization name, date applied, contact person, interview dates, follow-up notes, and status. Reviewing this list weekly will help you stay on top of your progress and respond to opportunities in a timely manner.

It can also be helpful to schedule time each week specifically for job search tasks. This structure gives you control over the process and prevents it from becoming overwhelming.

Finding Support in Online Communities

Finally, don’t underestimate the value of peer support. Connecting with other new SLP grads can offer encouragement, shared resources, and practical advice. There are several online communities and support groups where recent graduates discuss job openings, interview tips, CFY experiences, and professional questions.

Groups on Facebook, Reddit, and LinkedIn often host active discussions for speech-language pathologists at every stage of their career. Some examples include “SLP CFY/New Grads Support Group” or “Speech Pathologists at Work.” Engaging in these spaces reminds you that you’re not alone. Others are navigating the same questions, and many are willing to share what has helped them.

As you move forward in your job search, continue reaching out, staying organized, and giving yourself credit for each step. You’ve already come so far. The path ahead is full of possibility, and with patience and persistence, you will find a position that supports your growth and aligns with your goals.

Conclusion

The journey to your first job as a new SLP grad is rarely simple. It can be filled with uncertainty, waiting, and the occasional setback. But it is also filled with opportunity. Each application, interview, and reflection brings you one step closer to the right position – one that supports your growth and sets the foundation for a meaningful career.

As you navigate this process, remember the key takeaways. Explore a range of settings to see what aligns with your goals. Tailor each application thoughtfully and stay organized throughout your SLP job search. Prepare for interviews with confidence, even if your experience is limited, and follow up with professionalism. Most importantly, stay connected with peers, mentors, and communities who can offer guidance and encouragement along the way.

If this guide was helpful, consider sharing it with other new grads who are beginning their search. You’re also welcome to subscribe for more resources, tips, and tools to support your next steps. Your career is just beginning, and there’s so much ahead.