We believe that being a traveling health professional should be filled with inspiration, memories and unbelievable pictures! Meet Julia. Julia has been a Speech Language Pathologist for 3 years and employed with MAS for well over a year. She is here to share her experiences and advice with you.
What made you decide to travel?
I’ve always wanted to do travel therapy. I knew it was perfect for me but taking that leap was hard after I graduated and started working. In 2017, I had to leave my permanent position in Dallas to move back to North Carolina for family reasons. I interviewed for full-time positions in North Carolina to figure out which setting was right for me. It took me a few weeks and a few interviews to realize a few things:
- I just wasn’t ready to commit to one location.
- I really enjoy change.
- I wanted to take breaks from work and spend more than just a few days away from my job to avoid feeling “burnt out.”
- I wanted to pay off my student loans quicker.
So I turned down the perm jobs and started my first travel assignment. I haven’t looked back since.
What do you like about working with your recruiter?
I can probably talk to my recruiter, Jonathan, about anything. I don’t, but I do feel like we have that relationship. I also love that he responds very quickly to my texts and keeps me updated on everything regarding the status with potential new positions. I’ve communicated with several other companies. Fast responses and a good relationship are both qualities I really value in a recruiter.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy traveling, art classes, photography, DIY, trying new recipes, and exercise.
Where has been your favorite place to travel?
For an assignment destination, the North Carolina coast is absolutely beautiful. I was born in NC, so It has been nice to be somewhat close to my friends and family. For leisure, I’d say Costa Rica has been my favorite place to travel. It is also absolutely beautiful. I love nature and the opportunity to disconnect, which I think both locations allow this.
Where would you like to travel?
More domestic travel! A road trip with friends down the west coast and to visit a few of the national parks would be so fun.
What is the best advice for new SLP travelers?
Be flexible! The staff at your facility may not handle things the way you prefer or are used to. Embrace change- but also don’t be afraid to present your ideas.
Anything else you would like to add?
Many of my therapy friends ask me about travel therapy and some questions I can’t answer. Everyone’s situation is different and I had to find what works for me. What did I do with my furniture? I sold it. How did I live in such a small town for 13 weeks? I work until 6 or 7, go to the gym, then go to bed. How do I deal with moving every 13 weeks? Everything I need fits in my car. This works for me. However, I know travel therapists that make it work with pets or keeping their furniture for every new assignment and that’s awesome.
I was nervous to take my first assignment but now I’m happier than I’ve ever been. My advice: Stop worrying about the “what if’s.” You will always have a job. Let go of your mattress and sell your couch. I’ve found happiness in experiences and focusing on improving myself rather than other people and accumulating things.
Interested in traveling and have additional questions? Send Julia a message, she is happy to help!
