Nora Ineman a sophomore at Kent State University and a Choose Ohio First Scholar, pursuing a Bachelor's degree in speech-language
pathology is deeply personal. As an infant, Nora experienced a blood clot in her brain that affected her development, particularly her ability to swallow. During her recovery, a speech-language pathologist played an important role in helping her regain those abilities. Her experience inspired Nora to pursue the same career and one day provide that support to others.
“I'm so incredibly grateful for the support I received from her,” Nora said. “It inspired me to have a full-circle moment and become a speech pathologist. I hope that one day I can provide that same kind of intensive care and make a positive impact on someone else's life.”
The Choose Ohio First scholarship has helped Nora focus on her education and extracurricular involvement by reducing the cost of her degree. She has also valued the guidance and opportunities provided by the COF team as she prepares for a career combining science, communication and health.
Outside the classroom, Nora is gaining hands-on experience through her involvement in Kent State's SPARR (Swallowing Physiology & Rehabilitation Research) Lab with Dr. Barikroo. She is also a member of Kent State's chapter of NSSHLA (National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association).
Nora's experiences at Kent State have strengthened her passion for communication and its impact on people's everyday lives. Through her coursework and relationships with professors and classmates, Nora has become increasingly confident that speech-language pathology is the right career for her.
After completing her undergraduate degree, Nora plans to pursue Kent State's graduate program in speech-language pathology. Her long-term goal is to work with children in a school, hospital or private clinic, helping them develop the communication skills they need to thrive.
