The overarching goal of the Academic SkilL BuildInG and Networking (ALIGN) program is to support the success and sense of belonging of graduate students in Communication Sciences and Disorders who may benefit from enhanced academic and professional mentorship – particularly those from backgrounds historically underrepresented in speech-language pathology or audiology, including first-generation college students, students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and their allies. ALIGN aims to promote inclusive excellence in graduate training and support students in developing into skilled professionals in the field.

Incoming students who would benefit from such support are invited to apply to participate in ALIGN, with most ALIGN activities conducted in their first year. As the programming is intensive and designed to build community and continuity, students who are accepted into the program are expected to commit to the full year of programming, which includes both structured activities and mentoring relationships.

There are four pillars of the ALIGN program designed to enhance student success:

Skill building workshops

• Evidence-based academic learning strategies
• Time management
• Health & Wellness
• Professional skills and development

Study groups

• Facilitated by 2nd year students
• Weekly content determined by participants’ areas of need
• Facilitator guides student learning while students actively participate

Peer mentoring

• Peer mentors assigned to ALIGN participants
• Individual and group peer mentoring opportunities
• Mentoring involves encouragement, perspective sharing, advice, and networking

Professional mentoring

• Practicing professionals in the field assigned to ALIGN participants to serve as mentors
• Mentors often bring shared experiences or identities that foster meaningful guidance and support
• Provides career-related guidance, support, information, and networking