Launching her career with confidence: ATSU’s SLP program helps alumna succeed from day one
Posted: January 12, 2026
In her first year as a speech-language pathologist, Mackenzie Gulka, SLP, ’25, is already helping patients regain communication skills and return to daily activities that bring meaning to their lives. She credits the hands-on education and mentorship she received in A.T. Still University’s Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) program for preparing her to start her career with confidence.
After earning her degree from ATSU-Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) in May 2025, she stepped directly into a clinical fellowship at Sun West Choice Healthcare and Rehabilitation, a skilled nursing facility in Sun City West, Arizona. In addition to this full-time role, she also provides pediatric home health care in the evenings.
“I chose ATSU’s program because of the opportunity to gain experience in all settings and complete multiple off campus clinical rotations,” she said. “I valued ATSU’s commitment to evidence-based practices and serving culturally diverse populations. I wanted to become the most well-rounded clinician I could to make the best impact in the lives of those I serve.”
The Speech-Language Pathology program prepares professionals to deliver culturally responsive care for individuals with communication and swallowing disorders. Rooted in whole person healthcare, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and advancing the scientific foundations of the field. Students complete a variety of clinical rotations during both their first and second years.
“I ended up taking a job at a facility where I completed a clinical rotation as a student so I felt very prepared when starting work,” she said.
Additionally, Gulka credits the program’s instrumentation lab with strengthening her confidence in making clinical recommendations and interpreting results for developing plans of care.
“Whether advancing a patient to a regular diet or helping them recover their communication skills following a stroke or traumatic brain injury, these moments are especially meaningful to me,” she said.
Gulka’s first year in practice has allowed her to build on the foundation she developed as a student, growing in confidence as she supports patients with a wide range of communication and swallowing needs. Each new case has affirmed her decision to pursue a career centered on serving the underserved.
“I am proud and grateful to be an alum of ATSU’s SLP program and the network of professionals who strive to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others,” she said.
