Cassandra Gutierrez

Cassandra Gutierrez has always recognized that communication is how we thrive as human beings. For this reason, Gutierrez became interested in the field of speech language pathology. “Speech language pathology is one of the most impactful careers. It builds a bridge of communication for those who have trouble acquiring language/communication skills and for those who have tragically lost their ability to functionally communicate. It gives hope to individuals and families. It restores and gives people the power to use their voice, uniting both families and communities,” she says.

As a child, Cassandra watched as her mother worked with individuals with communication disorders and often spent time with adults and children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Down’s Syndrome. By the time she was a teenager, she began working as a community habilitation and respite worker to an adult with ASD—and discovered a passion for helping others. After meeting a family friend who was a bilingual speech language pathologist, Cassandra was convinced this was her future career. “I saw the impact she had on the lives of children and their families, and the endless opportunities the world of speech has to offer,” she says.

Cassandra chose the graduate speech program at the School of Health Sciences for its welcoming environment, strong academics, and passionate faculty dedicated to ensuring students excel. “The faculty is highly accessible and always willing to help. They truly inspire students with their experience as practicing clinicians and business owners, and they prepare students for success and the challenges we may encounter in the field,” she says of her Touro experience.

Though Cassandra hasn’t decided on a specialty yet, she knows that she wants to be a clinician who serves pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations. “Speech and language are important throughout the human life span. Children need to build these communication skills to be able to engage in society. Many adults who have lost their communication abilities due to a tragic accident or age need much guidance and support to live a fruitful life,” she explains. “Ultimately, my career goal is to open my very own private clinic, where I could provide bilingual speech and language services to low-income families in need. I want to make a difference in the lives of many.”