New SLP? Tips from a Grad Student Turned CF on Job Applications, Confidence, and What to Expect

Hallie chats with Anoli Mehta about her Clinical Fellowship journey.

In this real and refreshing episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie chats with Anoli Mehta—a brand-new grad turned CF and the face behind @itsnotjustspeech. Anoli shares what it was like coming into the field from a non-CSD background, how she found a CF that blends early intervention and private practice, and why she didn’t rush into work right after graduation. From job interviews to imposter syndrome to figuring out what questions to ask (and when to ask them), she’s keeping it honest about life after grad school. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure, or just trying to catch your breath, this convo is here to remind you—you don’t need to have it all figured out to take the next step.

Bullet Points to Discuss: 

• How Anoli landed a CF that mixes early intervention and private practice
• Why she applied everywhere and asked all the questions (even the awkward ones)
• What she looked for in a supervisor—and what made her say “nope” to certain jobs
• Taking the Praxis early and how that helped during interviews
• Why she gave herself time to just chill after graduation (and why you should too)

Here’s what we learned: 

• It’s totally fine to still feel unsure—you’re not supposed to have it all figured out
• Ask about support, mentorship, and pay—don’t be afraid to speak up
• The right job will feel right—trust your gut in interviews
• You don’t need to be in a rush—take a breath before jumping into your CF
• You made it through grad school for a reason—you’re ready, even if it doesn’t feel like it yet

Learn more about Anoli Mehta: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsnotjustspeech 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itsnotjustspeech 

Learn more about Hallie Sherman and SLP Elevate:  

📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/

🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signup

Subscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets