Volunteer Spotlight: Michelle Novak, AuD

My background that prepared me for this position includes holding various leadership positions during my time at the University of South Dakota—fostering my passion for academia. I actively sought opportunities to mentor and instruct younger students during my doctor of audiology program, instilling in me a commitment to nurturing the next generation of professionals.

Practical experiences, including my externship at the Portland VA Health Care Center and NCRAR, provided hands-on clinical expertise. Additionally, my involvement in service roles, such as committee memberships and policy development, honed my leadership and administrative skills. This background uniquely positions me to oversee the audiology clinic and guide students to contribute meaningfully to both academic and clinical realms in audiology. 

Why do you volunteer with the Academy? 

Getting involved in volunteering with the Academy, especially on the Resume Review Committee, comes from my valuable experience using this service as a student applying for externships. The real-world help I got from the review process got me thinking about giving back and helping others on their paths to getting externships or jobs. Plus, being part of the committee keeps me sharp at helping undergraduate students interested in audiology with their graduate school applications. Volunteering with the Academy is a way for me to give back to the profession that has given me so much. 

What is one thing that you can say volunteering has done for you and your personal success as an audiologist? 

Volunteering with the Academy, offering feedback on resumes and cover letters, has significantly fueled my success as an audiology professor. This role has not only sharpened my feedback skills but also deepened my understanding of the varied experiences and aspirations within our profession. Providing constructive input has not just refined resumes but has also fostered connections, emphasizing the importance of effective communication in audiology. In just a few volunteer hours each month, this experience has uniquely contributed to both my personal and professional growth in the field. 

Would you rather spend a weekend in a tropical paradise or a snow haven? 

I would rather spend a weekend in a tropical paradise for sure. I live in one of the coldest and snowiest cities in the continental United States, so most of my weekends in the winter are already a snow haven.

What three items would you bring with you on a deserted island? 

From a practical standpoint, my essentials would include matches, water, and a hammock. As for a whimsical addition, a music player would be my fourth choice, ensuring entertainment to pass the time on the deserted island. 

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