[caption id="attachment_13874" align="alignright" width="233"] "When you learn to balance work and play, life can be amazing!! Be yourself, challenge yourself and enjoy life!"[/caption] Molly, a speech language pathologist, started traveling while she was still in school working as a PRN during the summer months while on break. Once she graduated she spent time in her home state of Ohio working and volunteering at a local fire department as a firefighter and EMT. The travel bug hit again and she decided to take her work on the road. “I enjoy the change in locations, settings and co-workers because it pushes me to challenge myself personally and professionally,” says Molly. “I am constantly learning new information, exploring new treatment methods, and expanding my skills and levels of experience across a variety of settings and caseloads, while exploring new areas of the country and meeting incredible individuals.” Her first assignment was in Delaware where she enjoyed providing specialized services and co-treating with OT’s and PT’s, in addition to having time in the indoor swimming pool. “My most recent placement was in Astoria, Oregon and this was nothing short of amazing,” she says. “I loved not only this location near the coast, but also the staff, clients and teachers, who treated me so well and allowed me to grow professionally as I worked in the less familiar setting of early intervention.” [caption id="attachment_13875" align="alignright" width="252"] “You don't have to turn your life upside down to take on new opportunities! Just take a new perspective and enjoy every moment!”[/caption] Traveling has given Molly the opportunity to take time off to work at a summer camp in Washington to provide individuals with special needs the opportunity to go to camp. In addition to that volunteer work she continues to look for opportunities to volunteer as a firefighter and EMT. When on assignments she enjoys hiking and exploring. She also meets people by getting involved in community events, attending services at local churches and by meeting up with coworkers away from work. She even finds ways to make it in the local paper. Once for commenting on April Fools’ Day pranks. “I have met so many incredible individuals and made the local paper twice in the first three weeks of moving to Astoria!” For those thinking about traveling she recommends being open to new ideas and methods of treatment and to engage in continuing education courses specific to the population you will be working with. “Be flexible and enjoy the adventures of meeting new people and places!” When asked why she chooses to work with CompHealth, Molly replied: “When I chose to make a change in lifestyle and move to new locations across the country, I began seeking job opportunities with various travel therapy companies. The communication and quick responses from CompHealth were outstanding and the professional yet personal conversations put CompHealth at the top of my list. I stated my desired location to work, and by the end of the week I had completed an interview and accepted a position in an incredible workplace.” Looking for a travel experience for yourself? Check out our open SLP jobs.