As young children, we all dream about what our future selves will be like, the life we might lead, and especially the career paths we might take. For Mac Eschinger ’24, M’25, a childhood experience led him to pursue a degree in Lebanon Valley College’s Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) Program.

Eschinger attended speech therapy himself as a child, as he was unable to speak. From this process—and as he grew older—he realized how deeply his passion and desire for helping others ran, and he began to consider a career path that would allow him to help others like himself.

“Sometime in high school, I spoke with my former speech therapist, and I realized just how interesting and impactful speech-language pathology is,” Eschinger said.

When it came time for college applications, Eschinger looked into LVC after his current track coach encouraged him to compete for the Flying Dutchmen track & field team. The opportunity to run competitively was a significant factor in his college decision.

“My first visit to LVC was during a snowstorm. Despite this, I thoroughly enjoyed the campus and my experience. After meeting with admissions, coaches, and the SLP faculty, I realized that LVC was the college that would care for my success and future the most,” Eschinger said.

Now in his junior year, Eschinger is finding his path using the skills he has learned while being a part of LVC’s program, which enhances its students’ knowledge and education through hands-on experience. As a part of his curriculum, Eschinger worked with social groups where he met with a group of five-year-old children and helped build their social and communication skills by reading stories, encouraging interaction between peers, and practicing social skills such as sharing.

“Through experiences like these, we have a better chance to apply what we have learned and connect the dots academically,” Eschinger said.

Yet, his connection with Dr. Michelle Scesa, chair and assistant professor of communication sciences & disorders and speech-language pathology, has most influenced Eschinger’s plans for a career. Scesa and Eschinger are conducting collaborative research on concussions as a part of his studies.

“She has helped me improve and grow in anything and everything I do,” said Eschinger. “She encouraged me to think about the work environment I would be best suited in and helped me realize my ability. She trusts and supports my ideas and thinking, which goes a long way for me.”

When his time at LVC comes to a close, Eschinger said his goal is to make a positive mark in his field. “I entered this field to help others like I was helped as a child, and I intend to do so.”

— Angelica Fraine ’23, Marketing & Communications Intern