Renee M. Linenfelser

Education:

M.A. (research) Speech Pathology, 2003

Work Experience:

I have been employed by St. John’s Hospital since 2003. Currently, I am a Speech-Language Pathologist for the Cleft Lip/Palate and Craniofacial Deformities Team at St. John’s Mercy Medical Center. I am also a diagnostician for numerous pediatric specialty services at St. John’s Mercy Medical Center and Child Development Center. Areas of competency include pediatric feeding/swallowing, voice disorders, and vocal cord dysfunction.

Why did you choose SLU for your graduate degree?

I chose SLU for my graduate degree based on the variety of clinical externships they had available to them. I knew that I would get a well-rounded clinical experience by staying in St. Louis at Saint Louis University. SLU also had opportunities for funding through Federal Grant programs that encouraged work and research done in the area of Early Intervention. Since I completed my undergraduate degree at SLU, I felt that I had a connection to the faculty and staff at SLU that would facilitate a smooth transition for me, to a graduate program.

What factors contributed to your experience at SLU?

SLU has access to numerous clinical sites throughout Missouri and Illinois to place students and provide the most clinical experience before graduation. Because of this variety, I was able to find an area in my profession that I wanted to focus on. The faculty were always willing to help me when I had concerns and questions about classes, coursework, externships, clinical work and most importantly my future. The faculty encouraged me to pursue my interest in research and were eager to support me in writing a thesis. The faculty always encouraged my skills and interest with enthusiasm.

How does your SLU education help you on your career path?

A SLU education is rooted in Jesuit beliefs. This was apparent in all courses that I took during my graduate studies at SLU. This approach to my line of work prepared me for the setting I am in today. A SLU education not only provided me with state-of-the-art experience and knowledge, but the compassion to deliver care to those who need it most. Through my coursework, I was taught to never look at a patient as a “diagnosis,” instead, a person who had weaknesses and supports, as all of us do. Once you look hard enough and find what supports a person, you can best approach their needs.

Why would you recommend a student attend SLU?

I would recommend a student to SLU if they are looking for a local, well-rounded experience in the St. Louis area. With a variety of externships available to them as well as the encouragement to focus on areas that truly interest you, every student can find a home.

Research & Publications:

Current research projects include speech development and velopharyngeal function in children with cleft palate, and speech and language skills in the child with Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome.