This week, we’re bringing you Part 2 of this insightful and instructive interview.
Student-to-ProfessionalÂ
Discipline/Credentials:Â Occupa
Workplace:Â Trios Health, Level 2 NICU
Location:Â Kennewick, Washington 
1. How has being part of the NANT community—through conferences, mentorship, and peer connections—shaped your sense of professional identity as a neonatal therapist?Â
Being a NANT Member has helped me feel connected to something larger than my individual workplace. Neonatal therapy is highly specialized, and having a network of professionals who share similar goals and values has been incredibly grounding.
Originally attending the NANT Conference as a student was truly transformative. It was the first time I felt fully immersed in a community dedicated to neonatal therapy, and it helped me envision a clear professional pathway into the NICU. Hearing experienced clinicians and researchers share their knowledge made neonatal practice feel both inspiring and attainable.
Previously serving as a Student Ambassador at NANT further strengthened my confidence. It allowed me to connect directly with leaders in the field, build relationships with mentors and peers, and feel like an active contributor rather than just a learner.
Through ongoing conferences, mentorship, and peer relationships, I’ve developed a stronger professional identity rooted in lifelong learning, collaboration, and advocacy for infants and families. NANT has helped me see neonatal therapy not just as a job, but as a specialty that requires intentional growth, humility, and community support.
2. What advice would you offer to students or new graduates who are interested in working in the NICU but may feel unsure about the path forward?Â
My biggest advice is to be intentional and proactive. The NICU is a specialized setting, and opportunities often come from seeking mentorship, asking questions, and consistently showing interest in learning.
Attend conferences, connect with neonatal therapists, join professional organizations like NANT, and don’t be afraid to introduce yourself or express your goals. Even small steps such as shadowing, independent learning, or attending educational sessions, can build momentum.
I also think it’s important to acknowledge that there are differing perspectives about students learning in the NICU. Many clinicians believe students should not be placed in this environment, often out of a deep commitment to protecting medically fragile and complex infants. These concerns are understandable. At the same time, while the NICU is specialized, it is not unique in that regard. Practice areas such as the adult ICU, SCI or TBI units, and hand therapy are also highly specialized, yet students are still able to learn safely through structured mentorship, thoughtful supervision, and gradual increases in responsibility. With the right support, clear expectations, and boundaries, students can gain meaningful learning experiences while maintaining the highest standards of safety and care.
My own journey showed me that intentional mentorship and well-supported learning opportunities can help students develop clinical reasoning, humility, and respect for the complexity of the NICU environment.
Thank you, Sophia, for sharing your journey with the NANT Community!