How difficult is to become a Speech Pathologist?

Should I become a teacher or speech pathologist?

• Teaching Pros: I really love learning about history, and I would like to teach that. History is a fascinating subject. I also plan to specialize in Spanish. Hours are good (although there is a lot of take home work) and it seems to be a family friendly career (holidays and weekends off). It is rewarding to know that teaching students skills which they will need help on. Cons: I tend to be an introverted person, at least around peers, and do not find "small talk" particularly interesting. I also have anxiety issues and I don't like to speak in public. I feel like most teachers have an extroverted personality, will I fit in? Also, I get stressed out often and I am emotionally sensitive. I would have a hard time dealing with bad students. I am also worried about finding a job after graduation. Many teachers are getting laid off and its hard for them to find a job. Speech Pathology Pros: Speech pathology is teaching kids how to speak. I would be working in small groups and one-on-one settings. This is easier because I would be focusing on children individually. I would choose my schedule. Good salary. It is in high demand so it would be easy to get hired. Cons I must go to graduate school to get a job doing work in speech pathology. A major in speech pathology may be harder than one in education (history). I am not particularly good in math or science. However, I find science to be interesting and I like to do research. I have patience but I have never dealt with students with disabilities. I don't have good communication skills. Which career would suit me best? Why? How will I know?

• Answer:

  speech is preferred