From MUSC SLP Students to Clinical Educators Shaping the Next Generation

Clinical educators play a critical role in training the next generation of speech-language pathologists, bridging classroom knowledge with real-world experience. For MUSC Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) alumni Carly Knotts and Kerri McCraw, returning to the program as clinical educators is a full-circle journey—from students who benefited from exceptional faculty mentorship to professionals who now guide current students through hands-on clinical experiences. Their dedication ensures that MUSC’s high standards for patient care and clinical excellence continue to thrive.

Carly Knotts, M.S., CCC-SLP

Current Role:
Speech-Language Pathologist at The Village at Summerville, part of the Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina, providing services across Independent Living, Assisted Living, Short-Term Rehab, and Skilled Nursing.

Why she gives back:
"During my time at MUSC, I had wonderful clinical supervisors who taught me so much and truly cared about my growth. They played an instrumental role in my development into a well-rounded speech pathologist. I have always hoped to give back in a way that reflects the guidance and support I received."

What she enjoys most:
“I enjoy introducing current SLP students to my field and the residents I serve every day. Working with our senior population is both fun and rewarding! Teaching students in a real-world setting like skilled nursing and senior living, which is anything but predictable, allows me to show them the many ways we can make a difference for this population. I also appreciate the collaborative nature of being a clinical supervisor. During my first time as a clinical instructor, I learned a great deal from my student, who came prepared with creative and engaging therapy ideas. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn alongside each other.”

What she values most about the MUSC SLP program:
“One of the things I valued most about my time at MUSC was the extensive hands-on experience I gained. The clinical rotations truly helped me grow into the best therapist I can be. I am also incredibly grateful for the professors who invested so much in us and provided an excellent education. I’m proud to be an alum of the MUSC SLP program!”

Kerri McCraw, M.S., CCC-SLP

Current Role:
Speech-Language Pathologist at MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital (3 days outpatient, 1 day inpatient)

Why she gives back:
"Giving back as a clinical supervisor is a way for me to express gratitude for the strong foundation the program gave me. I sincerely appreciated all the knowledge that my own clinical supervisors gave me in helping me to become a more confident clinician. Being able to support current students in the same way feels both meaningful and necessary. It’s rewarding to play a role in preparing the next generation of SLPs.”

What she enjoys most:
“I truly enjoy the energy, curiosity, and new perspectives that students bring. They ask thoughtful questions, challenge themselves, and are eager to grow and learn as much as they can. I also appreciate seeing their progress over time and knowing I had a hand in helping them grow their clinical skills and connect the classroom to the real world.”

What she values most about the MUSC SLP program:
“What I value most about my experience in the SLP program is the relationship that I created with the faculty. During my time in the program, it was evident that the faculty and professors cared about us not only as students and clinicians but also as people. I still keep in touch with the faculty from MUSC and now get to collaborate with them in my role as an SLP at MUSC. The education and clinical experiences that I received during my time in the SLP program provided me with a solid foundation where I felt confident entering the field as a clinician.”

SLP Clinical Education at MUSC