Arely Garza
Hidalgo
Summary
Graduate student in Communication Sciences and Disorders, attending the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Passionate about advancing clinical skills and knowledge in the field of speech-language pathology. Actively working toward certification and working as a speech-language pathologist.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Speech-Language Pathologist - Assistant
First Steps Pediatric Rehab and Home Health
Pharr, Tx
03.2026 - Current
- Assist the supervising Speech-Language Pathologist in implementing individualized treatment plans for pediatric clients
- Provide direct therapy services to support speech, language, and communication goals
- Prepare therapy materials and activities tailored to each patient’s needs
- Document patient progress and maintain accurate treatment records
Retail Associate
Ross Dress for Less
McAllen, TX
07.2024 - 01.2026
- Provided customer service in a fast-paced retail environment while completing graduate coursework
- Communicated effectively with diverse customers and team members
- Managed transactions with accuracy and attention to detail
- Demonstrated reliability, organization, and time management in a part-time role during graduate studies
Substitute Teacher
Valley View ISD
Pharr, Tx
10.2023 - 05.2024
- Help guide students through their assignments
- Keep students focused
- Help students with any questions on the material
- Worked with both Spanish and English classes
Education
Master's - Communication Sciences and Disorders
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, Tx05-2026
Bachelor's - Communication Sciences and Disorders
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, Tx05-2024
Associate of Science - Interdisciplinary Studies
South Texas College
McAllen, Tx05-2021
Skills
- Administration and scoring of standardized speech-language assessments PLS-5, GFTA-3, OWLS-II, KBIT-2
- Adult cognitive-communication and dysphagia screening support BIMS, SLUMS, bedside swallow screenings, and observation of swallowing function under clinical supervision
- Individual and group speech therapy implementation
- Articulation and phonological disorder treatment
- Expressive and receptive language therapy
- Low-tech AAC implementation and support including communication boards, visual supports, and choice-making systems
- Administration and scoring of standardized speech-language assessments (PLS-5, GFTA-3, OWLS-II, KBIT-2)
- Adult cognitive-communication and dysphagia screening support (BIMS, SLUMS, bedside swallow screenings, and observation of swallowing function under clinical supervision)
Clinical Practice Skills
- Individual and group speech therapy implementation
- Articulation and phonological disorder treatment
- Expressive and receptive language therapy
- Low-tech AAC implementation and support including communication boards, visual supports, and choice-making systems
- Use of compensatory strategies to support communication and swallowing safety in adult populations
- Data collection and progress monitoring to support treatment planning, goal development, and clinical decision-making
CLINICAL PRACTICUM EXPERIENCE
Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District – Student Clinician
Edinburg, TX | January 2026 – Present
- Conducted diagnostic evaluations for speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders
- Provided therapy for pediatric clients targeting receptive and expressive language, speech sound disorders, and fluency under supervision of an ASHA-certified SLP
- Completed clinical documentation including data collection and progress monitoring
Windsor Las Palmas Nursing and Rehabilitation Center – Student Clinician
McAllen, TX | September 2025 – December 2025
- Provided speech-language therapy for adults with dysphagia, aphasia, cognitive-communication disorders, and voice disorders
- Performed bedside swallow screenings and supported treatment planning under ASHA-certified SLP supervision
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams including PT, OT, nursing, and dietary staff
- Implemented functional communication strategies to support daily living skills
UTRGV Speech and Hearing Center – Student Clinician
Edinburg, TX | September 2024 – July 2025
- Provided speech-language therapy to pediatric clients under ASHA-certified SLP supervision
- Completed clinical documentation including SOAP notes and end-of-term reports
- Implemented evidence-based interventions and individualized treatment plans
Certification
- Substitute Teacher Certification - December 15, 2022
LANGUAGES
English
Spanish
Beginner ASL
Timeline
Speech-Language Pathologist - Assistant
First Steps Pediatric Rehab and Home Health
03.2026 - Current
Retail Associate
Ross Dress for Less
07.2024 - 01.2026
Substitute Teacher
Valley View ISD
10.2023 - 05.2024
Bachelor's - Communication Sciences and Disorders
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Associate of Science - Interdisciplinary Studies
South Texas College
Master's - Communication Sciences and Disorders
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley