Holden Allen – Florida State University News

“Helping students gain meaningful research experience and begin building their professional careers is one way I hope to make a lasting contribution to the FSU community.”

Communication Sciences & Disorders doctoral student Holden Allen is advancing research in speech-language pathology while working to make the academic environment more accessible for students with disabilities.  

Allen is the first person in his immediate family to pursue a doctoral degree. At Florida State University, he has contributed to peer-reviewed publications, presented research at state and national conferences and completed the university’s Preparing Future Faculty program. 

Drawing on his own experiences as a student with a disability, Allen has launched a student-led initiative to connect and support students with visible and invisible disabilities within his program. He also mentors undergraduate and graduate students and has built connections with scholars in special education.

Why did you choose Florida State University?

I chose FSU because of its reputation for research excellence and the opportunity to learn from accomplished faculty members. I was particularly interested in working with faculty whose research areas aligned with my own and who offered opportunities for me to contribute to grant-related research projects. 

FSU also provides opportunities beyond traditional coursework through seminars and other academic programs. These experiences have helped me develop the skills I will need as a researcher and future faculty member. 

What academic achievements have you accomplished at FSU?

One of my most significant academic accomplishments at FSU has been contributing to two peer-reviewed academic journal articles and being featured in a national magazine for a leading organization in my field. I consider sharing research and information that can advance my field to be one of the greatest achievements a scholar can attain. 

Another important accomplishment was completing FSU’s Preparing Future Faculty program, which prepares graduate students to become supportive and effective faculty members. I currently mentor undergraduate and graduate students and hope to pursue a faculty position in the future. The program helped me strengthen my skills as an educator, mentor and researcher. 

I have also had opportunities to present my research at state and national conferences. Having my work reach professionals beyond FSU has been especially meaningful because it allows me to contribute to the field while representing the research being conducted by FSU faculty and students. 

How have you impacted your community?

I mentor undergraduate and graduate students within my program. Having previously worked as an English and program-specific tutor, I find fulfillment in guiding and supporting other students. I view mentorship as an opportunity to help students develop their own skills and eventually share their knowledge with others. 

As a person with a disability who uses a manual wheelchair, I have launched a student-led initiative at FSU to connect and support students with disabilities within my program. Increasing the representation and success of people with disabilities in speech-language pathology is especially important to me because our profession predominantly serves people with disabilities. Shared experiences can provide valuable perspectives when working with clients. 

My research and mentorship have also created opportunities for other students to become more involved in the field. For example, an undergraduate student I mentored earned co-authorship on a peer-reviewed journal article through our collaboration. Helping students gain meaningful research experience and begin building their professional careers is one way I hope to make a lasting contribution to the FSU community.