Tim Howden, Speech Pathology

Q & A

What field are you in and how did you end up in it?

I am in communication disorders. My reasoning for being in this field comes from a combined love of language and experiences I have had working with young people. I arrived at this decision over a good five years of somewhat directionless studies. I just continued to do what I enjoyed doing until something slapped me in the face. I guess this field managed to do it!

Do you think it is easier for a man to succeed in your field, or woman, or no difference?

I think it works both ways. If the gender make up of this field was equal I actually think women would find it easier to be successful. Working with children in particular, women are often considered more trustworthy. However, the truth is that this is a female-dominated work arena and as such, being a male is quite a rare commodity. So I am going to be relatively unique and therefore privileged to better opportunities.

What are some advantages or disadvantages to being a man in your field?

My chances of getting a job in my field are really high straight from college as I have a unique selling point. The field is desperate for any speech language pathologists regardless of gender, but as a male, I am even more desired by employees. I feel also that as a male I will be asked to do certain jobs because of my gender. Males are often believed to hold more authority and presence in some situations, so behavioral issues are often handed to me. I do not want people to think my success is only down to my gender. But I cannot say it isn’t nice to think I can walk into a job!”

Who encouraged you to pursue this career? Men, women, peers, parents?

Many people influence me to go this way but I feel nobody actually encouraged me -- it was very much my own choice. Those that did influence me were male teachers and professors that I have studied under through school and undergrad. My own research led me to where I am. Very random, but so is life.

Do you feel more or less pressure to succeed as a male in your field?

Neither. I do not see any difference myself between genders so I feel no pressure. Others may see it a different way but I staunchly do not. In addition, this field is desperate for people. I believe we will all be successful. If this weren’t the case, I might feel pressure -- yes I think so. I am the outsider in this field, so I think I would feel more vulnerable and need to succeed to avoid this.

Are there any famous men in your field that you look up to and why?

I know most people in this field by last names only and so they are not gender-specific in my mind. Dr. Bashir (male) is a professor I respect hugely who is famous in this field but truly, it makes no difference in my mind. Fame in this field is earned by the work conducted and nothing else -- so I believe that gender is irrelevant.

Would you encourage your son or daughter to enter this field?

Yes, both, if they enjoyed it.

Is it more acceptable to be working in this field as a male than it was 20 years ago?

This field is relatively young so that question is not really applicable. However I don't believe it is a case of acceptability in this field, I think more women simply choose this vocation. With that in mind I guess I am odd!