Program prestige, elite alumni and faculty a draw for ATSU Doctor of Audiology program student

Program prestige, elite alumni and faculty a draw for ATSU Doctor of Audiology program student

A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) Audiology program student Tiana Comessotti, '27, has a straightforward answer when asked why she chose this particular program to pursue her Doctor of Audiology (AuD) degree.

"The prestigious Audiology program has a wide network of alumni from the residential and online AuD program," Comessotti said.

That it does. Beyond that, Comessotti has found a program providing opportunities for growth, interprofessional collaboration, and more.

"I really enjoy all of the events and opportunities to participate within the Audiology program and with other programs on campus," she said. "I have been able to participate in the annual Spring Expo, Founder's Day, E.A.R. Day, and a custom hearing protection presentation for dental students.

"Professionally, I would like to work in a hospital setting, and help cancer patients who are at risk for hearing loss due to the ototoxic nature of chemotherapy treatments. ATSU is helping to prepare me for this career by giving me exposure to many clinical settings and providing a well-rounded curriculum to help me have a detailed knowledge of the audiology field."

In her free time, Comessotti volunteers at Phoenix Children's Hospital, helping cardiovascular ICU patients with limiting the social impacts of their hospitalization. She also volunteers as a coach for a youth girls volleyball team, and likes to read, craft, and spend time with family.

Comessotti, originally from Calgary, Alberta, Canada, has a bachelor's of science in biomedical science degree from the University of Waterloo. She's been a highly involved ATSU student, serving in the Student Academy of Audiology, with the Education and Recreation (E.A.R.) Day planning committee, Custom Earmold Hearing Protection Fundraiser Committee, and as a student ambassador.

"I became a student ambassador to share the amazing aspects of ATSU to prospective applicants," she said. "I enjoy serving in this role because it allows me to share my journey to audiology and it helps me network with aspiring audiologists!"