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Valerie Ibarra

1x

Finalist

Bio

I am a Mexican-American student and future Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) student committed to expanding equitable access to hearing healthcare. As a San Diego native majoring in Speech-Language and Hearing Sciences, I have maintained a 3.91 GPA while serving as a research assistant in the Laboratory for the Brain Dynamics of Language. Our research focuses on bilingualism and cognitive-linguistic processing. My passion for audiology is deeply personal. I have neurofibromatosis type 2 and lost hearing in one ear following tumor removal surgery. Experiencing hearing loss firsthand transformed my perspective from patient to future provider. It gave me insight into the emotional, academic, and social impact of hearing differences and solidified my commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care. My long-term goal is to work in a hospital setting where I can integrate clinical care, research, and advocacy to improve outcomes for individuals with hearing differences. I strive to use my resilience, cultural perspective, and lived experience to become not just a provider but a source of understanding and empowerment for my patients.

Education

San Diego State University

Bachelor's degree program
2024 - 2026
  • Majors:
    • Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
  • GPA:
    3.9

MiraCosta College

Associate's degree program
2022 - 2024
  • Majors:
    • Social Sciences, Other
    • Psychology, General
  • GPA:
    3.9

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      audiology

    • Dream career goals:

    • Guest Service Advocate

      Target
      2021 – 20265 years

    Research

    • Communication Disorders Sciences and Services

      San Diego State University — Research Assisstant
      2025 – Present

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Rady Childrens Hospital — Volunteer
      2025 – 2025