Whether you’re gearing up for the Praxis exam, navigating the final stretch of grad school, or are somewhere in between, confidence can feel like a moving target. Some days you’re sure of your path. Other days, imposter syndrome whispers in your ear. 

Let’s talk about how to quiet that voice—and build the kind of confidence that lasts. 

1. Start with Your “Why” 

Confidence doesn’t come from having all the answers. It comes from knowing why you’re here in the first place. You didn’t choose this field on a whim. You chose it because you believe in the power of communication. Because you’ve seen what happens when someone can’t express themselves—and how transformative it is when they finally can. 

You’re here because you want to help: 

• A child say their first word. 
• A stroke survivor find their voice again. 
• A teenager with autism feel understood. 

That purpose is your foundation. When doubt creeps in, come back to it. 

2. Prepare with Intention, Not Perfection 

Confidence grows when preparation meets clarity. If you’re preparing for the Praxis Speech-Language Pathology (5331) exam, you don’t need to know everything—you just need to know what matters most. 

That’s where the Praxis Test Prep course comes in. Created by ETS, the makers of the exam, it’s designed to help you study efficiently and effectively, with: 

• Practice questions that reflect the real test 
• Feedback to help you learn and improve 
• A structure that mirrors the actual exam format 

Explore the course and see what’s included. 

It’s not about cramming—it’s about preparing with purpose. 

3. Talk to People Who’ve Been There 

Confidence doesn’t grow in isolation. Reach out to recent grads, CFY supervisors, or professors. Ask them what helped them feel ready. You’ll likely hear that they had doubts too—and that those doubts didn’t define their success. 

You’re not the only one who’s ever questioned themselves. But you are the one who gets to decide what you do next. 

4. Practice Self-Compassion 

You’re entering a profession that requires patience, empathy, and resilience. Extend those same qualities to yourself. 

• A tough study session doesn’t mean you’re not smart. 
• A moment of uncertainty doesn’t mean you’re not ready. 
• A mistake in clinic doesn’t mean you’re not capable. 

Confidence isn’t about never struggling. It’s about trusting that you can navigate the struggle and come out stronger. 

5. Visualize the SLP You’re Becoming 

Picture yourself in your future role. You’re in a therapy room, helping a client make progress. You’re collaborating with a team. You’re making a difference. 

That version of you isn’t a fantasy—it’s a future you’re actively building. Every study session, every clinical hour, every moment of doubt you push through is shaping you into the clinician you’re meant to be. 

Final Thought: You’re More Ready Than You Think 

You don’t need to be fearless to move forward. You just need to keep showing up. So take a breath. Trust your training. And remember: you’re not just preparing for a test—you’re preparing for a career that will change lives. And you’re already on your way.