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Congratulations to our Dal Health Class of 2025! Get to know more of our featured grads.

In this Convocation Q&A, learn about Brianna Hepditch, MSc Audiology, from St. John’s, Newfoundland.

What inspired you to choose your field of study?

I’ve always known that I wanted to work in healthcare, but it wasn’t until I began volunteering with long-term care homes and the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association of NL that I discovered my passion for audiology. Witnessing the profound quality-of-life improvements that can come with maintaining effective communication deeply inspired me.

Having a loved one with hearing loss also gave me a firsthand perspective on the barriers it creates in communication and everyday life, as well as the life-changing impact that hearing care can have. This experience inspired me to help make a meaningful difference in the lives of other families.

What was a moment at Dal that you’ll never forget?

I will never forget the feeling of presenting my final research project (supervised by Dr. Zahra Jafari) with my research group. After months of hard work in the lab, sharing our findings with faculty and peers was incredibly rewarding and special. I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity Dal provided to contribute meaningful research to the audiology field.

Who supported you along the way and how?

I am extremely fortunate to have had such an amazing support system around me. This program was both rewarding and academically rigorous. The support I received from my partner, family, and friends—whether it was a quick “good luck” before an exam or taking the ferry across provinces to help me settle into the program—meant so much and never went unnoticed.

The small audiology cohort size at Dal meant I was able to build irreplaceable bonds with my peers (and now co-workers!). We all came from diverse educational backgrounds and learned from each other’s strengths throughout the program. I’m confident that no matter how far apart we may be, we’ll continue to support one another in our careers.

Was there a course/research topic/placement that really impacted you?

At Dal, I had the privilege of learning from—and being supported by—some of the most knowledgeable and compassionate professors and supervisors in the field. More specifically, my externship placements with Hear@Dal and the Dalhousie Hearing Aid Assistance Program, two inhouse SCSD clinics, were especially impactful. These programs help to break down financial, social, and systemic barriers to hearing care- and being a part of this team was a privilege. Each day felt more fulfilling than the last.

This placement not only enhanced my clinical skills but also
deepened my ability to approach communication health with empathy and understanding. My externship supervisor, Dr. Sarah Wilson, was instrumental in creating an encouraging learning environment and led by example with her compassionate approach to patient-centred care. Her mentorship has left a lasting impression on how I will approach every clinical interaction.

What does graduating mean to you?

Graduating with this degree means I can proudly reflect on the dedication and hard work that went into earning it. It also means I can finally turn my passion for patient-centred hearing healthcare into a rewarding career, which is an incredibly exciting feeling.

What is next for you?

Since finishing the program, I’ve moved back to St. John’s, NL, and am currently working at a busy clinic that serves an adult population, focusing primarily on diagnostic services and amplification.

Looking ahead, I am eager to become more involved in advocacy and community outreach. I’m excited to share what I’ve learned through my degree to raise awareness on topics such as the importance of early intervention, promoting safe listening habits, and making hearing care more accessible.