It's important for the many AuD graduates entering the profession to have realistic expectations about the field. Schools do not train for the politics of audiology, and new professionals do not truly understand the challenges they will face in the "real world."

When I finished school last year, I was excited because I viewed my new job as the beginning of a new life. I was optimistic and enthusiastic. But what do you do when your first job isn't what you expected? Your professors can't help you, neither will your grades. It's an eye-opener to realize that "top of the class" doesn't mean top of the field, at least not to start.

The training for a first-year audiologist begins in the first six months after graduation. Unfortunately, I spent this time at a profit-centered organization with poor management. But I was new to the field and figured that's how it was. Now I know that if something doesn't feel right, don't wait-do something. Everyone makes their own choices. If your "dream job" isn't what you thought it would be, do not stay.

When I started my first job, I had a positive outlook and tons of ideas. I was going to change the world. Things were OK at first. My boss encouraged me to send my ideas to her. However, I received no response.

I was not allowed to see patients because "I didn't have any experience." I let this pass, even though my job was commission-based and I depended on commission to make ends meet. In a profit-centered practice not seeing patients means not getting a full paycheck. I did not receive commission until I left the job.

If you find yourself in a job where management is set in its ways and unable to see the benefit of new ideas or change, don't stay. Otherwise, the experience will turn you against a great field.

At least I was lucky to have colleagues who believed in me. If I did not have them for support, I am sure things would have turned out differently.

There are a number of things that new graduates should know. For example, I was unaware of the money struggles. A lot of audiologists work two jobs to make ends meet when first starting out. Figure out your loans fast. This will save you stress in the future. If you don't like a contract, do not sign it.

If you meet someone who does not believe in you, ignore that person. You have to believe in yourself. Keep the people who believe in you close.

There are good audiologists and bad audiologists. While most people in the field are full of knowledge and experience, there also is ignorance and greed. Do not be surprised as I was to find the latter. Know your values, and do not change them for anyone.

Stay in the loop, and keep up with the news. This field is growing at an exponential rate. If you aren't on top of it, you are second best. Never settle for second best.

You will meet amazing patients who will make you smile, just as you will meet cranky patients who will make you want to cry.

I am pleased to say that I left my toxic first job and am now at a job where I am making a difference. I smile at work because I believe in what I do. Find a job like this. It was the best thing that ever happened to me.

We are the future of audiology. We have all worked hard to get where we are. We should welcome the wisdom and advice of our mentors, while keeping our values and beliefs at the core of what we do. Audiology is a great field, and that is how we will take it forward.

Katie Harrington, AuD, completed her fourth-year residency at the University of Rhode Island is now on staff at Sound Advice Hearing Centers in Plymouth, NH. She can be contacted at katie.soundadvice@gmail.com.