Finding the right pathINTRODUCTIONI chose to research my future. I know I would like to major in Special Education somewhere, but I'm not sure where. I will do research to become a special education teacher and speech pathologist. Both are up my alley, but I'm not sure which one is best for me. I am elderly; therefore, this research is critical to the next step in my life. I currently know something about becoming a teacher. I took a course, Future Educators of Arizona, attended a few conferences, and shadowed a teacher. I know that teachers find incredible joy in seeing the difference they make when students gain new insights, become more interested in a subject, and learn about themselves. Becoming a speech pathologist will require more years of school and more lessons in the science field. I'm excited to learn more about each of these possible careers. I know for sure that the right career for me is in this field: becoming a teacher or speech therapist. In my research paper, I plan to cover the following topics: education needed, average salary, and noble environment. Even though both careers are connected to each other, they will likely vary drastically between these categories. I have a strong passion for helping others and know that I will enjoy the special education career path. I am determined to find the right path for me and this research paper will take me down that path! BACKGROUND Special education is in place to provide additional services, supports, programs, specialized placements, or environments to ensure that all students' educational needs are met for. Special education is provided to eligible students at no cost to parents. There are many studs... middle of paper... and physically strenuous. Most speech pathologists work full time. The jobs seem endless for speech pathologists. They can work in public and private schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, short- and long-term nursing care facilities, and community clinics. More experienced speech-language pathologists may work at colleges and universities, private practices, state and local health departments, state and federal government agencies, and research laboratories. (Careers in Speech) With such a wide range of environments, working conditions also vary. Facilities in most school systems and clinics are comfortable and adequately equipped. Likewise, most research facilities, universities and private practices are sufficiently equipped. Due to the growing demand for SLP services, working hours can be demanding and overtime is a likely option.