What if the career path you were told to avoid turned out to be the best decision you ever made?
In this episode of SLP Full Disclosure, host Michelle sits down with Claudia Jones, a travel occupational therapist with AMN Healthcare and 11 contracts under her belt. Claudia shares how she went from a new grad who was warned away from travel therapy to a passionate advocate helping the next generation of clinicians take that first leap. From building unexpected friendships to growing as a clinician in a small Oregon hospital—the only OT on staff across three settings—her story is equal parts inspiring and practical.
Key Topics Discussed:
- Overcoming the stigma around new grad travel contracts and what has changed
- AMN's new grad mentorship program and clinical support team
- The recruiter relationship and why it can make or break your experience
- Claudia's Oregon contract: handling three settings solo and thriving
- Strategies for staying connected with family and friends while on assignment
- Meeting lifelong friends on the road, including one via Instagram
- Working with Jill Pantle on AMN's University and Alumni Outreach Program
- Why travel therapy is a low-risk way to explore settings, locations, and your own strengths
Chapters:
- 00:00—Introduction and meet Claudia Jones
- 01:30—Why new grads hesitate and how mentorship has changed the conversation
- 03:40—The recruiter relationship: finding your person at AMN
- 06:00—Claudia's journey: from Pennsylvania to 11 contracts nationwide
- 10:45—The Oregon contract: three settings, one OT, one unforgettable experience
- 13:20—Staying connected: family visits, trips home, and a best friend from Instagram
- 20:20—Working with Jill Panto and the AMN University and Alumni Program
- 25:35—Dispelling the myths around travel therapy for new grads
- 31:30—Final advice: "What's the worst that can happen? Anybody can do anything for three months."
Meet Claudia Jones
Meet Claudia Jones, a travel occupational therapist, who has completed 11 contracts across South Carolina, Oregon, Indiana, and Florida. Claudia started her travel career straight out of school—despite being told not to—and has since become a mentor and advocate for new grads considering the same path. Passionate about building connection, embracing flexibility, and growing clinically through every assignment, Claudia works with AMN's University and Alumni Program to bring honest, firsthand guidance to students before they ever sign their first contract.
Ready to take that first step toward your travel therapy career? Subscribe to SLP Full Disclosure and share this episode with a new grad who needs to hear it.
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Episode Sponsor:
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