From New Grad to 11 Contracts In—Claudia Jones on Building a Life Through Travel Therapy

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 changedAMN's new grad mentorship program and clinical support teamThe recruiter relationship and why it can make or break your experienceClaudia's Oregon contract: handling three settings solo and thrivingStrategies for staying connected with family and friends while on assignmentMeeting lifelong friends on the road, including one via InstagramWorking with Jill Pantle on AMN's University and Alumni Outreach ProgramWhy travel therapy is a low-risk way to explore settings, locations, and your own strengthsChapters:00:00—Introduction and meet Claudia Jones01:30—Why new grads hesitate and how mentorship has changed the conversation03:40—The recruiter relationship: finding your person at AMN06:00—Claudia's journey: from Pennsylvania to 11 contracts nationwide10:45—The Oregon contract: three settings, one OT, one unforgettable experience13:20—Staying connected: family visits, trips home, and a best friend from Instagram20:20—Working with Jill Panto and the AMN University and Alumni Program25:35—Dispelling the myths around travel therapy for new grads31:30—Final advice: "What's the worst that can happen? Anybody can do anything for three months."Meet Claudia JonesMeet 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.Follow Claudia on TikTok WIN A TRIP TO ASHA 2026 ON US! Enter to win!The Top-5 Highest Paying States for School &amp; Travel SLPs! Browse School Therapy Jobs &amp; CareersLearn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure PodcastLevel up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program. Share the opportunity and refer a friend today! Episode Sponsor:We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare. Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the <a href="https://www.amnhealthcare.com/amnpassport/?utm_source=Spotify&a