What are the main takeaways?

One of the main takeaways in obtaining an internship is staying proactive. For example, while talking to other classmates, I discovered concerns regarding their site. Either their potential preceptor was taking a while to respond or has professionally ghosted, so make sure to reach out and keep your options up in case something falls through. In my personal experience, I planned to do my internship (HLTH491) in the summer at first, but then I realized I would not have the total aid I received during the fall and spring semesters because this is a summer course. Though I already applied to a couple of internships before this class started and submitted them during the winter semester, I was waiting for their responses. In this class, I reached out to a couple on the database in order to cast a wide net. Initially, I searched for internships in the summer before I realized the cost of tuition and other factors. After receiving summer internship offers, I reached out to the other sites to see if I could do a fall internship instead of the summer. One of the sites could adjust to the change, and another said they were unsure but to reach out in later May. During this time, I was reaching out to my scholarships and other financial aid organizations to see if any aid was available for me to use for the summer. While connecting others, I kept Tracy Kenndey, who teaches HLTH491 and is the undergraduate internship program manager, in the loop. Thankfully I received a bit more aid, so I can take HLTH491 this summer. Ultimately, I decided to intern at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. My internship with Columbia University will count as class credit. I will also intern this fall, with an organization that serves the Baltimore City area. Throughout this process, I had to advocate for myself and stay proactive which is a skill that is crucial especially as we move on toward our future careers.

Another major takeaway is flexibility. Sometimes organizations might have said yes to hosting an intern, but unfortunately, something may occur on their end where they may no longer be able to make that offer.It might not be the site, but something on your end might change, like in my situation. Also, keep in mind do not be afraid to reach out if you need additional assistance. With the realization of my financial aid, I had to make some adjustments, but thankfully everything has worked out, as I advocated for myself and requested additional assistance. Lastly, stay on track with the other assignments in this course and your other classes. In HLTH490, you will also be writing a grant while seeking an internship site.

We are taught many skills in the last three classes in the major ( HLTH490, HLTH420, and HLTH391) that will be crucial when doing our future work as public health professionals. Some skills are budget writing, using UDLS, and many more. It has been a pleasure writing these blogs for prospective students. Although this semester can be hectic, you all will be fine, and everything will work out in your favor. Wishing you all the best of luck during this process; hopefully, we can connect!

Photo by Sue Carroll on Unsplash