1 — What does your day-to-day look like?

I spend most of my time applying for grants and talking to community members about feedback and requests. The biggest project I have been working on is organizing a community bus that will allow members of the community to explore the other communities around them. 
 

2 — What are you enjoying most about your internship?

Working at the health centre has allowed me to work with so many interesting and knowledgeable people. I love being in a health/science environment and this internship has solidified where I want to go with my career. I have also enjoyed learning about grant applications as this skill will be beneficial in my studies next year. I plan on doing an independent study during my fourth year and this practice will hopefully allow me to excel in the application process for my future studies. 
 
3 — What knowledge and skills are you developing?

I definitely have a better understanding of the healthcare system. I want to pursue a career in medicine and this internship directly applies to what I want to do. The healthcare system is a complex organization, especially in rural communities like Port Elgin. I have learned to appreciate and understand obstacles and challenges associated with the system at a greater level. 
    

4 — How has this internship impacted your university experience?

Since I am majoring in biology and want to pursue health sciences, this internship directly aligns with my degree. The real-world experience I am receiving from this position will help me prepare for my courses next year as well as life after MtA. I have a new appreciation for critical thinking and that there are different ways of getting to the same objective. I often fall into the notion of things being one dimensional and I think these skills will allow me to understand my peers better in the future. 

5 — What has this experience shown you about potential career paths?

As a student looking for experience in the health sector and wanting to pursue medicine, this internship has been a great starting point. People often find it hard to get their foot in the door in terms of health sciences because schools are looking for experience prior to the application process. I feel so lucky to have had this opportunity to do what I love and gain knowledge and skills at the same time.
 
Learn more about student internship opportunities at Mount Allison.

This internship is funded by the Loewen Internships fund.