For context, I am not one of your average caffeine fueled premed students usually saturating this internship. I applied for this internship out of interest in learning what public health policies and field work involved – which I now believe this internship is applicable to any field of work. During my eight weeks here, I feel that I’ve sufficiently been exposed to the multiple facets of public health. The health department has different divisions including: septics, education, clinic, home safety, food/water permitting, water lab testing. All of the sections involved some level of working with people and I will tell ya, this ain’t for the weak of heart. Some of these clients will smell any trace of uncertainty or fear – and they will let you know. Whether you’re taking clients up at the front desk or answering calls, you never know if the person you’re talking to is an angel or more trouble than a 2004 Chrysler Sebring. In other words, you learn to conduct patient professionalism and problem solving under pressure.
Outside of my main line of work, I had opportunities to explore all different fields of work. I got to learn what the heck actually happens when you flush a toilet (spoiler: your poop takes a bacterial spa retreat), the logistics behind management, installation, and even the environmental effects of poor maintenance. I had to create infographic designs to remind people the sun is hot and to not be stupid during fireworks. Other assignments I got to work on were getting access to the back rooms of fast food restaurants on food inspections, learning to racially profile mosquitoes, and participating in community events, such as National Night Out and Safe Kids Day. One of the most memorable experiences during my eight weeks here was assisting in a home visit with a nonprofit organization called Mobile Integrated Health. I got to meet one of their elderly patients and observe his living conditions, which really opened my eyes to how creative public health organizations can be to address diverse problems of transportation, various patient conditions and other unique situations. Moreover, the people I was introduced to working in public health all showed qualities of compassion and resilience, sharing the same goals for helping the community.
During my time at Montgomery County Health Department, apart from the field knowledge and technical skills I’ve acquired, I found the qualities of the people to be the most valuable feature from this internship. I was inspired by the hearts of workers in public health, and learned so much from their stories, advice, and care for the community. Overall, I enjoyed my time here and want to thank all the employees of Montgomery County Health Department, the Global Health Initiative, and my fellow intern, Elijah Wetzel for this awesome experience.
