My internship with the St. Joseph County Department of Health was an incredibly fantastic experience. Over the course of my time there, I was able to shadow nearly every department, gaining a broad understanding of how public health functions in practice. From community outreach and environmental health to clinical services, I saw how each area contributes to the health of the community. A highlight was working independently on my own project, which pushed me to take initiative and think critically. I also had the opportunity to shadow Wabash doctors, which connected my academic studies to the practical, patient-centered side of medicine.
Looking back, I can see how my CliftonStrengths played a key role in my experience. Consistency helped me approach each task with fairness and reliability. Futuristic kept me motivated as I connected what I was learning to my long-term goals in healthcare. Context allowed me to place my daily observations into a broader understanding of why systems exist as they do. My Restorative strength emerged in my project, where I enjoyed problem-solving and finding ways to improve processes. Finally, Empathy enabled me to connect with both staff and patients, reminding me that public health and medicine are ultimately about serving people.
I am thankful to my supervisor and the staff at the St. Joseph County Department of Health for welcoming me into their work and giving me such valuable experiences. I would also like to thank my Wabash professors and the donors who made this opportunity possible. Their support has helped me grow as a student, a professional, and a future healthcare leader.
