Throughout my life, I’ve been afforded numerous wonderful opportunities for growth, both personally and professionally. From August 2024 through August 2025, I participated in the AnnieRuth Foundation’s summer internship program. I worked hard to learn as much as I could from the training and development sessions that took place duirng the first 10 months of the program. The training sessions came in handy very quickly; they really prepared me for the workplace (e.g., the internship segment of the program). A specific point I remember using from the training sessions was about work attire. Within a specific session, workplace attire was covered. I used the notes taken from that session and applied them to the places I went to work. Not only was I able to blend in with the other working people and adhere to the dress code, I also felt more confident in myself; it allowed me to feel more like I belonged in these prestigious institutions. This is just one of many tips I took with me into this internship from the 10 month training period.
My hard work (during the training and development segment) paid off and I was placed at the Florida Department of Health and Baptist Hospital. Throughout my time at both places, I was able to gather so much valuable information about the medical and public health field. At Baptist, I was able to witness how adult patients interact with they’re doctors, and some of the issues doctors must face in dealing with the patients and their specific needs. At the Department of Health, I was able to help brainstorm ideas for reaching out to underserved communities on a specific issue and was a part of the process in getting these needed resources out into the community. In both areas, I was able to view the different but still kind and joyous work environments. The Baptist office had many kind people, working patiently and gently one-on-one with patients, building connections to allow them to feel safe and cared for. At the Department of Health, the workers in each department interacted with each other with excitement and zeal, ready to do the best they can for their community. I discovered my love for outreach, as well as gained knowledge on chart reading and medicine.
With the help of AnnieRuth Foundation, I was able to narrow down my career aspiration. The experience solidified my desire to become an epidemiologist. I am very grateful to have had the experience.