Internships and Mental Health

Abstract

During the semesters of the 2019-2020 school year, I received an opportunity that has changed my life. I served as an intern at the New England Aquarium in Boston. This internship guided me in ways I never anticipated. Since I was young, I struggled with the lack of confidence about what I wanted to study for the remainder of my education. In experiencing such a unique educational setting, I have found a passion for translating knowledge to others. Being rewarded with meaningful conversations and an opportunity to share my own passions with others has inspired me to continue to work closely with the aquarium community. As a weekly volunteer, I awaited the opportunity to apply for a paid staff position. Then everything changed. During the COVID pandemic I developed severe mental health issues that impeded my ability to move forward at the aquarium. I was diagnosed with depression, an anxiety disorder, and clinical severe OCD. My perception of my life as an aquarium worker slipped from my view and I lost who I was or who I wanted to become. My passion for connecting with others is what continued to push me. After the re-opening of the aquarium, I underwent training and weened myself back into an overwhelming setting. Today, I am glad to say I still volunteer and get to work with incredible people every week. In this presentation I will go into detail about my experiences and how mental health impacted my life as an intern and volunteer.

Hannah Wilder | Earth and Geographic Sciences | Faculty Sponsor Elizabeth Gordon