November
Before starting my internship, I had the opportunity to shadow professionals in the physical therapy department. This experience sparked my interest and motivated me to pursue an internship in the same field. Throughout the internship, I have gained valuable insights into the daily operations and practices within physical therapy. Engaging with a diverse group of patients and hospital staff has significantly enhanced my communication and social skills. This experience has also helped me better understand whether a career in physical therapy is the right path for me. Overall, I have thoroughly enjoyed this internship and am now seriously considering pursuing a career in physical therapy
Interacting with patients and observing Kim and Jacob as they work with them has been one of the most engaging aspects of my internship. Watching how they assess each patient’s needs, develop personalized treatment plans, and guide individuals through their therapy sessions has been both inspiring and educational. Their ability to build trust and communicate effectively with patients has shown me the importance of empathy and professionalism in this field.
During this internship, I have had the opportunity to observe and learn about a wide variety of injuries, which has greatly expanded my knowledge and understanding of physical therapy. Each case has taught me something new, from treatment techniques to the importance of personalized care. Additionally, I have developed several practical skills that I can carry forward, both in this field and in other areas of my life. While physical therapy has been incredibly rewarding to explore, I have also been able to experience a little on the education side through my other internship in the activities department at the Red Oak High School and through the Buddy Program with Inman Elementary. I have found that I am also drawn to the field of education. I enjoy working with students and find great fulfillment in helping others learn and grow. At this point, education and Exercise Science are the top two career paths I would seriously consider, as they both align with my interests and passion.
December
Over the past month, I have learned the importance of adaptability and a willingness to embrace new learning opportunities when entering a new work environment. Adjusting to the dynamics of a workplace requires flexibility and an open mindset, both of which have been key to my growth during this experience. One of the standout aspects of working at the hospital is its exceptional work environment. The supportive and collaborative atmosphere created by the staff has made the transition seamless and enjoyable. I would go as far as to say that there have not been any significant challenges because of how welcoming and well-structured the environment is. This positive experience has reinforced my excitement about pursuing a career in healthcare.
I have significantly improved my communication skills through daily interactions with patients. Engaging with individuals from diverse backgrounds and adapting to their unique needs has helped me develop both confidence and clarity in my conversations. I now feel much more at ease when communicating, as speaking with others has become more natural and enjoyable. This growth has not only enhanced my ability to connect with patients but also reinforced the importance of effective communication in building trust and fostering positive relationships in a professional setting.
I feel incredibly comfortable in my internship/work environment because everyone at MCMH is so welcoming and supportive. No matter how many questions I ask, whether it is one or one-hundred, my coworkers are always patient and eager to help. This has made the learning process both enjoyable and stress-free. Interacting with my coworkers daily has not only strengthened my professional relationships but also boosted my confidence in my abilities to contribute and thrive within a hospital setting. Their guidance and collaboration have made this experience truly rewarding and have reaffirmed my excitement about pursuing a career in this field.