Interns at AAIHB contribute to meaningful, real-world public health work. Projects are designed to support ongoing initiatives while building practical skills in communication, research, and Tribal public health practice.
Intern projects vary based on program needs and mentor guidance, but commonly include:
These projects focus on translating complex data into clear, visually engaging content. Interns work with mentors to identify key messages, interpret data, and design graphics that are accessible and appropriate for a broad audience. Infographics may:
Highlight trends in Tribal public health data
Share prevention or awareness messsaging
Support campaigns or initiatives led by AAIHB or partner programs
Fact sheets are designed for use by Tribal programs and community stakeholders. Interns synthesize information from data sources, reports, or program activities into clear, structured documents. Fact sheets may:
Summarize regional or Tribal-specific data
Provide overviews of public health issues or program areas
Support grant activities, reporting, or community engagement
Presentation work may include assisting with existing materials or creating new presentations based on their projects. Interns learn how to communicate information in a structured, audience-aware format. Activities may include:
Supporting development of presentations for project meetings
Creating slides that summarize data, project updates, or key findings
Practicing how to tailor content for different audiences and settings
All interns complete a final presentation at the end of their internship. This is an opportunity to:
Reflect on their work and contributions
Share what they learned about Tribal public health
Highlight a specific project, process, or experience
Practice communicating their work to a professional audience
Presentations are typically shared with AASTEC and AAIHB staff and may include slides or other visual materials.
Interns are not expected to work independently from day one. Instead, they learn by observing, contributing, and gradually taking on responsibilities within active projects. This approach allows interns to:
Build confidence in professional settings
Develop communication and collaboration skills
Understand how Tribal public health work happens in practice
Interns often describe their experience as an opportunity to apply their academic training, build meaningful relationships, and deepen their commitment to serving American Indian and Alaska Native communities.
Several of our interns continue to work with us over multiple semesters, as there are always new and different opportunities to grow and strengthen their public health skills.