Through the summer, I learned several new skills. I became CPR, first aid, and AED certified. I can communicate needs and wants by sign language. Most importantly, I gained the skill to understand, take care of, and be friends with adults with special needs. Most of the campers have special diets so I know what they can and cannot have. I get to know my campers like the back of my hand.  I never knew I was capable of caring for 3 to 5 special needs adults for 9 weeks. The most important lesson I learned is that we are all human. Whether we communicate with sign language, need a walker or wheelchair, or are mentally delayed, everyone is capable of anything, sometimes we just need a helping hand.

This internship has greatly impacted my career path. My original plan was to pursue a master’s degree in clinical psychology, but now I’m at a crossroads. I love helping this community. They bring me so much joy and I want to always be involved with this community. So, I’m stuck between getting my master’s in clinical psychology or something that would lead me to be involved with special needs adults and children. It is a crossroad that I do not have much time to figure it out, but no matter what path I decide, I hope I can still help others in any way I can.

My advice for future interns is that you get what you give. If you give 100% of yourself to your internship every day, you will get 100% back. Whether it is new skills you learn, a job in the future with the company, or even just connections in your field, it is worth it to intern, to learn, and to be active in your career field.