Internship in HDF
Internship in Human Development & Family Science
The internship requirement for Family Sciences majors allows students to apply classroom knowledge in an employment setting as a means of further developing and practicing knowledge and skills.
See Internship Opportunities (Updated 7/2021)
How to Plan Your Internship
| What to Do | When to Do It | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Decide on the type of internship you want to do by evaluating your interests; related academic courses in which you’ve excelled. | Begin this process a semester or two BEFORE you want to do the internship. (pre-reqs: FAM 251, FAM 360 and FAM 352) | FAM 499 Internship Instructor/Academic Coordinator (AC), Pam McFarland, 859-257-2617 or visit 315 Funkhouser Building. |
| Prepare & shape Resume and Cover Letter based off of interested internship. Make sure your resume and cover letter is free of grammatical errors and/or incorrect information. | Begin the process BEFORE you want to do the internship, preferably as you progress in college. | Schedule appointment with MGCAFE’s Director of Career Development; see Resume & Cover Letter examples. |
| Have your resume reviewed. Take printed copy or send electronically to MGCAFE Director of Career and Enrichment. | Schedule this BEFORE you want to do the internship; periodic updates as needed. (You will need a final version to submit for potential internships). | Schedule appointment with MGCAFE’s Director of Career Development. |
| Research internship opportunities. Contact internship site contact person to see if they have any internships available for the semester in question. | Begin this process no later than the semester BEFORE you want to do the internship. MANY other students from various colleges/universities are doing the same thing. Some sites are so popular they secure their interns two-three semesters in advance. | Review the current FAM 499 Internship Packet for the most comprehensive list; if you have a place in mind (and that site contact person is agreeable to serving as the internship supervisor), seek out FAM 499 Internship Instructor as soon as possible. |
| Discuss your internship intentions with FAM internship coordinator. | During advising or other appointment; in the semester or two BEFORE you want to do the internship. | FAM 499 Internship Instructor/AC. |
| Practice interview skills. | The semester or two BEFORE your internship. | Schedule appointment with MGCAFE’s Director of Career Development. |
| Apply for prospective internship(s). Follow any necessary application procedures. | The semester or two BEFORE your internship. | Contact Internship Supervisor for each site. |
| Make decision on which internship to accept. | Secure internship no later than the following dates depending on enrollment: FALL: AUG 1 SUMMER: MAY 1 SPRING: DEC 1 |
Contact the Internship Supervisor to confirm; notify FAM 499 Instructor/AC. |
| Finalize internship contract with site supervisor. Submit typed & signed contract to Internship Instructor. | Prior to the FIRST DAY OF FAM 499 class – first Wednesday of semester. | FAM 499 Internship Instructor/AC. |
| Override to register for FAM 499 given to student for enrollment. | Prior to the FIRST DAY OF CLASS – first Wednesday of semester. | FAM 499 Internship Instructor/AC. |
Internship Spotlights
Major: Family Sciences
Expected graduation date: May 2018
Internship location: Southern Elementary School (Lexington, KY)
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
I volunteered and was involved with the Dolphin Club, which is the after-school care program. I worked with the kids on their homework, coordinated games and fun activities. I also worked with at-risk children to improve their behavioral, social, and communication skills.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I am using knowledge from the classroom to communicate and listen better to the students – as well as empower the young students to become better individuals.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
During my internship, I learned listening and communication skills with coworkers (other faculty members) and clients (the students).
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Pick somewhere that could provide skills used in the workforce of your individual choice, somewhere that could easily carry over post-graduation. Overall, this class was very beneficial in strengthening my personal skills.
Major: Family Sciences
Expected graduation date: May 2018
Internship location: University of Kentucky Family Center (Lexington, KY)
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
For my typical day, I would clean and organize all the therapy rooms, audit files, other clerical duties, and watch previously recorded therapy sessions.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I applied a lot of my classroom knowledge into my internship. Since the Family Center is a part of Family Sciences, I was able to think back to previous classes and see how they go further into a career, especially when watching therapy sessions.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
One key thing that I have learned during my internship is how to be a self-starter. I have always found it difficult to do things without direction. But with doing my project, I was able to learn how to use my own mind and be creative.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
One piece of advice that I would give to other students who are preparing to complete an internship would be to not be afraid to ask questions and do not be scared to think of things on your own.
Major: Family Sciences
Expected graduation date: May 2018
Internship location: Woodford County Cooperative Extension
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
On a normal day, I start by checking emails. Each morning, I also take time to catch up on things from the previous day. Then, I usually do any task my supervising agent has for me. This could be assisting with materials for an upcoming program, leading or assisting in a workshop or project day, or creating promotional materials for a program. It varies day to day. Some days, I'm in the office all day working at my desk, while other days I am out in the community working. On days when my supervising agent does not have urgent tasks for me to complete, I will often assist the other agents and staff with their projects.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
Last semester, I took the FAM 360 class called Introduction to Family Intervention: Working with Families and Individuals. The curriculum we covered discussed how family science students are on track to become helping professionals. While I might not be working in a counseling profession, I am still able to apply many of the strategies we learned in my internship as I interact with those in the Woodford County community, including coping with stressful situations and active listening.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
I have learned to get outside my comfort zone. Whether I am making phone calls to 4-H Camp parents or going to a state livestock judging contest when I knew nothing about livestock judging, these experiences have given me unique learning opportunities. Each day I have been challenged with exploring and finding more about who I am and who I want to be.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
My advice would be to begin scheduling yourself now. It can be strange going from a college student's schedule of intermittent classes each day to a consistent 8-hour work day.
Major: Family Sciences
Expected graduation date: May 2017
Internship location: Kentucky Department of Education with the Family and Consumer Science State Supervisor in Frankfort, KY
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
My day usually starts by checking in with my supervisor, the State Supervisor, and she will give me a list of objectives to get done for the day. I have been given tasks such as organizing lessons on the state website, assisting with the preparation of and attending an advocacy day for Family and Consumer Sciences in Frankfort, or even spending three days in Louisville at the FCCLA State Meeting assisting my supervisor with various sessions! I have had the opportunity to participate in a lot of great experiences and have learned even more than I imagined about family and consumer sciences at the state level.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I have been using the communication skills that I learned in the classroom often during this internship. I have used my knowledge of working with individuals over the different stages of the human lifespan. I understand that meeting and speaking with retired FCS teachers is different than working with the middle school students at the state meeting, so when communicating with these separate audiences I am able to effectively present my message. I have enjoyed putting my family science coursework into action as I work in this capacity.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
The key thing I have learned is that there are things you might not feel confident doing, but those are the things you need to do! The more you step out of your comfort zone the more you grow. You might feel uncomfortable at first, but looking back you will be thankful you took the opportunity so you can continue to grow.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
My advice for others would be to network as much as possible during your internship because all of the professionals you are meeting could lead to a potential career opportunity. The more people you meet and make connections with, the bigger and stronger your network becomes.
Major: Family Sciences
Minor: Community and Leadership Development
Expected graduation date: May 2018
Internship location: Family, Career and Community Leaders of America National Headquarters in Reston, VA
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
Each morning I would begin with networking. This may seem like an unusual approach, yet I found that by starting my day by speaking with the staff around the office, I made more connections and started off the day in a positive way. After making my rounds through the office, I would check in with my direct supervisor, the Director of Communications. Quickly, the two of us would go over what the priorities were for that day, and I would update her on the progress and completion of any tasks. After this morning routine, I would know exactly what needed to be done that day. The tasks usually involved emailing state advisors and national officers, creating documents for the national officer elections, preparing scripts for the National Leadership Conference, and communicating with the officer candidates about the election process.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
Since it was my job to work with the National Executive Council and the National Officer Candidates, I found myself using a lot of the knowledge I learned in my minor, Community and Leadership Development. Intrapersonal communication, understanding the differences in each person’s leadership style, and time management were concepts I applied each and every day.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
During the 10 weeks I spent in this internship I learned more than I ever imagined. One specific thing that I walked away remembering is the importance of details. In my role, I learned how the small details that go into the National Executive Council’s scripts, the planning of the general sessions, and the lesson plans and workshop materials really do play an essential role in the overall success of the National Leadership Conference. I have always been a perfectionist, yet this summer I learned how to work in a faster paced environment while remaining focused on the little details.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
My advice would be to ask questions. My supervisor always emphasized that mistakes happen, yet it is essential to turn the mistake into a learning experience. For me this came through asking questions. Asking questions not only allows you to brainstorm solutions, it also facilitates growth and expresses to your employer that you are there to learn.
Expected graduation date: Spring 2018
Location of internship: Glencairn Marriage and Family Therapy Center
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
A typical day includes basic administration work, scoring PAI's, talking to clients as they come for their appointments, and working on whatever it is my site supervisor needs.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
When I talk to clients I use a lot of the things I learned in my previous classes to maintain a good relationship with the client. I also use a lot of the professional skills we learn in class.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
I have learned that most people who need help just need someone to listen. I've learned to listen and just be a person people can vent to. That is absolutely necessary when working in the helping industry.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Choose a place that means something to you or that you are interested in. I love the place that I am at and it helps because I don't feel like I'm just going to my internship.
Expected graduation date: Spring 2018
Location of internship: Community action council
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
My typical day as an intern is working at my desk to start out, going through files of our participants to make sure all of their papers, and info is up to date. then work with each kid calling or texting them about their situation is on coming to meetings on Tuesday and Thursdays and seeing where they will be to and if they are in need of a ride.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I am applying my classroom knowledge of the skills learned of communication skills, empathy, and coping skills, and teaching others coping skills.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
one thing i learned is that no matter how hard you try to help someone if they don't want the help, they wont want to change.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
reach out to as many people, places, as possible but know the background of each place, and learn about what they do.
Expected graduation date: Spring 2018
Location of internship: Child Development Center of the Bluegrass
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
As an intern I worked with preschool aged kids in a classroom. Most of the time I would be playing with the kids, helping with meals, and helping with activities.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I've used classroom knowledge in this internship when interacting with the children and the teachers. By taking classes on how to interact with people in a thoughtful way it has helped me to be patient with the kids and compassionate with everything I do with them.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
During my internship I've learned a lot about how much of a community the child development center of the bluegrass is. It is such a close knit community, everyone is friendly and a lot of the families who go there know all the teachers and everyone there. It feels as if everyone is family.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Do something that you are passionate about and be open to the possibility of working there after graduation. You may never expect to work at where you are interning but you could change your mind after being there and making relationships. Make sure to form good relationships with the people at your internship because you never know when you will need those connections and those relationships.
Expected graduation date: Spring 2018
Location of internship: Girl Scouts of Kentucky
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
My typical day at Girl Scouts involved me going to different schools for programs, office jobs, and lesson plans
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
currently I am applying professional styles in my internship as well as communication skills
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
one key think i have learned is how to make lesson plans and develop events for different programs
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
time management, know what it will take to get all your hours but also plan ahead so test or any study time you need you aren't having a time conflict
Expected graduation date: Spring 2018
Location of internship: Child Development Center of the Bluegrass
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
I arrive and begin the day just interacting with the children, having circle time and reading a book. We usually do a craft and I typically put all of it together. Then we have lunch and then either go to the "jungle room" or outside on the play ground. After this they go down for a nap and I will help clean and restock the classroom.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I have used what I learned in FAM 254 (Human Development) and seen the children grow each day and also plan activities for them based on their developmental progress.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
It takes a lot of patience to work with so many children.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
It can be very stressful at times, but make sure you are always paying attention to the children, so you can prevent accidents before they happen.
Expected graduation date: Spring 2018
Location of internship: NECCO Lexington
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
In the morning I will come in and meet with my supervisor to see what she may need done for the day. Depending on how long this takes, I will either spend the rest of the day completing tasks such as checking files, running errands, or any thing else that may need to be done. Once I complete these tasks I will then check with case managers to see if they have any intakes or home visits that I can join.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
In my internship I applied skills that I learned in the classroom concerning how to speak to clients and how to speak with coworkers.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
During my internship I learned that in a work environment it is essential to make yourself seen and make it known that you are there and willing to do any task thrown at you because if you sit back and wait for people to request things of you, you will not be seen as someone who is enthusiastic about your job and you won't gain any significant experience.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Do not be shy or afraid to put yourself in a position that allows you to gain experience rather than sitting back and waiting for someone to ask you to complete a task.
Expected graduation date: Spring 2018
Location of internship: YMCA
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
Supervise the children to ensure their safety, provide nutritious snacks, assist with homework, deliver a lesson plan and/or craft project, and implement physical activity such as playing in the gym or going outside.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I have learned from class that people react differently in certain situations, so in order to help I must understand each individuals' personality. This is especially true for young children, which I am working with.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
I have learned that it is very important to work as a team in order to be successful.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
To choose an internship site that shares similar values as they do, and to be passionate about what they do as well.
Expected graduation date: Spring 2018
Location of internship: All God’s Children
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
No day was ever the same at AGC. There was always so much hustle & bustle with new residents coming in & babies being born! Most days I got to attend treatment team meeting, counseling sessions, art therapy, or acted as a receptionist. If I wasn’t doing that, I was calling social workers or helping teach an independent living class for the moms who were about to transition into adulthood.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I learned so much about family systems, counseling, & working with people in the classroom. It helped me as I connected with this population of people. I could understand when the social workers discussed types of family functioning. It was so cool to apply to actually understand what was going on.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
I learned empathy. You truly can’t understand a person until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Always be on time & make yourself available. Be willing to do things that make you uncomfortable, you learn so much more that way!
Expected graduation date: Summer 2018
Location of internship: Senior Renewal at Saint Joseph Hospital in Berea, Ky
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
I participate in each group therapy session. I complete tasks such as answering phones, doing the charge reconciliation, chart audits, and any other task my supervisor needs assistance with.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
In the classroom, I learned how to talk with elderly people about sensitive subjects such as dying, loneliness, feelings of helplessness, etc. It has helped me tremendously because those are the topics that the clients are more prone to talk about.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
To be in this field, you need to truly care for people and you must choose your words carefully!
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Build a good relationship with your supervisor! They will be willing to spend more quality time Training you!
Expected graduation date: Spring 2018
Location of internship: Child Development of the Bluegrass, Lexington, KY, United States
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
Work in a preschool classroom and assist with activities and daily duties
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
my human development class has helped immensely in my internship
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
One key thing I have learned is to be assertive and confident in my role
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Really show assertiveness and put in 100%. In the end it could be great reference and its great networking
Expected graduation date: Spring 2018
Location of internship: The Refuge Clinic, Lexington, KY, United States
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
A typical day as an intern at The Refuge Clinic looks different every day. Clinics are held based on the availability of the volunteer medical providers. On clinic days an intern will be working at the front desk, checking patients in, answering phone calls, and scheduling follow-up appointments for patients. During non-clinic hours the Patient Advocate Intern will work on referrals to specialists offices for patients who require care that can not be provided at the clinic. Interns will also be responsible for communicating details of appointments that The Refuge Clinic has scheduled for the patients.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I have utilized knowledge gained from my Family Sciences courses in a variety of ways throughout my internship. Communicating with patients has required the use of interpersonal communication skills, evaluating family systems, and many of the skills learned in courses geared towards helping professions. I use active listening when communicating with patients daily. Due to the patient population that The Refuge Clinic serves the knowledge gained from personal and family finance, as well as family resources classes, has been vital in understanding how best to meet a patients' needs.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
My internship has impacted how I go about my daily interactions with others. Everyone has a story. People deserve to be valued and fully known for just being themselves.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Go into your internship with an open mind. Internships can be an amazing learning opportunity if you step out of your comfort zone, ask questions, and challenge yourself.
Expected graduation date: Spring 2018
Location of internship: University of Kentucky Human Resources
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
My internship was a rotation between many departments within HR, tasks varied depending on the rotation I was in. Sometimes I was doing research, some days I was creating surveys for benchmarking, entering data, etc.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
Many of my classes apply, but a specific example would be the classes that have taught me how to conduct my own research and gather data for my own personal use/business use.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
I have learned how it is practical and useful to support coworkers, even if they are in a different department than you. The resources you both offer can be helpful in many situations.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Choose and internship that supports something you are passionate for.
Expected graduation date: Spring 2018
Location of internship: Tate's Creek ES
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
At my internship, my tasks change daily. I am mainly helping with students in classrooms and students who need more help emotionally as well mentally. A lot of students at this school have behavioral issues and come from hard home lives. I am interning with the school counselor, so I am always helping her with anything I am capable of doing.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
From my classroom knowledge, I apply many aspects that I am able to use at my internship. For example: time management, listening skills, working with others, and organizational skills.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
To always keep an open mind and be willing to help in all situations.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
To always work to the best of your ability and to go above and beyond. Always listen to others and take all advice.
Expected graduation date: Spring 2018
Location of internship: Nightlight Christian Adoptions
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
Accompanying staff on home study visits and post-adoption visits with adoptive families. Visiting pregnancy help centers around Kentucky and providing educational materials and support resources for women who may be interested in placing their child for adoption. Attending and participating in meetings with birth mothers, during which we addressed any questions they had, discussed life choices, provided transportation to medical appointments, and helped them get access to any resources they may need (Food Stamps, WIC, career counseling, etc.)
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
My knowledge of family relationships/dynamics and child development has helped me understand why certain procedures are in place and to understand the challenges faced by families adopting children.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
I have learned how to handle sensitive situations with both professionalism and compassion.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Ask a lot of questions and don't hesitate to take initiative when given the opportunity.
Expected graduation date: Summer 2018
Location of internship: Signature Healthcare at Tanbark Rehabilitation and Wellness Center
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
While at Signature Healthcare at Tanbark Rehabilitation and Wellness Center I have completed a rotation between departments learning how the facility operates.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I have been applying my classroom knowledge with my active engagement with families. These families are working through what can be an extremely difficult time in their loved ones lives.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
With the combination of compassion and dedication, you can immensely improve the lives of individuals through a delicate time in their lives.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
My advice to students preparing for their internship is to not be afraid to ask questions. It is ok to not fully understand everything at first. If you express an eagerness to learn than others will be more willing to help you and you will get the most out of your internship experience.
Expected graduation date: Fall 2018
Location of internship: Breathitt County Extension Office, Jackson, KY 41339 USA
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
My typical day as an intern is teaching 8-12 year old youth basic cooking skills, good food handling practices, healthy lifestyles and eating habits in a Program called Junior Chef's Academy. I also observe and take part in the many of the duties the Family and Consumer Science agent does on a daily basis. I have helped lead and/or teach educational programs which focus on making healthy choices, nurturing families, promoting healthy homes and communities, consumer sciences programming areas that include food and nutrition, family resource management, human development and family relations. I have also learned to help facilitate, partner with groups/agencies to provide programming and to build coloration with those agencies to help solve the problems of the community. I have learned about the supervision aspect of the position which includes evaluations for the staff and assistants.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I am using and applying the classroom knowledge in my internship by being organized and being able to reflect on the events and duties that happen each day.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
I have learned that everyone should be flexible and to be prepared to do other job duties besides what the position calls for.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
One piece of advice for other students would be to keep a notebook with all your materials in it. To work towards your hours as much as possible and to be flexible.
Expected graduation date: Fall 2018
Location of internship: Elkhorn Elementary School, Frankfort, Kentucky, United States
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
I do everything that the Guidance Counselor does in her day, whether that is providing one-on-one support to a student, teaching guidance lessons, participating in SST meetings, or going on home visits - no 2 days are ever the same.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
"The Family Sciences curriculum very much helped me to succeed in my counseling based internship. The skills, strategies, and professional ethical standards l that I acquired in FAM360, Introduction to Family Intervention: Working with Families and Individuals, were practices that I was able to use everyday. "
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
Patience.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Take every opportunity to learn something new in your internship.
Expected graduation date: Fall 2018
Location of internship: New City Church
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
Volunteer recruitment, admin tasks, create systems for connection, event planning, mentor leaders, connect families and guests to ministries, greet and welcome guests, make phone calls to guests that filled out connection cards.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I am using communication, networking, diversity, human development, team building, counseling, leadership, community development, relationship building, family dynamics.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
I have gained insight in how to work as a team, work for a growing organization, utilize communication skills, understand how a non profit works, understand and grow a team of volunteers, network and partner with other organizations.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Build relationships and network and invest in the people at your internship, those relationships will grow you and help you in your future job searches.
Expected graduation date: Fall 2018
Location of internship: Mary Todd Elementary
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
Typically at my internship I assist the teacher with the students with small reading groups. I also taught two lessons on poetry and main ideas.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
In the classroom I am using my knowledge acquired from my family science courses.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
I have learned the importance of being patient with children and understanding that each individual is unique.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
I would suggest making sure your internship is something that you are passionate. I also suggest that you be as professional as possible considering this could be a permanent position for you in the future.
Expected graduation date: Fall 2018
Location of internship: One Parent Scholar House
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
I arrive at 7 A.M and go into Preschool B room until Infants A supervisor arrives and go in there and wait for the babies to come. When they come, I take care of my responsibilities by watching them, playing with them, feeding them, and assisting with diaper changes. I visit other classrooms as well, the toddler and preschool rooms and socialize and interact with the children.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I am learning the day to day activities and how to care for the children. I've learned how to be more responsible, communicate, and nurturing towards the infants, toddlers, and pre-schoolers.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
The one key thing I've learned during my internship is responsibility.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Treat your internship like a real job.
Expected graduation date: Spring 2019
Location of internship: UK Family Center
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
Create lesson plans focused on bullying for Group therapyWatch therapy videos to gain a better understanding on cases Included helpful opinions and suggestions to therapist Clean and supply all session rooms with what is neededCreate a better organized environment in both session rooms and the clinic office
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
My knowledge of interpersonal relationships as well family processes has helped my knowledge in my internship
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
I have learned that you must have a lot of patience and understand in life. Learn all sides of a story, there is always more than one.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Be open minded, and stay positive. You might end up working there.
Expected graduation date: Spring 2019
Location of internship: Fayette County Circuit Court -Family CourtLexington, KY, USA
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
I sit in court and observe the court procedures, clients, attorneys, the Cabinet, etc. I also update the resource guide.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I use most of the classes about development and counseling during my internship. I do not actually handle cases but I am able to give my feedback on how cases should proceed. I also get to have conversations with attorneys about how my studies will help me in law.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
I have learned to be professional and how to be observant. This internship has taught me how to ask questions beyond what is being presented in order to make sure the truth is being told and case plans are actually being completed.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Pick an internship that you will enjoy because you will spend a lot of time with the people (140 hours to be exact).
Expected graduation date: Fall 2018
Location of internship: Partners for Youth
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
A typical day as an intern includes doing office work and attending meetings.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
Some of my classwork has helped in my internship because it has given me knowledge about different family structures.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
One thing that I have learned during my internship is that their are multiple organizations out their that would be good to work for with my family science degree.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
For this internship you need to have transportation. A lot of time we have to go to different places for different things.
Expected graduation date: Spring 2019
Location of internship: Mary Todd Elementary
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
As an intern, my day usually starts with reading, small group work, assignment help and any other work Ms. Branch needed.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I am using and applying classroom knowledge by approaching each day with an agenda, being sure to ask lots of questions, making sure that I get involved in all activities and ensuring that I help the kids reach their highest potential.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
One key thing I have learned during my internship was that there is a lot of differences in the education system now than it was when I was in elementary school.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
I would say to make sure that you are actually interested in the field that you’re doing your internship for.
Expected graduation date: Fall 2018
Location of internship: UK Human Resources
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
Learning different roles in human resources and working on different projects in human resources.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
my minor is communications I have used very many professionalism skill as well as public speaking and grammar skills.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
I have learning to use SAP which is a system used in University of Kentucky
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
To make sure that you get all the experience you can by asking questions and being engaged.
Expected graduation date: Fall 2018
Location of internship: Community Action Council
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
It could be anything from making calls or filing paperwork to going on home visits or visiting a client in jail. It all just depends on the day.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
Fam360 taught us about client-helper relationships and how to help the client help themselves. That has really aided me at this internship
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
At UK, we learned that at-risk youth in foster care sometimes suffer from a lack of resources, especially when transitioning into adulthood. This internship has enlightened me on the resources Lexington provides for at-risk youth in foster care.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Be outgoing. Listen to everything and be the model employee, even if you aren’t getting paid.
Expected graduation date: Fall 2018
Location of internship: New Life Day Center
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
I do online searches for private and public large donor funding.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I am using the skills I have acquired from my Family Sciences classes to assist those who are homeless and in need. I can provide them with community contacts that can assist them with housing, medical and dental care as well as job training.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
To be resourceful and look for the information. There is a great deal of free information available to you while you are a student.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
Always be willing to ask questions. You may think you are asking something simple but it could make the difference in your overall performance.
Persistence-be willing to keep trying even if you feel like you might not be making any difference you are.
Expected graduation date: Spring 2019
Location of internship: Child Development Center of the Bluegrass
Please describe your typical day as an intern:
My opportunity interning at the Child Development Center of the Bluegrass allowed me to work directly with children and families. Child Development Center of the Bluegrass is dedicated to ensuring that all children reach their full potential by collaborating with families and community partners. I was apart of the team, creating a supportive, challenging environment that includes age-appropriate opportunities for learning new skills.
How are you using and applying classroom knowledge in your internship?
I have been able to see first hand the impact that family systems play on a child’s development, learned how to adapt to the cultural, social and religious needs of the family, and applied social theories, human development and the implications of families across all cultural, racial, medical, and socioeconomic status.
What is one key thing you have learned during your internship?
One key thing I learned through my internship is that communication is vital in maintaining a positive learning environment for children, families, and the facility. The Child Development Center of the Bluegrass is making a positive impact on children’s development through the resources they utilize and programs they team up with.
If you could share one piece of advice for other students who are preparing to complete an internship, what would it be?
It is very important to find an internship that is fitting for you but out of your comfort zone. Make sure to think in advance about what you want to get out of your experience.