Is it better to do a summer program or apply for an internship?
Hello, My name is Lexy, I am a junior in high school, and I want to go into the medical field. I want to do something this summer in order to get ready for college. I was debating whether to do a summer program or apply for an internship instead, I am searching for some opinions on which is better to do? #medicine #high-school #internship #summer #program
3 answers
Jenn’s Answer
It really depends on the specifics of each one. An internship is not automatically better than a summer program, and vice versa. Here are some questions to consider:
-Which opportunity are you more excited about? Sometimes your gut feeling can be really powerful (and really right!).
-Which one makes more sense logistically? For example, does one cost money and the other doesn't, is one significantly closer to your house, etc.
-Which one relates more to what you want to do within the medical field?
Basically, you want to weigh the pros and cons of each program for you. You want to get the most out of this experience that you can. What are the top 3 things you want to do or learn or experience this summer, and which program do you think is best equipped to help you with those things?
Joe’s Answer
Prior to my wife becoming a nurse she was a Candy Striper, then a CNA. Being that you're in high school, and depending what area of the medical field you want to pursue, internships at your local hospitals may be reserved solely for college students. A good place to start would be reaching out your local hospital's Human Resources department. Most hospitals have a volunteer program for students interested going into the nursing field - Candy Stripers. It's essentially a volunteer program for young people. Volunteering can be incredibly gratifying, as well as provide you with tremendous exposure to all aspects of the medical field - emergency medicine, radiology, pharmacy, physical therapy, intensive care, phlebotomy, administration, etc. Best of luck on your journey!