My fall semester internship was with an agency called Safe Nest. This nonprofit organization based in Las Vegas is centered around crisis advocacy for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and sex trafficking. I have the benefit of trying out multiple positions with the company. In the first half of the semester, I completed a domestic violence course that helped me become eligible to be an on-scene- crisis advocate, where I was able to work with metro police officers on scene as a PS417 volunteer, providing resource and genuine support to victims. The remaining half of the semester I transitioned over to the domestic violence shelter, where I was able to be more hands on with clients, their children, and even their pets. This gave me a deeper connection to what the purpose of this organization does. Aside from providing various toiletries or food items, I had the opportunity to provide a safe space for clients to open up to me about their trauma, share their positive news with, solve their small disputes, and also connect with the children from infancy to teens. This internship aligned with my psychology major and future career goals as I have been studying many courses that have taught me to be trauma informative, unbiased, quick to problem-solving, open-minded, and ethical. I’ve always wanted to one day give patients a judgmental-free space to feel comfortable and open so I can hopefully have a positive effect on their lives. I am very thankful for the opportunities I’ve been given while working with Safe Nest, as I have been sent an offer letter for a permanent position at the domestic violence shelter. I truly feel as though I’ve made a new family this semester and I look forward to joining the team full time! One advice I would give future interns is to be open-minded when considering this position. It’s definitely not a easy job, can it’s critical to make time for your own self-care and mental health, but it’s one of the most rewarding jobs I have ever experienced.
