This summer, I'm interning with NAMI Southern Nevada. I feel like this internship has benefited my future career in several ways. One, I have developed and improved skills such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, I have also gained extensive knowledge on mental health resources, youth programs, and LGBTQIA+ organizations in SNV, which will be useful in the School Psychologist career. As I complete my internship, I believe my skills will continue to grow and I will continue to learn more essential information for the field I am going into. My internship definitely ties into my major, which is psychology. NAMI, or the National Alliance on Mental Illness, educates community members about what it is like to live with mental illness, have a loved one with mental illness, and the resources available to them. I do think that being a psychology major has helped greatly in my ability to understand what NAMI does and adapt quickly to the intern role.
This internship has most definitely helped me solidify my decision to become a School Psychologist. It has shown me how children may struggle with mental illness while in school, and has also educated me on what resources can be provided to them as well as their families. In order to achieve this, I would need to obtain an Ed.S. degree in School Psychology. I would also need to have excellent communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. In terms of training, I'm not 100% sure about any additional training courses needed before entering the field, but I do know that working with mental health organizations or organizations that deal with children provide beneficial experiences to help you excel.
For incoming interns, I want to say that its important to try to go outside of your comfort zone sometimes. Doing this allows you to learn new things and gain new experiences that might greatly benefit you later on in life. Most importantly, make sure you manage your time well. This is something I struggle with personally, but have improved upon since starting my internship. Internships can be a lot of work, so make sure you plan out a schedule where you won't become overwhelmed!
Love your advice to get outside of your comfort zone! Such good advice!
Hey Jae!! I just wanted to say it is awesome to work with you as a fellow NAMI intern, you are killing it in the meetings we share!!
Hi Jae! Your internship seems very interesting and the amount of knowledge your obtaining for you future career I'm sure will serve you of much benefit. I agree with your piece of advice in learning to manage your time. I've also seen an improvement in how I manage my time with all the activities and responsibilities I am required to accomplish. However, it has been challenging. Nonetheless, this internship has been a great learning experience all around. My best wishes to you and your career goals!