Summer Internship at The Love Yourself Foundation

            My experience as an Administrative and Wellness Coordinator Intern at The Love Yourself Foundation (LYF) has been transformative. This internship has shaped my career goals and personal growth in many ways.  

            Aspiring to become a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, my time at LYF has been invaluable. LYF's values and daily practices align with my career goals and have provided me with lessons that I will carry forward. One of the most significant takeaways has been the importance of a positive and supportive workplace. At LYF, I've seen how a team should function- everyone is open-minded, empathetic, and willing to embrace new ideas and people. Experiencing this kind of environment has shown me the type of workplace I want to be a part of or create in the future. I will strive to seek out or build workplaces that treat their employees as well as LYF does. Another important lesson from LYF that I’ll carry with me is the practice of gratitude. Each meeting begins with everyone sharing something they are grateful for. While this might seem small, it has had a huge impact on my perspective. Regularly expressing gratitude has naturally shifted my outlook on life. I plan to incorporate this practice into my future therapeutic sessions or team meetings, as it fosters a positive and reflective environment.

            My internship at LYF ties perfectly into my major in psychology. LYF's mission, as the name suggests, emphasizes the importance of self-love and self-care. This philosophy aligns with my goal of helping future clients foster self-compassion and resilience. The foundation's focus on alternative healing methods, such as art, music, and yoga, has reinforced my belief in exploring diverse therapeutic options beyond traditional medication. While I acknowledge the critical role of medication for some individuals, I am now even more committed to offering a holistic approach to mental health.

            For this internship, specific educational prerequisites were not essential, as comprehensive training was provided. The organization encouraged asking for help and offered regular check-ins to support interns. However, having an organized and detail-oriented personality, along with basic computer literacy, was advantageous for my administrative role. The inclusive and supportive culture at LYF ensures that anyone who aligns with their values can thrive.

            After working with LYF, I am interested in pursuing a career in administration within the mental health field. I enjoy being organized and facilitating others' success. To secure a full-time position at LYF or a similar organization, I believe it's crucial to be self-sufficient, goal-driven, and passionate about mental health and empowerment. LYF is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping others and making a positive impact, rather than focusing on profit, and this mission resonates deeply with me.

            My advice for incoming interns is to be yourself and embrace your unique strengths. LYF values diversity and encourages open communication. You have the choice to merely fulfill the minimum requirements or to deeply engage with LYF's mission, attend events, build connections, and spread love and knowledge. The more you put into this internship, the more you will gain from it.