Current Tufts student, Caroline Turcke ’27, spent this past summer interning at Terry Reilly Health Services. Read all about Caroline’s experience as an intern.
What did you do as an intern at this organization?
As an intern at Terry Reilly Health Services, I worked on the Early Childhood Development Team to improve developmental outcomes for patients ages zero to five. I also worked with a pediatrician to help engage patients in developmental assessments such as the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) and the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) during well-child checks at the clinic. I created a resource directory to improve patient access to support services and early learning programs such as Headstart and developmental preschool. I presented research to medical clinicians addressing the impact of culture on the reception of an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis and how to cater medical services to provide culturally-informed developmental care.
How did you find this Internship?
I reached out to my supervisor via email in search of opportunities.
What did you enjoy most about your internship?
I most enjoyed shadowing my supervisor during well-child checks at the clinic. I felt so privileged to observe the trust in her that patients displayed and the care with which she addressed all patient needs. She was an incredible mentor, and I learned a lot about child development under her tutelage.
What did you find challenging about your internship?
While my internship experience was incredibly rewarding, it did not come without its challenges. I learned a lot about how bureaucratic logistics impact patient care. There were instances where an outreach event or partnership with an outside organization was delayed due to bureaucratic operations that I was previously unaware of. I learned a lot about how these behind-the-scenes pieces impact how healthcare organizations function.
What advice would you offer to someone who wants to make the most of an internship like yours?
My advice for future interns would be to pay attention to what makes you curious and not hesitate to ask questions. Your supervisor is meant to help guide you through your internship, and in my experience, is more than willing to answer any questions to help you get the most out of the opportunity. In addition to this, it is important to not be afraid to advocate for yourself and share your goals with your supervisor. This ensures that you are on the same page and allows you to more easily reflect on your experience.
