Cassidy was an intern for Intermountain Healthcare during Fall 2024.
Briefly explain what you did and the result of your internship.
I observed a child life specialist for 135 hours. I was able to gain a greater understanding of the role of a child life specialist and apply my education to the profession. I completed readings, journals, and assignments each week to apply what I learned and speak to my observational experiences.
What did you learn in your internship that you were not expecting to learn?
I did not expect to learn how under appreciated child life is amongst the healthcare team. Some other professionals love child life and use the specialists in the correct role. Others do not understand child life and the power that child life specialist have.
How have your future plans changed because of what you learned from your internship experience?
They haven't, I was set on my path prior to this experience.
Please share how your experience led to personal inspiration or insightful revelation.
I gain more revelation that I am on the correct career path. I know that a child life specialist can change a hospitalized child's experience. They can be a huge benefit for the interdisciplinary team, patients, and families. I know that I can be of service to God's children as a child life specialist.
Would you recommend this internship to other students?
Yes! 100% it was an amazing experience. You will learn so much. I just gained more passion for this line of work and hope for my future in the child life profession.
Is there anything else you would like to say regarding your internship?
It was a great experience that I would do again if I could!
