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Jordan
Student
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Question
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How can I gain experience in the field of public health during college? How do I find places to volunteer or get an internship??
Besides LinkedIn, where can you find opportunities to gain experience?
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2 answers
Allie Stern
Healthcare Sales & Marketing
10
Answers
Santa Rosa, California
Updated
Allie’s Answer
I absolutely love this question! Public health departments or schools often have strong connections with local community groups focused on health. Many public health programs include an internship requirement, typically during your junior or senior year, and they collaborate with these organizations to help place students. For instance, during my senior spring, I interned at a local chapter of an organization promoting racial and gender health equity. It was a fantastic opportunity to gain experience in community health education and grant writing. At one time, I was curious about nutrition and dietetics, so I teamed up with my school's registered dietitian to shadow RDs at a nearby hospital. I also suggest exploring public health organizations for internships or volunteer work. The American Public Health Association (APHA) is an excellent place to start.
Charlotte Geiger
Public Health Science Student at the University of Maryland
151
Answers
Sykesville, Maryland
Updated
Charlotte’s Answer
Hi Jordan,
Gaining experience in public health during college is essential for building your resume and preparing for future careers. Start by exploring opportunities on your campus, such as joining a Public Health club or getting involved in research with a professor who focuses on community health or epidemiology. Many universities also offer student-run clinics or health outreach programs, which can give you hands-on experience. Outside of campus, look for local health departments, non-profit organizations, or community health centers that often need volunteers. Websites like Idealist, Handshake, and PublicHealthJobs are great for finding internships and volunteer positions. You can also check with professional organizations, like the American Public Health Association (APHA), which frequently post internship listings. Volunteering at community health fairs, vaccination clinics, or public health advocacy groups can also provide valuable experience. Networking with professors and attending public health seminars on campus can help you learn about upcoming opportunities. Don’t hesitate to reach out directly to local organizations to ask about volunteering, as many smaller non-profits may not post online. Combining on-campus involvement with community work will give you a well-rounded foundation in public health experience.
Gaining experience in public health during college is essential for building your resume and preparing for future careers. Start by exploring opportunities on your campus, such as joining a Public Health club or getting involved in research with a professor who focuses on community health or epidemiology. Many universities also offer student-run clinics or health outreach programs, which can give you hands-on experience. Outside of campus, look for local health departments, non-profit organizations, or community health centers that often need volunteers. Websites like Idealist, Handshake, and PublicHealthJobs are great for finding internships and volunteer positions. You can also check with professional organizations, like the American Public Health Association (APHA), which frequently post internship listings. Volunteering at community health fairs, vaccination clinics, or public health advocacy groups can also provide valuable experience. Networking with professors and attending public health seminars on campus can help you learn about upcoming opportunities. Don’t hesitate to reach out directly to local organizations to ask about volunteering, as many smaller non-profits may not post online. Combining on-campus involvement with community work will give you a well-rounded foundation in public health experience.