Students studying in a master’s of public health program have many great options when they want to improve their resumes. These programs are often great at placing students into internships that allows them to develop skills and build contacts within the industry. Internships at hospitals are great for students who want to get ahead, and it might also be advantageous to work with a non-profit organization that works closely in the healthcare field. The best answer ultimately depends upon the individual student and his or her eventual goals.
A Hospital Internship for Hands-On Leadership Experience in the Health Field
One of the most popular internship routes takes students into a hospital to work with the leadership team at one of those facilities. There are many reasons why a hospital internship might make sense for an MPH student. Large hospitals make big policy decisions that impact a huge number of people in a given community. In addition, students can learn under people who are forced to make important decisions on a daily basis. There are many roles that students may play in a hospital internship, and students with initiative can truly get involved if they’re willing to step out a bit. These jobs also offer the ability to make good professional contacts, especially if you intern where you plan on working.
Non-profit Internships Provide a Rewarding Experience
Some MPH students are looking to make a large impact on public health both in the United States and around the world. For these people, the hospital internship may not be the best bet. Many non-profit organizations work in the health industry, and they rely on young people to execute critical functions. Depending upon your appetite for adventure, you may be able to make an impact in a third-world country. If you want to stay domestic, then plenty of those opportunities exist. If you are looking to work in the public interest sector, then it pays to get this kind of experience during school. Many non-profit organizations look for people who have demonstrated an interest in this kind of work.
Government Experience for Future Policy Makers
For students who want to use their MPH degree to set policy, it can help to work in a government position that deals with public health. The federal government hires interns to work in its healthcare divisions, and many state governments have similar positions available. These jobs provide a nice resume line, and they’re often used as a stepping stone to much better things by students who are smart enough to take advantage of future opportunities.
Public health students have many different potential career options at their disposal. A good internship can make these options a reality, and which one you choose will depend on your future goals. You might work a hospital, a non-profit, or a policy-driven government organization. Each of these has different benefits, and they can all lead to a meaningful career.
Additional Reading: Public Health Careers In The Non-Profit Sector