This summer, ten Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota psychology students are putting their education into action through paid internships across the Midwest. After completing the Internship Planning course with the Psychology Department and with the help of Career Services, each student secured a paid, professional internship where they are applying classroom knowledge while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Collectively, the cohort will complete more than 3,150 hours of experiential learning while serving children, adolescents, and adults in behavioral health, education, residential treatment, and community settings. Although students are working in different locations, they continue learning together. Throughout the summer, the internship cohort meets weekly via Zoom for group supervision led by Dr. Stephanie Thorson-Olesen, assistant professor of psychology. These sessions provide opportunities for students to reflect on their experiences, discuss ethical and professional issues, connect psychological theory to practice, and support one another as they develop their professional identity.
The impact of these internships is evident in the students’ reflections. For example, Sophia Smith shared, “Interning in an intensive residential treatment center with SpringPath Mental Health has been a great experience in being able to apply coursework in real-world settings. It has allowed me to learn more about person-centered care and harm reduction treatment.” Similarly, Megan McGinnis said, “Doing an internship has allowed me to gain experience in a field I am interested in with awesome supervisors to guide me along the way!” Maddie Baker echoed those sentiments, saying, “My internship has been very rewarding. It has been good to learn more about what I want to do in the future and to gain confidence in the field!” Lexi Repinski added, “It’s a great experience, and you can use it for future job interview answers!”
Beyond developing professional skills, students also described the personal growth they have experienced throughout the summer. Talaya Ryan reflected, “My internship has helped me gain knowledge that will help me decide my future direction and allowed me to have wonderful psychology connections.” Amanda Teschky shared, “So far, I’ve been really enjoying my internship. I’m able to help improve these campers’ experience as well as grow mine! This place has allowed me to grow in multiple settings by seeing different perspectives and scenarios, which will help me with my career in the future.” Samya Brown added, “I really enjoyed the experience. It has taught me to be patient and resilient. I love seeing the improvement within myself and my students. This internship will be very beneficial for my future career.”
Together, their reflections demonstrate how experiential learning enables psychology students to translate classroom learning into compassionate, evidence-based practice while preparing for meaningful careers serving others.
