Beyond Experiential Learning

The internship is not all about learning or training; it can go far beyond that to touch us personally. Sometimes we do relate to the mission of the institution we are working for. At other times, we tend to make some comparisons or link our work to the real life and even notice things that can affect us personally.

 Actually, interning at an organization the size of the eldercare Workforce Alliance is a once-in-a-lifetime chance, to say the least. One aspect that touched me personally is the mission of the alliance and the 30 organizations it encompasses. In the United States, it is know that Baby Boomers are turning 65 soon. As such, a well-trained, highly qualified workforce is needed to provide the necessary care to those soon-to-be older adults, and herein the alliance step to take the necessary actions. Apparently, this is a farsighted vision to solve a problem that will loom in the horizon soon. It is better to be ready to sort out an issue before its very occurrence that to wait till it takes place. This technique allows no room for band-aids or quick fixes that exacerbate the problem rather than solve it.

                Interestingly enough, I have been working there for about a month and I realized that the first and foremost trait that can bring about success at work is interpersonal communication. Exquisite communication skills give rise to having connections and acquaintances. As a matter of fact, connections are rather salient, can open many locked doors and a good way for job referrals. In the current job market, who you know is very much important than what you know, or so I think.  Sometimes they can substitute a resume if you are going to work with them or for the institutions they are employed in. They can be references in the resume too.

Additionally, I have learnt a great deal about the health system and Obamacare in the Unites States, which is utterly different from the subsidized decrepit health system in my home country, Egypt. Seniors here receive decent end-of-life care and treatment and have some organizations to let their voices heard. Apparently, it seems we in Egypt are very lagged behind and have a long way to go to come to par with such advanced countries as the United States.

Moreover, I realized during my job search that the location of the internship was one of the determining factors that encouraged me to apply for some internship opportunities of my interest. Commuting is sometimes time-consuming. I just do not want to waste my time, money and efforts to commute to and from the internship workplace. That does not necessarily mean that I am a couch potato or afraid to get out of my shell to explore the world around me.

To sum up, the internship added a lot to my character, mentality and skill set. I am sure it will shape my career path and will definitely have substantial repercussions on me later on in my life.