We invite you to join us as we sit down with student Brookelle O'Riley to learn more about her experience with Individual Study at Evergreen through their internship experiences during the 2024 Winter and Spring quarters. Brookelle is studying clinical psychology at Evergreen. This interview was conducted by Winter Bee, Student Writer and Intern with the Internships Office. Winter Bee is denoted as WB and Brookelle O'Riley is denoted as BO in this interview.
WB: Hi! What is your name? And what pronouns do you use?
BO: Hello, my name is Brookelle O’Riley and I use She/Her or They/Them pronouns.
WB: Can you share a bit about your background and interests that led you to want to pursue the internship you participated in?
BO: Sure, I am deeply interested in integrative medicine, exploring different world medical systems to see how holistic interventions, lifestyles, and modalities can support people. This interest led me to study clinical psychology, focusing on how systems are created to support health and wellbeing in a mental health clinical context. My background in bodywork and massage sparked my curiosity about how the body heals, and I have learned that an unhealthy vibe can lead to an unhealthy body.
WB: How did you learn about or become interested in the internship that you participated in?
BO: I was in a year-long clinical psychology capstone where it was a requirement to do an internship with the Haven House. This requirement was the reason I chose to go into this program. I dedicated 300 hours to the program with this special nonprofit organization in Olympia, working from January to mid-June, seven days a week while also attending classes.
WB: Can you share some memorable moments or highlights from your internship experience?
BO: There were many joyful moments helping the kids at the Haven House, a non-profit centered around providing a safe place for at-risk youth in transitional housing, ages 12-17. I enjoyed watching the kids progress with their development of life skills, coping skills, and relational skills. I remember helping a youth who struggled with self-regulation and impulse control. This youth wanted to bake for her visit with her mom, from whom she had been separated. Initially, the youth was frazzled and overwhelmed, unable to be present with measuring ingredients and avoiding breaking things. In the end I watched this youth learn how to bake and become present within the kitchen.
WB: How was the process for registering the internship contract and who was able to help you?
BO: The process for registering the internship contract was integrated into the clinical program.
WB: Would you recommend this internship to someone else?
BO: Yes, I would definitely recommend this internship to someone else, especially to those interested in gaining hands-on experience in a non-profit setting while working with at-risk youth. It's a rewarding experience that allows you to make a positive impact on the lives of these kids even if there are challenges.
WB: What advice would you give to someone who has never done an internship before and is considering it?
BO: For someone who has never done an internship before and is considering it, I would advise them to choose an internship that aligns with their interests and career goals. It's essential to be open-minded, willing to learn, and proactive in seeking opportunities to gain valuable experience. Also, don't be afraid to ask questions, seek guidance from mentors, and make the most of the learning opportunities that come your way.
