Frequently Asked Questions for Interns and Supervisors
Who is this program for?
The Women’s Health Internship Program is open to high school, college, graduate, and professional school students, as well as recent graduates at all academic levels. Participants come from a broad range of (self-reported) ethnic identities, age range, and skill level.
What does the program consist of?
Interns participating in our internship program will divide their time into two components: an internship project and the leadership curriculum. Interns will work on a designated women’s health project ideally aligned with their skills, interests, goals, time commitment and availability of projects. In addition, the interns will have the opportunity to attend a series of events that will help guide the intern in his or her own personal and professional development.
How long is an internship?
The internship generally runs 3-4 months often in conjunction with the standard academic calendar. Some may be shorter or longer. The internship allows the intern and the supervisor some flexibility to determine a mutually agreed upon time for the individual to work. Overall, we generally follow the schedule below:
Cycle |
Dates of Internship |
Spring |
Jan – April |
Summer |
May – August |
Fall/Winter |
September – December |
Additionally, we ask that interns make a minimum commitment of 10-15 hours/week for 12 weeks, although the specific time commitment will be largely dependent on the individual project.
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What are some examples of internship projects?
Intern projects vary in complexity and subject matter. Past women's health interns have:
- Shadowed health care professionals
- Acted as a resource person for patients
- Developed program proposals that received funding.
- Conducted and compiled evaluations of clinical programs and community events.
- Prepared manuscripts for publication in academic journals.
- Developed health information resource guides for health professionals (for example, A Guide to Disordered Eating Resources in the Bay Area).
- Conducted research on areas of interest and presented findings at professional conferences.
- Helped with the organization and planning of conferences that brought together researchers and community members to discuss relevant issues.
Who selects the intern?
The Internship Coordinator will review all applications and conduct interviews with each qualified applicant. The Coordinator then matches interns with available projects, taking into consideration the intern’s skills and interests, as well as the needs of the project. To provide an ideal match with all the variables considered, please also keep in mind that the placement process can sometimes be lengthy and complex.
Are the students paid for their internship?
No, internships are unpaid. However, if students need academic credit we can certainly accommodate this.
What if it’s just not working?
The internship experience must work for both the supervisor and the intern. The Internship Coordinator will assist with communication, make periodic contacts and help out with any problems that may develop. We acknowledge the possibility of unsuccessful placements and encourage the supervisor and the intern to recognize when the placement isn’t going well. The Coordinator will assist the supervisor and the intern in making an orderly transition.
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