Marina Mejía
Professor Guadaño
SPAN 369
13 December 2024
Final Internship Reflection
My internship at Chesapeake Care Clinic this semester has been one of the most enlightening and transformative experiences of my academic and professional journey. Working as an interpreter allowed me to step into a professional environment that highlighted the complexities and rewards of providing healthcare to underserved communities. Although my primary responsibilities were in the health clinic, the moments I spent in the dental clinic were what truly captured my attention. Watching procedures such as root canals, extractions, denture fittings, and adjustments left a profound impression on me. These experiences were not just fascinating but solidified my passion for dentistry.
I was amazed by the intricacy of the dental procedures I observed and found myself completely engrossed in the process. Rather than feeling squeamish, I leaned in closer, eager to learn more about the steps involved in patient care. This reaction confirmed that I am pursuing the right career path. Dentistry has always interested me, but seeing it in practice deepened my excitement and commitment. These moments provided clarity about the type of work I want to do in the future. In contrast, the administrative tasks I was assigned, such as translating English documents into Spanish and completing paperwork, while important, ignited a different level of interest. This realization helped me identify that I am best suited for a hands-on, patient facing role, rather than an administrative one. This distinction has been invaluable in shaping my professional aspirations.
The academic foundation I built at Old Dominion University was essential in preparing me for this internship and bridging the gap between theory and practice. Courses like Anatomy & Physiology and Microbiology provided critical knowledge I found myself referencing during my time at the clinic. For example, understanding the structure and function of the human body helped me comprehend the biological processes behind the dental procedures I observed. These classes gave me a deeper appreciation for the science behind healthcare and allowed me to contextualize what I witnessed in the clinic.
Interpersonal Communication was another course that proved invaluable during my internship. The skills I developed in this class enabled me to interact effectively with patients and staff, building trust and facilitating smooth communication. Additionally, Spanish 323, which focused on global cultures, gave me the tools to connect with patients on a more personal level. This was particularly helpful when working with patients from diverse backgrounds, as I could engage them in conversations about their countries’ education systems, gastronomy, and other cultural elements. For instance, the clinic’s food pantry sparked discussions about the types of foods that are significant in their cultures, allowing me to establish a sense of connection and understanding. These interactions underscored the importance of cultural competency in healthcare and demonstrated how academic learning can enhance practical experience.
One of the most significant aspects of my internship was the opportunity to develop my communication skills, both verbal and written. Over time, I noticed a significant improvement in my ability to communicate effectively in Spanish. My accent became more polished, and I grew more comfortable navigating conversations with individuals who spoke different regional variations of Spanish. This newfound confidence allowed me to connect with patients more authentically and provide them with the support they needed. On the written side, translating formal medical documents into Spanish expanded my understanding of medical terminology and improved my ability to navigate complex texts. These skills are crucial in reducing language barriers and ensuring equitable care for patients who do not speak English.
Teamwork was another key element of my internship experience. Collaborating with classmates and clinic staff taught me the importance of clear communication and mutual support in a professional environment. We often worked together to learn new terminology, share patient responsibilities, and practice effective communication techniques. However, there were moments when miscommunications arose, such as when schedules or work hours were confused. These challenges required us to address issues directly and collaboratively find solutions. This experience taught me that effective teamwork is not just about dividing tasks but also about fostering an environment of open communication and trust.
Reflecting on this internship, I am struck by how much it has taught me about myself and my career aspirations. It was a defining moment that clarified my desire to specialize in dentistry and reinforced my commitment to serving my community. The combination of academic knowledge and practical experience allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare field and the specific role I want to play within it.
This semester also helped me recognize the areas of healthcare that resonate with me and those that do not. While I appreciate the importance of the medical clinic and administrative work, I discovered that these roles are not where my passion lies. Instead, I found myself drawn to the dental clinic, where the hands on work and direct interaction with patients energized me. I also realized that I particularly enjoy working with children, as their resilience and energy inspire me. Moving forward, I plan to build on these experiences and focus on developing the skills needed to work in pediatric dentistry within underserved communities.
This internship has been both heartwarming and transformative, offering me a unique opportunity to combine academic learning with real-world application. It taught me the value of cultural competency, effective communication, and teamwork in providing quality care. These lessons are deeply interconnected and have given me a solid foundation to build upon as I move forward in my career.
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have worked at Chesapeake Care Clinic and for the lessons it has taught me. This experience not only reinforced my passion for dentistry but also deepened my appreciation for the role of healthcare professionals in serving their communities. I am excited to take the knowledge and skills I have gained and use them to make a meaningful impact in my field, continuing to grow both personally and professionally.