Intern Profile: Alicia Callejo-Black BA ’14
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Alicia Callejo-Black BA ’14
Major: Psychology
Hometown: San Francisco, California
Can you tell us what you’re doing this summer? What are your basic duties as an intern?
This summer I am interning at Doernbecher Healthy Lifestyles Clinic (DHLC), a pediatric outpatient service that works to initiate behavioral change for high body mass index (BMI) children and their families. The multidisciplinary clinical team includes a pediatrician, psychologist, nutritionist, and physical therapist, who each work with the child and family to set health goals such as increasing exercise or changing diet. As an intern, I will be working on several ongoing projects, including data collection and input from patient surveys, the creation and distribution of a monthly newsletter, and follow-up health counseling calls. I am also shadowing the clinical visits and attending talks and events at OHSU such as pediatric grand rounds.
How has Lewis & Clark supported you in the process of finding, securing, and funding your internship?
When I initially decided to apply for the Miller Summer Internship Award, I sought out the advice of Todd Watson, assistant professor of psychology and pre-med advisor, to help me write a cover letter to send to potential internships. I knew that I wanted to work in a clinical setting and Professor Watson helped me focus on a few that would be the best fit for my academic and career interests. I chose DHLC because I wanted to work in behavioral medicine and pediatrics. Once I made contact with pediatrician Natasha Polensek, I worked with Professor Watson and my academic advisor, Professor of Psychology Tom Schoeneman, to finalize my application for the award.
How do you see this internship leading to a career in your chosen field and aiding in your in your overall career development?
I am interested in pursuing a career in medicine—specifically pediatrics—and believe that this internship is a fantastic opportunity. I will continue to volunteer for DHLC throughout the year, working with the clinic team members to initiate and continue ongoing projects such as the newsletter or data collection and analysis. I will also continually attend pediatric talks throughout the year, learning about current research and best practices in the pediatric health community. I look forward to helping out in the pediatric clinic and learning as much as I can about behavioral health and preventative medicine.
Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about your experience thus far?
It has been amazing to see the transformations of some of the families at the clinic. Although I have only been able to see their health achievements for the past three months, the engagement and interest that families show for learning healthier habits is inspiring. I look forward to helping create inspiration and motivation for these children and their families as they continue to work toward their goal of a healthy lifestyle.
The purpose of the Miller Summer Internship Award is to underwrite or supplement expenses of students at Lewis & Clark College who are engaged in scientific research internships in the mathematical and natural sciences. This opportunity is made possible by a generous grant from the Miller Foundation.
