Part 1: The Impact of Summer Interns on Our Teams

UPDATED: This week, we welcomed a new class of summer interns—92 of them in all at various points in their educational journeys. Some are in high school, the majority completing their undergraduate degrees, and even a few who just graduated a week or two ago. All of them are committed to learning and helping.  

When asked why they chose to work in healthcare this summer, some responded they are here because their parents dedicated their careers to helping patients. Others had a great experience last summer with us and wanted to return and still others felt called to this work. 

Over the next 10 weeks or so, these new interns will join our ranks to support our patients and our community, and they'll continue to explore their answer to the question, "Why do you work in healthcare?" 

We know they’ll learn a lot from you, our dedicated team, and chances are, we’ll also learn a lot from them! So, if you pass an intern during your day or work alongside one, be sure to let them know you’re glad they’re here and welcome them to our ranks! 

Last summer, we welcomed 100 high school and college summer interns, placed in both clinical and non-clinical areas. With vacation months around the corner—a season when supplementary staffing is particularly valuable—a new group of skilled, motivated, and enthusiastic students will soon embark on our campuses.

"These students are critical to our workforce strategy," says Tara Wiedeman, senior director, Human Resources. "Internships provide high school and college students meaningful exposure to our workplace, giving them the opportunity to explore potential career paths and develop connections within their chosen fields." 

As we gear up for the next round of interns, hear what some of our leaders are sharing about their experience hosting interns.

From Our Leaders

Karrie Moses, system senior director, Nursing Support Services

"Our experience with interns has been incredibly positive. They played a meaningful role in supporting our teams by helping to fill critical staffing gaps, particularly during high-volume periods, while maintaining a strong willingness to learn and contribute. Beyond the immediate support they provided, the internship program has allowed us to invest in developing future healthcare professionals, giving them real-world experience, building their confidence, and helping them understand the impact of teamwork and patient-centered care.

We’ve been especially encouraged by our ability to retain several of these interns beyond the summer. Their continued support on weekends and holidays speaks not only to their dedication, but also to the strength of the program in preparing them for ongoing roles within our organization. It’s rewarding to see them grow, and we’re proud to play a part in shaping their future careers while strengthening our teams today.”

Karyn Reese, inpatient nursing director, CRMH 9MPCU and 10MPCU

"I was initially reluctant to host high school interns on my inpatient units last summer because I wasn't sure we would have enough tasks to engage these younger students since they couldn't work clinically with patients.  

However, my experience with high school interns has been overwhelmingly positive. They each brought a fresh perspective, eagerness, and strong work ethic as they learned about operations on the unit. I didn't anticipate the valuable opportunities for mentorship and growth that I would see for not only the interns, but for my core staff as well. 

Since adding two of last summer's interns to my permanent staff, I have continued to see their contributions to my units as they add to a positive culture and overall morale. When they are working, linens are stocked, the units are clean and organized, and they are willing to tackle any task that I may request of them. They also present a friendly, welcoming face to those who step onto the units, setting the stage for a better experience for our patients and families who may just need to see a smile. 

Taking the time and being creative with how we invest in the future of healthcare and potential new employees is so important. I couldn't be prouder to be a part of this program and look forward to welcoming four more interns this summer!" 

Catherine Townley, unit director, Clinical Transport, Bed Management, Discharge Hospitality Lounge

"Being able to work with the interns has been an incredibly rewarding experience. They come to us with diverse backgrounds and a wide range of future aspirations, yet they all share the same enthusiasm for learning and commitment to providing excellent patient care. For many, this was their first experience in a healthcare setting, but each intern fully dedicated themselves to the opportunity.

Throughout the program, they were able to explore various areas of the hospital and gain a deeper understanding of the network of healthcare professionals involved in each patient’s journey. Their contributions significantly supported patient throughput, and they even assisted the CVI units during the transition into the Crystal Spring Tower.

Clinical Transport retained 10 of the 19 interns from the previous summer, and they continue to contribute to staffing needs, particularly during weekends and holidays. In addition, two interns from last year’s cohort were rehired to participate in this year’s program. The return of former interns is a strong indicator of the program’s positive impact and its effectiveness in fostering interest among individuals pursuing careers in healthcare."

Melissa Zimmerman, practice manager, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Aortic and Endovascular Surgery

“Interns bring fresh perspectives that help us see things differently and spark new ideas. They also strengthen our connection to the community and reflect our commitment to growing future talent. At the same time, working with interns helps our teams build leadership skills through mentoring, collaboration, and sharing what they know.”

Jessica Garland, operations manager, Central Resource Center

"When I first learned that Carilion allows leaders to request interns for their departments, I’ll admit I felt a bit intimidated. Still, I saw it as an opportunity worth embracing, and it proved to be one of the best decisions I’ve made. That first year, I requested 4 interns. It was a bold move, but watching them take on new challenges, contribute fresh ideas, and demonstrate their potential was inspiring.

Last year, I scaled back to 2 interns, which allowed us to provide a more personalized, hands‑on experience. Both interns requested to return this year, and we were delighted to welcome them back.

Each year, the internship program has brought energy, insight, and growth to our department. Seeing our interns develop their skills while my team grows alongside them has been incredibly rewarding. Thank you, Carilion, for continuing to offer this opportunity and for helping shape the future of our workforce."

To learn more about our internship programs and other student and career development opportunities, visit our new Students and Early Career Development website.