Strong Work Ethic Yields Rare Second Internship

Kris Klamrowski was quite content to end her summer with one MCFI internship under her belt. In August 2010, however, the Alverno College psychology major was pleasantly surprised to learn that she would need to create space on her resume for yet another of the agency's work study programs.

MCFI does not require interns to make a two-semester commitment, so - while not unprecedented - consecutive field placements are fairly uncommon. According to Andrea Peterson, interim Older Adult Day Center manager, the decision to award Kris another internship at the Center for the fall semester was a "no-brainer" and filled a mutual need for both parties.

"Since offering her the first internship last May, Kris has demonstrated a high level of initiative and involvement and has been willing to take on any task thrown her way," said Andrea. "So, since we wanted to expand the center's recreational offerings and because Kris is so capable, the decision to bring her back was an easy call."

"I was ecstatic," added Kris, who needed to complete a second internship in order to fulfill her graduation requirements. "I never thought I'd have the opportunity to pursue a career with a community-based organization, so to continue to intern here was the best news."

Kris's OADC responsibilities include identifying, designing and implementing new activities for clients, developing lesson plans and conducting therapeutic activity assignments. She finds that measuring the progress of older adult clients is a particularly rewarding aspect of her work at MCFI.

"I really like getting to know clients and then build games or activities around their personalities that will improve their cognitive functions," Kris said. "It's very exciting to work here two days a week and witness their growth."

Ideally, Kris would like to parlay her internships into a full-time position in MCFI's Case Management program. But no matter what the future holds, she's grateful for the opportunity to learn and hone her skills at MCFI.

"I've gotten the best experience I could have hoped for and more patient contact than in any previous job," said Kris, who will graduate in December, 2010. "A case manager will work with 30 to 40 clients, so whether my next job is here or elsewhere, these internships have prepared me to handle a large case load. I'm pleased to be have been able to both further my career and help the community."

For more information on MCFI Internships, click here.