Beyond the Classroom

In recent decades, internships have undergone a significant transformation, evolving from primarily administrative roles to meaningful opportunities for professional growth. At Oakwood, this shift is evident in its new internship program, which welcomed its first intern class over the summer.

Gone are the days when interns were relegated to menial tasks. Today, they are actively involved in projects that directly contribute to the department and organization’s mission and goals. The interns at Oakwood have demonstrated their ability to innovate and create solutions that have led to significant changes within the organization.

Thanks to the generous support of Oakwood donors, the internship program was able to offer opportunities for young professionals in six departments over the summer. Interns brought their talents to Human Resources, Marketing, Oakwood Preferred Services, Physical Therapy, Sales, and Social Work.

One of the most valuable aspects of the internship program is the unique skill set that interns bring to the table. “Their fresh perspectives and understanding of emerging trends, particularly in the realm of social media, offer a valuable counterpoint to the established ways of doing things. These disruptors have the potential to challenge the status quo and drive positive change,” says Suz Rafferty, Chief Human Resources Officer at Oakwood Village.

The staff at Oakwood has been overwhelmingly positive about the impact of the internship program. They have praised the interns for their hard work, enthusiasm, and willingness to share their innovative ideas. Even the residents have noticed the positive contributions made by the interns.

The inaugural internship program has been a resounding success, demonstrating the potential for meaningful and productive experiences for both the interns and the organization. As leaders at Oakwood witness the growth and development of these young professionals, they are more likely to support the expansion of the program in the coming years.

Talent Development & Human Resources Director, Mary Bjorklund was instrumental in creating the program. “A strong internship helps an intern grow and develop into the person they’ll be when they leave school. A well-rounded internship guides a well-rounded person in finding their career path,” shares Mary.

The internship program at Oakwood is not only a valuable tool for attracting and developing talent but also a way to introduce individuals to the industry who may not have previously considered it as a career path. By providing meaningful opportunities for professional growth, Oakwood is positioning itself as a leader in the field and setting a new standard for internships.

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