Practical Experience: Internships provide an opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to real-world healthcare settings. It gives you hands-on experience in performing medical assistant duties, working with patients, and collaborating with healthcare professionals. This practical experience is invaluable in preparing you for the demands and challenges of the job. Internships are a part of the curriculum for students attending the Allen School of Health Sciences who are studying to become medical assistants.
Skill Development: Internships allow you to further develop and refine your skills as a medical assistant. You can practice and enhance your clinical skills, such as taking vital signs, administering injections, performing EKGs, and assisting with minor procedures. Additionally, you can improve your communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills through interactions with patients, healthcare providers, and other staff members. At the Allen School of Health Sciences, students receive 275 hours of an internship component to assist them in developing their skills.
Professional Networking: Internships provide an excellent opportunity to network with professionals in the healthcare field. You can establish connections with physicians, nurses, medical assistants, and other healthcare professionals who can provide guidance, mentorship, and potential job opportunities in the future. Building a strong professional network can be highly beneficial for your career growth and advancement.
Exposure to Different Specialties: Internships may offer exposure to various medical specialties or healthcare settings. This allows you to gain insight into different areas of healthcare and helps you explore your interests and potential career paths. It can help you make informed decisions about your future career goals and whether you want to specialize in a specific area of medicine. If you have long term goals about becoming a registered nurse, this is a great way to establish yourself in the medical field before moving on to nursing.
Resume Building: Having internship experience on your resume can enhance your job prospects as a medical assistant. Employers value candidates with practical experience, as it demonstrates your ability to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting. Internships can make you stand out among other candidates and increase your chances of securing employment after graduation.
Professional Confidence: Internships provide an opportunity to build confidence in your abilities as a medical assistant. By working in a healthcare setting, interacting with patients, and performing tasks under the supervision of experienced professionals, you gain confidence in your skills and develop a sense of professionalism. This confidence will carry forward into your future career as a medical assistant.
Professional References: Successful completion of an internship can lead to positive references from healthcare professionals who have supervised and mentored you during your internship. These references can be valuable when applying for jobs or furthering your education, as they vouch for your skills, work ethic, and professionalism.
Internships in a medical assistant program offer a bridge between classroom learning and real-world practice. They provide a platform for skill development, networking, and professional growth, setting the foundation for your success as a medical assistant. Wanting to learn more about internships in the medical field? Discover the Allen School medical assistant program today! Contact us www.allenschool.edu