Written by: Jordan Quintin, Healthcare Administration Intern, CareLink

As I wrap up my summer here at CareLink, I wanted to sit down with my fellow interns to reflect on lessons learned, noteworthy office moments and what it’s really like to secure a coveted CareLink internship. Interns Rachel Maas, a Chemistry major and recent graduate of Kenyon College, and Heath Carmichael, also a Chemistry major and rising senior at Kenyon College, open up about their time at CareLink. As for me, I have greatly enjoyed my time participating in weekly Network Development Team meetings and attending external community provider meetings as a CareLink representative. In working under Mike Walker, I have acquired some of the healthcare jargon that comes with healthcare policy territory and have learned more about the transition from fee-for-service payment models to those that are value-based.

While the interns spent the majority of our internship experience working independently, we had the opportunity to join forces for a telehealth project in which we were tasked with presenting viable telehealth options to the PACE board. It was a unique opportunity to conduct meaningful research on this emerging field in healthcare. We’re excited to see which of these technologies management will implement in the coming months.

Jordan: What did you work on during your time at CareLink?

RM: I researched different vendor options for things like IT services and durable medical equipment. I also worked on improving some of the billing documents. My main project, though, was a research project and presentation on telehealth products that may benefit our clients.

HC: My projects were planning an art project for CareLink’s 20^th anniversary, completing a research project on healthcare technology and designing a business plan for one of PACE’s day centers

Jordan: What did you enjoy the most?

RM: I really enjoyed the telehealth project, and going to meetings to observe how different parts of the company work.

HC: I enjoyed the art project most because it allowed me to engage directly with CareLink members in a collaborative project that I think brought joy to many of the adults CareLink helps serve. It gave me valuable experience in project management and communication.

Jordan: What’s next for you?

 RM: I’ll be sticking around Providence, working as a test tutor, and applying to graduate school.

HC: I am returning to Kenyon college on August 22^nd to (hopefully) complete my senior year.

Jordan: Any advice for next summer’s interns?

 RM: Go to meetings, take notes, and ask questions! Everyone here is really receptive and wants to help you learn.

HC: Get plenty of sleep and jump right in to new experiences.

Jordan: Favorite spots in Rhode Island. Go!

 RM: Beaver Tail Park!

HC: India Point Park. It’s a nice place to jog and they have fun events like a beer and food truck festival I went to.