Glena Antonio
Why did you want to intern at the Washington State Department of Health (DOH)?
I wanted to intern at DOH because of my personal experiences growing up as a Filipino immigrant and witnessing the challenges faced by underserved communities. Growing up in the Philippines, I saw families struggle with limited access to clean water, nutritious food, and health care.
I noticed similar disparities, especially in immigrant and low-income communities, where people worked hard but still faced barriers to living healthy lives. These experiences shaped my desire to help others, particularly in ensuring that basic needs like food, water, and health care are accessible to everyone. Interning at DOH felt like an opportunity to give back, using my background to connect with diverse communities and contribute to initiatives that improve health and well-being for those who need it most.
Hanan Aman
Where are you hoping to take your career next?
I am eager to advance my career in the field of medicine, specifically in dermatology. My next steps include gaining additional clinical experience, continuing my education in medical school, and ultimately specializing in dermatology.
I am also interested in research and plan to seek opportunities that allow me to combine clinical practice with scientific inquiry, particularly regarding skin-related health issues. My internship provided me with valuable laboratory experience, which has strengthened my interest in research, and I aim to build upon that foundation as I move forward.
Jorge Campos Rodriguez
Why did you want to intern at DOH?
Workforce Pathways is a great opportunity for those of marginalized identities who often are underrepresented in public health gain experience in this field and learn about state level public health.
Did anything surprise you during your internship experience about working in public health, or at a state agency?
What surprised me was that I was able to go to a conference during my second week of my internship. It was an incredible opportunity, and I was grateful to be a part of this amazing internship.
Mia Maizel
What was a highlight of your internship experience at the DOH?
The 20 informational interviews I completed were the highlight of my internship. Through these interviews, I started imagining different paths and opportunities available to me that I previously had not known were possible.
Before this internship, I had limited experience interviewing and this practice increased my confidence and comfort. I enjoyed developing my elevator pitch, a list of questions to ask, and skills for engaging with a variety of professionals.
