Hometown: Byron Center, Michigan

Major and class standing: Professional Writing, Junior

Instagram: lizmccadden

Where you interned at: Spectrum Health, Grand Rapids, Michigan

What was your internship title and role/responsibilities?

This was my second year interning on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Team in the Human Resources Department at Spectrum Health. Through this internship, I was able to gain insight into possible career paths as well as gain experience in a Human Resources role. My responsibilities were to design a new website for the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Team as well as create an onboarding process for new hires at Spectrum Health. Along with these roles, I was able to work closely with each Inclusion Resource Group to help employees find their voice in their community!

How did you obtain your internship? What resources did you utilize to secure your internship?

I obtained this internship through the Handshake website at MSU. I applied the first year and was offered the opportunity and then I was asked to come back for a second year!

What did your daily routine include?

My daily routine included morning Teams meetings from 8 to 10 am. After that, I would do some website design until my lunch break. After that, I would meet with my mentor and talk about different career pathways, and she would give me an assignment for the week!

Your favorite experience from the internship?

My favorite experience from my internship was the opportunity to be able to tour the various Spectrum Health facilities. I was able to see the helicopter pad for emergency medicine as well as different simulation systems throughout the different hospitals.

What was your least favorite part of the internship?

My least favorite part of my internship was the Teams meetings because I would have preferred face-to-face, however, I understand why we are still virtual.

What skills did you learn and/or build upon during your internship?

I was able to build upon my Human Resources and communication skills as well as learn different website design skills.

What did you learn about the industry or your career path as a result of the internship? What are your future plans?

I was able to learn more about what career path I want to go into through career explorations at Spectrum Health. My future plans are to work in the Nutrition Services sector at Spectrum Health and eventually become a Nutrition Services Supervisor who does the hiring for the team!

What advice do you have for other students seeking out internship opportunities?

Look on different career websites! Handshake LinkedIn, etc. are your friend. Expand your network and talk to your professors about your career interests. My professors have been some of the most influential people in steering me toward job opportunities!