FNU’s Courier Program Public Health Internship is a seven-week rural and public health service-learning program, returning this summer from June 10-August 2, 2024. It has a rich and adventuresome history that targets college undergraduate students with an interest in public health, healthcare, or a related field. The application deadline is April 12, 2024.
The Courier Program Public Health Internship offers a unique opportunity for students to gain insight into the challenges and opportunities of providing healthcare in rural and underserved areas. Throughout this seven-week program, students become immersed and engaged through summer readings, group discussions, and volunteering. Clinical observation sites will be located in Woodford County, Kentucky (home of FNU), the surrounding area or in healthcare shortage areas.
This year’s Courier Program Public Health Internship has two key components. Each intern will be asked to:
- Learn academically about the importance of rural and public healthcare by participating in online modules advised by the Courier Program Director.
- Observe at local clinic host sites and take what they are learning academically and apply it to real life situations in the community.
“One thing I’ve loved about this experience is that it showed me the true motivation behind my wanting to become a nurse,” said Echi Onyemaobi, 2023 Courier. “The program reinforced my decision to pursue nursing as a career.”
During their time on-site, Couriers will shadow a variety of clinicians and provide leadership on special projects, as well as other avenues of community participation. Courier’s experiences help them to fully comprehend the complexities of rural and underserved communities and healthcare, as well as grasp the compassionate and caring legacy carried on by FNU students, alumni, Couriers, staff and faculty.
Another former Courier, Bryanna Scherer, said, “the people I met, my experiences, and the things that I learned were invaluable.”
The Courier Program has a “Hearts On, Hands Off” approach to learning. Couriers learn by observing their clinic site mentors, speaking with patients, and assisting with special projects, such as working at health booths, creating brochures on health-related topics, leading events, and other meaningful activities. Couriers may participate in any activity that does not require formal medical or healthcare training. Couriers leave with a profound understanding and deep respect for the communities they serve during their time as a Courier.
More than 1,800 Couriers have served since the program was started in 1928. Today’s FNU Courier Program Public Health Internship is a summer service-learning experience distinguished by its legacy and the adventuresome nature of its site placements. Students carry forth the Frontier mission by providing critical assistance to healthcare organizations in underserved and rural communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When and where does the Courier Program take place?
A: The seven-week program takes place June 10-August 2, 2024, beginning with the online learning component. Students will then report to campus in early July. Couriers will have service-learning opportunities at clinics and healthcare sites around Woodford County, Ky.
Q: What is the deadline to apply for the Courier Program?
A: Applications must be submitted by Friday, April 12, at 5:00 p.m. ET. Applicants must submit a copy of their unofficial transcript and proof of holding a valid driver’s license at the time of application, in addition to the formal application.
Q: What does it take to become a Courier?
A: Couriers must be between the ages of 19 and 25 during the program and currently enrolled in an undergraduate program. Couriers should have an interest in public health, healthcare, social work, and related fields. Formal training or educational background in healthcare is not necessary or required!
Q: I have more questions. Who should I contact?
A: If you have additional questions, please contact Lisa Colletti-Jones, Courier Program Director, at courier.program@frontier.edu.
Interested in learning more? Visit the Courier Program Public Health Internship page on our website.
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