What started as a simple job shadowing experience became a defining internship for Megan Reidler, a senior at Slippery Rock University (SRU). This summer, she interned at Lehigh Valley Health Network-Schuylkill in Pottsville, blending hands-on clinical work with essential administrative tasks.
Reidler, who aims to enter physical therapy, first shadowed staff at the Stine Rehabilitation Unit. This shadowing is crucial for SRU’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Impressed by the hospital’s operations, she asked her supervisor if she could come back as an intern.
Following finals, she received an internship offer that lasted until June 6. During this time, she gained valuable insights into patient care, assisting with physical therapy and handling administrative duties like data collection.
“After my internship, I could really picture myself in a hospital, similar to the rehab director—someone who mixes clinical skills with leadership,” Reidler shared. “Watching patients transition from the hospital to becoming residents was eye-opening for me.”
Working in a smaller rehabilitation unit helped her pinpoint her interests. With fewer patients, she closely observed how therapists, nurses, and administrators worked together. This experience solidified her dreams of combining health care management and physical therapy.
After the internship, Reidler transitioned into an activities assistant role at the Schuylkill Center. Now, she monitors residents and tracks their participation.
Reidler chose SRU for its clear pathway from undergraduate studies to the Doctor of Physical Therapy program. She highlighted how the health care administration and management (HCAM) program prepared her for real-life scenarios.
“The HCAM Department is incredibly supportive,” she said. “They really want us to succeed beyond just academics. What I learned from Dr. Natalie Dick’s class was directly applicable in the field, and many were surprised by how much I already knew.”
More information on HCAM programs can be found here. Details about the Doctor of Physical Therapy program are available here.
This experience reflects a larger trend in education, where hands-on learning is becoming vital for students in health care fields. A 2023 survey indicated that 87% of students believe internships are necessary for their career success, showing how essential practical experience is for future professionals. Megan’s journey is a testament to the power of internship experiences in shaping careers in health care.
