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Several Edinboro undergraduate psychology interns – under the direction of Dr. Heather T. Snyder – have collectively completed 4,500 hours of community service during their spring 2024 internship.
The Department of Psychology, Counseling and Art Therapy at PennWest Edinboro recently announced that Jenna Bowman, Gabriel Clifford, Stephen Dimitriadis, Grace Gernovich, Jessica Hardin, Matt Hawbaker, Brooke Lovell, Leia Ross and Alicia Schackner have completed 12-credit internships at schools and institutions throughout Erie County, Pennsylvania.
Undergraduate internships in psychology are typically undertaken by students following their junior year. Internships provide students with an opportunity to obtain professional work experience in a variety of settings in the field of psychology.
Jenna Bowman completed her internship at Gaudenzia Community House for Women and Children. Bowman plans to finish her undergraduate degree in psychology with a minor in biology at PennWest Edinboro, and then use her internship experience to pursue a master’s degree in counseling or social work.
“My internship has allowed me to enter the real world to learn and apply valuable skills that will help in my future career,” she said. “I appreciate the ability to have had this experience.”
Gabriel Clifford completed his internship at Diehl Elementary School and Erie High School – part of Erie’s Public Schools. After graduation, Clifford will look for a job in the field to gain more experience and pursue a career as a school psychologist.
“The internship experience was one of the greatest opportunities I have had in my academic career,” he said. “I would encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity.”
Stephen Dimitriadis completed his internship at Pyramid Healthcare in the Erie outpatient office. He has been accepted into the graduate program at IUP for clinical mental health counseling.
“With my internship opportunity, I have been able to enhance my counseling skills as well as learn how to best service clients suffering from addiction,” he said.
Grace Gernovich completed her internship at the Sarah Reed Children’s Center’s Hamilton campus. She is planning to return to PennWest University to obtain a master’s in clinical mental health counseling.
“The guidance I received from my internship has been a wonderful experience, and I am certain that I will continue to benefit from their teachings throughout my career,” she said.
Jessica Hardin completed her internship at the Brighter Horizons residential treatment facility, part of Perseus House. She will continue her studies at PennWest to obtain a master’s degree.
“Interning has shown me that true growth only happens outside of your comfort zone,” she said. “Take a chance on yourself and you will be surprised at what all you can accomplish.”
Frank Hawbaker completed his internship at the Sarah Reed Children’s Center’s Selden/Hagen Cottage. He will complete his degree next academic year and eventually pursue a master’s degree.
“This internship helped me figure out so many unanswered questions about my future career path,” he said.
Brooke Lovell completed her internship at General McLane School District. She plans to finish her bachelor’s degree in psychology and pursue a master’s degree in counseling.
“Interning has solidified my passion for working with students of all ages and backgrounds,” she said. “It has provided me with hands on experience in the various aspects and challenges of this field.”
Leia Ross completed her internship at Perry Elementary School – part of Erie’s Public Schools. She expects to graduate this May with an undergraduate degree in psychology. Next year, she plans to further her education in school psychology while serving as the graduate assistant for Edinboro’s swim team.
“Interning has shown me that true growth only happens outside of your comfort zone,” she said. “Take a chance on yourself, and you will be surprised at what all you can accomplish.”
Alicia Schackner completed her internship at Associates in Counseling & Child Guidance. She plans to continue her education to pursue a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling to work with children and adolescents.
“I am so grateful to have gotten the opportunity to do an internship with Associates in Counseling & Child Guidance,” she said. “It has been a wonderful learning experience and has reinforced my passion for the field.”
