Happy National School Psychology Week! I just want to say thank you to all the school psychs for all your dedication to the schools and to the field! This year has been quite a “changing” year, going from a full-time graduate student to a full-time intern. I began my internship journey in August and am continuing to adjust to this new role. Continue to read to see how my internship experience has been going so far!
Expectations and Role as an Intern
Within this school psychology internship, I will be working with a supervisor while I take over an elementary school on my own. Let me say that again… I’m taking over an elementary school on my own!!! It’s been very interesting so far. I have been getting acclimated to the school environment and settling into the role. I get to be at my school for most of the week and then go over to my supervisor’s school once a week. However, I’m in constant contact with my supervisor to get some help with cases, consultations, etc. I’ve been sitting in on a bunch of meetings and getting to be in the action. Once we get into the middle of the school year, I’ll be working at the middle and high school levels.
Things I’ve Learned So Far as an Intern
Within this role as an intern, I feel like I learned so much, from the day to day, as well as the actual job. Here are a few tips and tricks to help me in my role and day to day:
- In the beginning of the school year/when it is not as busy, take some time to go into the classrooms. Do observations. Put yourself out there. Let the teachers and staff know you are there to help.
- Ask lots of questions. I’ve definitely played the “I’m just an intern” card and asked lots of questions to help me understand what is going on in the school and how the education system works.
- Being an intern is a very unique role. You are able to have a more active role (vs. a passive role) while still having a lot of supervision.
On another note, take a look at this blog post for some more advice for students in grad school (you’re doing a great job, grad student!).
Links
Here are some links to my favorite school/office supplies and other necessities as an intern:
- Kate Spade New York Clipboard Folio with Low Profile Clip, Professional Padfolio
- Pentel EnerGel RTX Retractable Liquid Gel Pen 0.5mm Fine Line Needle Tip Black Ink
- Weekly and Monthly Planner
- Pen + Gear Folder
- 40 oz Tumbler with Handle and Flip Straw
- “Bullyanna” book (written by one of the school counselors!!!)
- “Diversity is You and Me” book (written by one of the school counselors!!!)
Happy National School Psychology Week! Make sure to thank and show your appreciation to a school psychologist!
*Hey! Just wanted to let you know that this post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links, I will earn a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!*
