During the summer months, many students find time to explore their interests, from traveling and resting to summer classes and internships. For Shyam Ganesh Babu, this summer brought him the chance to get ahead on his career goals.

Ganesh Babu spent the summer interning at the USC School of Medicine Greenville with Prisma Health’s MedEx program, which helps make future jobs in healthcare more accessible to students through its summer academy.

For a biological sciences major with sights set on a career as a physician, the internship was the perfect match to get hands-on experience in the healthcare field.

In this Q&A, Ganesh Babu reflects on what made his summer internship worthwhile.

Q: Tell us about your internship. What did a typical day look like for you?

My specific role involved participating in daily activities such as shadowing healthcare professionals, engaging in clinical experiences, attending workshops with medical students and partaking in healthcare education and mentoring sessions. These activities developed my understanding of the medical profession and improved my practical skills. I received guidance and advice from experienced medical professionals on my career path and professional development.

Q: How does this experience align with your major and your career goals?

The MedEx program is specifically designed for students pursuing careers in healthcare, providing practical experiences and educational opportunities that are directly relevant to my studies and future aspirations. Through this internship, I gained firsthand experience in a clinical setting, which is invaluable for my medical school application and my overall understanding of the medical field.

Q: In what ways has this internship helped you?

The MedEx program has provided me with an incredibly diverse and caring network of cherished friends and supporters. This experience has given me an understanding of both the best and worst aspects of our healthcare system, as well as the varied experiences of patients. It has been an incredibly touching journey, teaching me to prioritize empathy and compassion as essential qualities in healthcare. I have also learned the importance of practicing and promoting healthy choices.

Q: How did you hear about this opportunity?

I heard about the internship through my peers at the Honors College and through student organizations such as the medical fraternity Phi Delta Epsilon and the Alpha Epsilon Delta honor society. Additionally, MedEx ambassadors promote the internship, and I recall seeing it advertised on USC’s healthcare listserv.

Q: Would you recommend other students do this internship?

I would highly recommend this internship to other students, especially those pursuing careers in medicine. The program is well-structured and offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers various aspects of medical education and professional development. The clinical reflections and workshops have been particularly beneficial, providing practical insights and hands-on experience that complement my academic studies. The program's focus on mentorship and education makes it an excellent preparation for medical school and a career in healthcare.