75 студентов получили оплачиваемую стажировку в сельских районах Северной Каролины

This summer, 75 Golden LEAF Scholars participated in the Golden LEAF Rural Internship Initiative. The initiative is designed to provide students with hands-on, relevant work experience in rural North Carolina communities. The Golden LEAF Rural Internship gives eligible Golden LEAF Scholars the opportunity to gain meaningful experience in roles at internship sites aligned with their career goals. Interns work up to 400 hours over the course of 8 to 12 weeks between May and August, earning $16 per hour during their first year of participation, $17 during their second, and $18 during their third. This summer, the 75 Golden LEAF Rural Internship Initiative participants worked in 39 rural counties at 72 sites across North Carolina. Three scholars — Maddie Grant, Kaileb Harrison, and Charity Jarman — shared how their internships are shaping their career paths and strengthening their connections to rural North Carolina. Maddie Grant, a native of Halifax County, is majoring in public health and communications at East Carolina University. Working as a dental hygiene assistant intern at Arthur and Nicholson, DDS, is providing Grant with early exposure to the profession before applying to dental school. “My goals after graduation are to attend dental school and eventually own a dental practice similar to the one where I am currently an intern,” said Grant. The community’s close-knit ties have allowed Grant to build a network of dental professionals. “Rural areas often have the strength of community,” said Grant. “So, in meeting and getting to know these dentists in my hometown with different experiences, they have introduced me to other dentists in the area, colleagues that they knew from school, and other people within our community that have a stake in their professional and business interests.” According to Grant, the best part of the internship is building authentic connections with people. “My favorite parts of this internship are patient interaction and building both professional and personal relationships with my coworkers,” said Grant. “So, simply put, my favorite part is networking and human connection. For anyone who wants to work in the medical field, this should be one of your favorite parts! I love getting to make an impact on people’s lives, even if it’s just giving them some small piece of dental advice that they may never forget!” Charity Jarman, a native of Jones County, is majoring in social work at East Carolina University. Through her internship with the Guardian ad Litem program in Nash County, Jarman is gaining experience that supports her goal of attending graduate school for social work and advocating for children in the court system. “During my time as a Guardian ad Litem intern, I have learned the importance of advocating for the best interests of children while working collaboratively with families, social workers, attorneys, and other professionals,” said Jarman. “This experience has strengthened my communication, documentation, and critical thinking skills while giving me a deeper understanding of the child welfare and court systems.” Through her Guardian ad Litem internship, Jarman is gaining valuable experience both in and out of court. “My favorite part of this internship has been attending court hearings and learning how the many professionals involved work together to create safe, stable environments for children,” said Jarman. In addition to experience, Jarman is gaining knowledge of resources available to children and families. “I have learned about many valuable resources available throughout North Carolina,” said Jarman. “Learning about these resources has given me a better understanding of the different levels of care and support available to children and families in the child welfare system.” Kaileb Harrison, a native of Halifax County, is majoring in journalism and mass communication at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. As an intern at The Roanoke Rapids Daily Herald, he is building his career in journalism and media while continuing to develop his storytelling skills. “My favorite part of this internship is getting to meet new people and tell stories that matter to the community,” said Harrison. “After graduation, I want to report on stories that have a meaningful impact on communities, whether through print, digital media, or broadcast. I also hope to continue growing as a writer, producer, and multimedia journalist while creating work that informs and inspires others.” Interning at The Roanoke Rapids Daily Herald has allowed Harrison to build a professional network across a wide variety of industries. “This internship has allowed me to connect with local government officials, nonprofit leaders, business professionals, educators, community members, and other journalists throughout the region,” said Harrison. “Every interview has helped me become more confident in building professional relationships and has introduced me to people who are making a positive impact in rural North Carolina.” By reporting on rural areas, Harrison has seen the strengths of his community firsthand and hopes his storytelling will lead to positive change across North Carolina. “This internship has shown me that rural communities have incredible strengths and benefits that are often overlooked,” said Harrison. “I have seen firsthand how local businesses, schools, churches, and community leaders work together to support one another and improve the quality of life for the community. I have also learned that there are many opportunities for growth and innovation in rural areas and that sharing these stories helps bring attention to the positive work happening across our communities.” By participating in the Golden LEAF Rural Internship Initiative, scholars like Grant, Jarman and Harrison are gaining the knowledge and experience needed to succeed in their careers while strengthening their connections to rural North Carolina and preparing to make a meaningful impact in their communities.