Pathways to Success

Garden Spot High School

Melanie Esh – Medical Internship

My name is Melanie, and I am a senior at Garden Spot High School. This fall, I have the opportunity to intern at Friendship Community, which is group housing for adults with special needs. My position is a direct support professional (DSP); however, I am still in training for it. Some of the job roles include providing care, participating in activities, preparing meals, and cleaning for the residents. I turned 18 in September, so I can be more hands-on.

My time at Friendship Community had a slow start due to all the requirements prior to starting, but I am almost finished with my training. Friendship Community takes great pride in making sure its employees are properly trained. Alongside with watching videos, Friendship Community has mandatory CPR and First Aid training, Positive and Safe Approaches training, and medical training for DSPs. In addition, I must take a driving test to ensure my ability to safely transport the individuals.

My experience at the house has shown some hard-working caregivers. They fully give themselves to their jobs and support the residents with all their hearts. Some days the residents work double shifts that last 16 hours long. Like most businesses, Friendship Community is understaffed and is only able to have one DSP at a time rather than two or three. I am looking forward to helping out with the home.

Overall, this opportunity has been an incredible journey. This experience has taught me that when you work in the medical field, you must put others above yourself. I have learned so much about caring for other people and supporting them in creative ways. In addition, this will allow me to learn more about medications, which will help me in my medical field journey. I am so excited to learn more and work with the residents through the rest of the semester.

medicalnursing

jhackman • November 14, 2022


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