PHC Alum: Kelsey's Story

Posted on: February 12, 2014Pittsburgh

What are you up to now?

I'm a second year medical student at The Ohio University College of Medicine.

Did your AmeriCorps experience have any influence on what you are doing today?

It gave me a lot of experience working in a health care center in an underserved area. I was able to see a lot of the challenges and joys of working in healthcare. I believe this position also helped me secure a summer internship at another healthcare center in an underserved area, and peaked my interest in policy and administration.

What was your most memorable AmeriCorps moment?

Any time spent with the other members :) especially training days

What advice would you give current members as they plan for their "life after AmeriCorps"?

  • Include everything on your CV/Resume'! Get some help making your AmeriCorps experience shine. You have a lot of the on-the-job experience that most people don't have. 
  • Don't lose touch with your mentor/boss at your position, and if necessary ask them for letters of recommendation.
  • If going to grad school, see if they will match your AmeriCorps award (school specific), or if they waive application fees for AmeriCorps members (MPH).
  • Negotiate your first salary!! Dont just accept the first offer because you are so happy to have gotten a job!