Starting your first healthcare externship is a huge milestone in your journey towards a rewarding career in the medical field. Whether you're studying to become a nurse, doctor, medical assistant, or another healthcare professional, an externship offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience, develop your skills, and make valuable connections. To help you prepare and make the most of this experience, here are some essential tips.
Before starting your externship, familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and expectations of the program. This includes understanding the duration, the location, the hours you'll need to commit, and the specific tasks or roles you will be undertaking. Knowing what to expect will help you mentally and physically prepare for the experience.
Review the key concepts and skills relevant to your field of study. This may include revisiting textbooks, notes, and any previous coursework that pertains to the tasks you'll be performing during your externship. Being well-prepared will boost your confidence and enable you to make a positive impression on your supervisors.
Ensure you have all required documentation ready before your start date. This could include identification, immunization records, background checks, and any specific forms required by the externship site. Having these documents organized and readily available will streamline your onboarding process.
Check if there is a specific dress code or uniform requirement for your externship. If so, make sure you have the appropriate attire, including comfortable shoes, as you may be on your feet for extended periods. Additionally, gather any necessary supplies such as a stethoscope, notepad, watch, and pen.
If possible, visit the externship site beforehand to familiarize yourself with the layout, parking, and general environment. Knowing where to go on your first day can alleviate some of the initial stress and help you feel more comfortable and confident.
Before starting your externship, take some time to set specific, achievable goals for what you hope to learn and accomplish. These goals could include mastering certain procedures, improving your patient communication skills, or gaining a deeper understanding of a particular aspect of healthcare. Having clear objectives will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the externship.
Approach your externship with a positive and open mindset. Be ready to learn from every experience, even if it involves challenging or unexpected situations. Demonstrating enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and a proactive attitude will leave a lasting impression on your supervisors and colleagues.
Effective communication is crucial in healthcare. Practice active listening, be clear and concise in your verbal and written communications, and don't hesitate to ask questions if you're unsure about something. Building good relationships with your supervisors, peers, and patients is key to a successful externship.
Throughout your externship, regularly seek feedback from your supervisors and peers. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and enhance your skills. Additionally, take time to reflect on your experiences, what you've learned, and how you can apply these lessons in your future career.
Lastly, remember to take care of your physical and mental well-being. Healthcare can be demanding, and it's important to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Get enough rest, eat nutritious meals, and find time to relax and recharge outside of your externship hours.
Your first healthcare externship is a stepping stone towards a fulfilling career in the medical field. By preparing thoroughly and approaching the experience with enthusiasm and professionalism, you can make the most of this valuable opportunity.
The main reason I would recommend Ross College is the atmosphere! All the staff members are caring and helpful! The instructors are knowledgeable in the fields they are teaching. As a result, students are passing and wanting to come to class!
Tonya Shaffer Graduate Medical Assistant student at North Canton, OH campus Graduation: April 24, 2019
I am very happy that I took the leap of faith in enrolling into the VA program. I have learned so much and my instructor is amazing. I could not have done it without my team of classmates and teacher.
Courtney Griffin Graduate Veterinary Assistant student at Canton, MI campus Graduation: May 8, 2019
My name is Robin. I started at Ross in September 2018. Enrolling for a medical assistant has been very challenging but so very rewarding. It's been the best academic experience of my life. I could not have picked a better school for myself and my needs. The staff has been amazing!
Robin Whalen Graduate Medical Assistant student at Flint, MI campus Graduation: April 24, 2019
I really would recommend others to come to Ross. It's a great program for people trying to take the next steps.
Arieyanna Santiago Graduate Medical Assistant student at Ann Arbor, MI campus Graduation: April 5, 2019
I have never been good at school, so thinking about taking classes again made me very anxious and unsure if this was what I even really wanted. I feel confident that I made the right decision. The instructors really care about you and your academic goals. They do everything they can to help guide you through your Medical Assistant journey. Without their support, I would have really struggled to want to stick with the program. So, a huge THANK YOU to Ebony Whitney for your unconditional support and all the extra time you spent helping me!
Gena Hicks Graduate Dental Assistant student at Fort Wayne, IN campus Graduation: March 27, 2019
