Internship Experience as an International Student

Finding an internship as an international high school student without permanent residency can be very challenging. Many programs require applicants to be U.S. citizens or permanent residents because of federal funding rules, liability concerns, and employment regulations. Applications often ask for a Social Security number or proof of work authorization, which many international students do not have. Paid positions can be even more complicated because of tax requirements for non-resident workers.

However, my school understands these challenges and provides valuable support. Mrs.Pyle, our dorm director, and the school work for the international students to help them find opportunities that match their interests. Thanks to their efforts, international students can explore future careers in a safe and meaningful way. One of my friends who wants to major in developmental psychology is currently working at an elementary school, and another who is interested in business will work at a bank next month.

I am currently interning at Medford Animal Hospital, where I get to observe real surgeries almost every day. I have gone into exam rooms with doctors and watched vet technicians preparing for operations, sedating dogs and cats, giving them injections, or taking x rays. The most memorable moment was watching a dog’s foreign body surgery and seeing its entire digestive tract, which helped me appreciate how everything is connected. I also gave a subcutaneous injection to a dog, which is an opportunity almost no high school student gets.

One day, a dog with a severe tail injury came in. The doctors decided that amputation was necessary, but the owner hesitated because of financial reasons. Eventually, the dog was treated and rehomed. That moment made me want to become a surgeon even more, so I can help patients who might otherwise go untreated. Opportunities like these are rare, and as international students at this school, we are truly given the chance to experience something extraordinary and to chase our dreams and goals.

Written by. Gayoung "Clara" Shin