By Ellie Santonato

Are you driven by the desire to make a positive impact in people’s lives? An internship in Human Services offers you the chance to turn this passion into practical experience, while also making a meaningful contribution to your community. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the diverse internship opportunities within the human services field, featuring insights from students who have completed transformative internships. We’ll also provide you with invaluable tips on how to maximize these experiences for your personal and professional growth.

What is Human Services?

Let’s begin by understanding the profound impact of the Human Services industry. Human Services is a broad field of professions and academic disciplines that are dedicated to meeting human needs and enhancing the overall quality of life for individuals, families, and communities. This field plays a crucial role in our society, encompassing various activities and services that strive to improve human welfare, promote social justice, and tackle pressing societal challenges.

Some common majors where students work in Human Services are Anthropology, Geography, Psychology, Public Health, Sociology, Social Work*, and Counseling*. 

*Graduate Program

Exploring Human Services Internship Opportunities

Human Services encompass a broad range of professions dedicated to improving the well-being of individuals and communities. Internship opportunities in this field can vary widely but often involve direct interaction with clients, program development, advocacy work, or research initiatives. Here are a few common areas where you can find Human Services jobs and  internships:

Social Services Agencies: Internships in social services can involve case management, client advocacy, and resource coordination for vulnerable populations such as children, families, or individuals experiencing homelessness.

Nonprofit Organizations: Many nonprofits focus on specific human services areas such as mental health, disability services, domestic violence prevention, or substance abuse rehabilitation. Interns may assist with program delivery, fundraising efforts, or community outreach.

Government Agencies: Local, state, or federal government agencies often offer internships in areas like public health, community development, or social policy analysis.

• If you are interested in a list of employers who have hired DePaul Students for internships and jobs, you can check out the Political Science resource page. 

Healthcare Settings: Internships in hospitals, clinics, or community health centers provide exposure to patient care, health education, and public health initiatives.

Sample Organizations: 

• Illinois Department of Human Services
• Mercy Housing
• Chicago Lights
• Esperanza Community Services
• UCAN (Chicago)
• Best Buddies in Illinois
• Nourishing Hope
• Sarah’s Inn
• Family Rescue
• Life Span
• Metropolitan Family Services

Tips for Securing and Maximizing Internship Experiences

Securing a meaningful internship in human services requires proactive steps and preparation. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your internship experience:

1. Research: Explore organizations that align with your interests and values. Try creating a Target Employer List. Reach out to potential supervisors or alumni for advice and insights. 

2. Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant coursework, skills, and experiences that demonstrate your commitment to human services.

3. Network: Attend career fairs, workshops, and information sessions to expand your network. Personal connections can often lead to internship opportunities. Find Alumni via LinkedIn and reach to connect with an Informational Interview request. 

4. Be Proactive: During your internship, take initiative by seeking out learning opportunities, asking questions, and offering to assist with projects beyond your assigned tasks. Learn how to make the most of your internship experience and more from the Career Library. 

5. Reflect and Learn: Keep a journal or notes to reflect on your experiences, challenges, and successes. Use these insights to guide your career aspirations and professional development.

Conclusion

Internships in human services offer a unique learning experience, providing invaluable hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of societal challenges. Whether you’re considering a career in social work, public health, counseling, or nonprofit management, an internship in human services can be a pivotal step toward realizing your professional goals, offering you a chance to learn and grow in a dynamic and impactful environment.

Don’t miss out on the chance to embark on a rewarding journey through an internship in human services. Remember, the impact you make during your internship can extend far beyond its duration, shaping your future career and leaving a lasting imprint on the lives of those you serve.

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Not sure what the future holds? Need support along the way? That’s exactly where we come in. Whether you’re a freshman or an alumnus, it’s never too early (or too late) to utilize our services.

Book an appointment with Ellie, or another member of the advising community through Handshake, or by calling the front desk at (773) 325-7431.