From Shadowing to Doing – My First Hands On Healthcare Internship

I completed a five-week internship as a Premed Intern at SGMA (Specialized Gastroenterology and Medical Associates) in Houston and it changed the way I think about healthcare.

Until now, most of my experiences had been observational. I’d shadowed OB/GYN doctors, learning by watching. But at SGMA, I finally stepped into a more hands-on role. I helped welcome patients, assisted with check-ins, and recorded their weights; small responsibilities that made me feel part of the team.

I didn’t realize how much goes into each patient’s visit beyond diagnosis. Communicating clearly, staying organized, helping patients feel seen. these are things you can’t learn just by observing. Being trusted with those tasks made me more aware of how every role in a clinic contributes to patient care.

This internship wasn’t just another line on my resume, it helped me grow. I became more confident, more focused, and more sure of the kind of work I want to do. Whether I go into psychology, primary care, or public health, I’ll carry this experience with me.

I’m thankful to SGMA for giving me a chance to participate, not just observe, and for showing me how powerful those “small” moments can be in someone’s care journey.

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