The Intern Journal: Special Olympics New York

Kamryn Kershaw '25 works part-time as a patient care associate at Albany Medical Center. Recently, her staff cared for a non speaking pediatric patient with autism.

"The patient would have outbursts, and we struggled to understand her needs. Was she in pain? I wanted to figure out how I could better serve this patient in the moment, but I didn't know much about people with intellectual disabilities."

Weeks later, she seized on an opportunity. Health Science students were made aware of an internship opportunity with Special Olympics New York.

Special Olympics New York hosted its 2024 Fall Games in late October in Glens Falls. In preparation, Kershaw, as a member of the health and wellness team, organized wellness booths at the various venues.

"We have physicians to volunteer their time to offer free health screenings for the athletes. We want to educate the athletes and we want them to be the healthiest versions of themselves."

Kershaw says she's learning a lot about people with intellectual disabilities, which is why she pursued the internship.

"There's a gap in health care service that does an injustice to those with intellectual disabilities. I want to be able to educate myself so that I can educate others. I'd like to pursue a master's in public health, and work with community members who are underserved. This experience has helped point me in that direction."

"I didn't think I would get it. I'm a shy person, and I often don't put myself out there. But this was important, so I took a shot."

Kershaw's resume earned her an interview, and after acing the Zoom, she began her internship last month.