Rykiel Morales was very nervous about his first day as an intern at Verdugo Hills Hospital (VHH). The 19-year-old nursing student at Glendale Community College was unsure about what to expect from his internship.

“I was pretty worried on my first day,” said Morales. “It turned out to be a great experience though and everyone was so inviting.”

Morales is one of three students who recently completed VHH’s 60-hour nursing internship program. The internship gives students the opportunity to shadow nurses and experience the daily tasks that they perform.

“It gives students an opportunity to make an informed decision on a career as a registered nurse [RN],” said Andrea Terry, VHH’s Director of Education and Staff Development.

Interns are also able to shadow RNs as they work in various clinical areas throughout the hospital. This proved to be most helpful to student intern Diana Sanchez.

“I was able to learn everything step-by-step,” said Sanchez, who is also a nursing student at Glendale Community College. “It really confirmed for me that this is what I want to do for a living.”

Working in different clinical areas was very beneficial for Morales, who found his passion while shadowing a nurse in the Emergency Room.

“I grew very fond of the Emergency Room and Intensive Care (Unit) and would probably want to work there,” Morales said. “You get to know your patients more and I like that.”

Upon completing the program, interns are given a certificate of completion of a nurse internship and a better understanding of the nursing profession. The program is also beneficial to the hospital staff, who enjoy nurturing the next generation of healthcare providers.

“We are pleased to engage and educate the youth in our community,” said Terry.

For more information about VHH’s nursing internship opportunities, call the VHH Education Department at (818) 952-3593.

  interns, VHH