Trevor Shalon

Social Science/History

"What did I do summer of 2009. Well, simply put I saved democracy in the middle of Montana. With Project Vote Smart, a non-profit organization that supplies unbiased political information, I was able to gain invaluable life and credentials as a worker. My internship sent me on the wildest adventures I have ever been on and the ten weeks I was in Montana just seemed to fly. These moments and the people I met made this all the truer. Without the CATS Center and their help structuring my resume and cover letter, I would have never been able to have this opportunity. When what would have been a summer of stocking shelves at Menards turned into a summer of tranquility."

Name: Savannah Kok

Major: Psychology

Minor: Business Administration

Internship: Oosterport (Foster care agency)

Location: The Netherlands

Position: Foster Care Provider

Statement: Completing my internship abroad not only allowed me to learn about the foster care system in The Netherlands, but also allowed me to experience a new culture, language, and life in another country. My main job duty was to take care of two disabled children, ages 1 and 2, however, I was also expected to take them to their parent visits, practice discipline techniques, and engage in a loving relationship with them. I saw firsthand how emotional abuse can impact the life of a child with the effects of attachment disorders, poor physical health, and lack of social skills. This unique internship has given me the experience of a lifetime.

Name: Dan Swartzendruber

Major: Business Administration - Computer Management Information Systems

Internship location: Action Technology, Auburn, NE

Position: Network Techician

Statement: I really like working for Action Tech because there is always something new to learn, and I'm constantly being challenged. My job involves a lot of problem solving. It often involves alot of trial and error, but working through those challenges are very rewarding.

Joni LeRetter-Flores

Psychology Major

Internship Location: Council Bluffs, IA

Position: Mental Health professional assistant

Statement: My internship experience has been a bit nontraditional, but then so has my journey to complete my bachelor's degree.  I am grateful that Peru State offers both the chance to pursue education online and the staff's flexibility in designing an internship based on my interests, career goals and course of study. A psychology major, my internship experience consisted of working alongside a mental health care professional who is embarking on opening a practice.  In this regard, we joined forces to design printed materials which will be used to conduct women's workshops focused on emotional healing.  Having recognized the common thread which oftentimes runs through the fabric of a woman's being, the workshops, workbook and accompanying journal, are a source for identifying faulty beliefs and patterns of thinking, replacing them with the Truth of God's Word and the accompanying cognitive-behavioral theories to encourage change. It has been a worthwhile experience; one that has encouraged me along the path, both educationally and personally.