Internship Spotlight: Q&A with HIV Intern Amber Devine

Q&A with Amber Devine, HIV Prevention Intern/Clerical Specialist, Bureau of Communicable Disease Prevention and Control

Internship Dates: January – April 2025 

Top Takeaway: “Interning with DPH affirmed my passion for community health and strengthened my desire to pursue a career that addresses health disparities and promotes preventive care.” 

What did you learn during your internship?
During my internship, I gained valuable knowledge about sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including current prevention strategies and public health approaches to reduce transmission. I also learned the importance of addressing and reducing the stigma surrounding STIs, especially in underserved communities. This experience helped strengthen my communication skills and deepened my understanding of sexual health education from a public health perspective.

What was the most valuable part of the experience?
One of the most valuable aspects of the internship was the opportunity to engage in community-based outreach and education efforts. Being able to observe and support real-world strategies for STI prevention allowed me to connect classroom knowledge to practical application. I also appreciated learning how public health professionals work to build trust in communities and promote open conversations about sexual health, which is essential for reducing stigma and increasing access to care.

How has this internship influenced your career goals?
Interning with DPH had a significant impact on my career and professional development. It affirmed my passion for community health and strengthened my desire to pursue a career that addresses health disparities and promotes preventive care. I gained a clearer understanding of how public health initiatives operate at the state level and how collaboration, data, and outreach play vital roles in program success. This experience also improved my professionalism, communication and confidence in working within the public health system.