This summer, I had the opportunity to intern with the Family Health Bureau at the DC
Department of Health, which was a transformative experience that allowed me to apply what
I’ve learned at the Milken Institute School of Public Health in real-world, community-focused
settings.
Throughout my internship, I worked on several projects that deepened my understanding of
maternal and child health policy and practice. I helped draft interagency policy
recommendations between DC’s Title V agency and Medicaid by reviewing and synthesizing
memoranda of understanding (MOUs) from multiple states. I also created a comprehensive
orientation binder for the Perinatal and Infant Health Division, which included program
overviews, organizational structures, and Title V programs, which will be utilized to support
new staff and strengthen cross-sector collaboration.
One of the most rewarding projects was contributing to the 2025 Title V State Application and
Annual Report. I drafted the overview section, integrating a detailed literature and evidence
review, complete with citations, for an audience of external stakeholders. I also supported the
newborn services team by reviewing screening follow-up records and preparing medical
communications for families, promoting early intervention and care continuity.
What made this experience truly special was seeing the direct impact of our work on the
community. In the classroom, we often focus on theories and data, but this internship showed
me how those principles translate into policies and programs that improve lives. It was a
powerful reminder of why I chose to study public health and how important this work truly is.