Each semester, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Salt Lake City welcomes a new cohort of interns from local universities and colleges. All interns at the IRC engage in incredible experiences working with diverse populations and coworkers, gaining invaluable professional development experience, and developing strategies to overcome language and cultural barriers. Internships at the IRC offer hands-on learning, from understanding how refugee resettlement works to gaining insight into the programming and services offered to support a family as they rebuild their lives in a new home.  

Aubrey Lowe, a health promotion intern, said, “A highlight of my internship has been realizing that we have so much more in common with our clients than we do differences.”  

Over the summer, the IRC in Salt Lake City has worked with 26 interns across all departments to increase capacity of services and deepen support of resettled families. Student interns participate in educational and professional development opportunities and even have the chance to fulfill university requirements and gain needed credits toward graduation. From resource development to case management and immigration legal services, interns contribute greatly to the work that is done to support refugees. 

Elliot Meyer, a casework intern said, “I have been working with clients to help them find employment. A highlight has been helping clients move into a permanent place of residence so that they have a place to call home.”  

The IRC also works to engage specialty programs to fulfill practicum requirements, including a long-standing Occupational Therapy (OT) initiative completed in collaboration with Yda Smith, a licensed occupational therapist. This summer, four OT practicum students joined the team, working to help individuals and families overcome uniquely personal obstacles while supporting broader groups, including through a weekly employment readiness class.  

Through the employment class, newly arrived refugees learn valuable skills to prepare them for U.S. workplaces in addition to building confidence in the application and interviewing processes. OT practicum students work to build individualized resources to simplify processes resulting in a number of “how to” guides for new arrivals: building a resume, preparing for an interview, interview etiquette, and communicating effectively with your boss & colleagues. Volunteers supporting the class utilize resources to provide one-on-one support during each class.  

From joining the team as an intern or offering support as a community volunteer, the IRC in Salt Lake City is deeply grateful for all who contribute their time and energy in support of our work and the families we serve. Thank you! 

Learn more about our current volunteer opportunities and upcoming Fall 2024 Internships.