During the winter semester of 2024 I interned with the Rexburg Free Clinic (RFC), a local non-profit organization with a mission of providing free healthcare to community members in need. This opportunity was humbling – enriching, and deepened my appreciation for non-profit work . Driven by desire to contribute more, I undertook a project aimed at improving the onboarding and orientation process for new interns at the RFC.
Seeing a Need
Reflecting on my time at the clinic, I noticed many of the documents required for onboarding new interns were scattered and unorganized. Seeing that there was potential for improvement, I met with the Director of Volunteers for the RFC to pitch my project. After discussing goals and desired outcomes the project began.
Project Objectives
Creating a Comprehensive Onboarding Document
First, with permission from the Director of Volunteers, I reviewed multiple documents on the RFC’s drive seeking out necessary onboarding information that could be added to a single document. I also researched additional useful and relevant information to include. Once all information was gathered, I organized it, and compiled it into the Onboarding Guide.
Developing Intern Info Sheets
Next, I reviewed information regarding RFC’s available internships and organized them into reader-friendly info sheets. I added more detail in the responsibilities section, and included some learning opportunities that weren’t noted in the original Intern Info Sheets. This would ensure that prospective interns have a clear understanding of what each internship entails.
Creating an Orientation Presentation.
I designed an engaging and informative presentation that includes a brief introduction to RFC and an overview of its mission. Additionally it provides details surrounding the clinic such as the community impact, how it operates as a non-profit and what interns can anticipate during their internship. Its purpose is to make new interns feel welcomed and informed.
Skills Utilized
Throughout creating and organizing the onboarding guide, the intern info sheets, and orientation presentation for the RFC I used many skills learned during my studies at BYU-I. I conducted research to gather necessary information, and used my writing skills to develop clear, concise documents. Along with this, I designed the lay out to make the content reader-friendly. I used document synthesis to organize information into fewer documents. To ensure professionalism I continuously revised and edited the documents. There was consistent communication between RFC’s Director of Volunteers and myself to verify details and incorporate feedback.
Reflection, Onward, and Gratitude
From honing my skills in research, writing, communication, and organization this project has been an insightful experience. Moving forward, the documents are currently undergoing final review from the RFC’s Director of Volunteers and Board for any final adjustment recommendations. Once all adjustment are complete the documents will be sent to the RFC for use in future hiring processes. I am grateful for the Rexburg Free Clinic allowing me to have had the opportunity to work with them on improving their operations. In addition I would like to extend a special thanks to the RFC’s Director of Volunteers, and my Project Mentor, their feedback was valuable in the projects success.