Creating Smiles, Improving Lives

Austin Smiles Blog

Interning with AS – Community-Driven Care

By Cecile N.

This summer, I had the privilege of interning with Austin Smiles, a nonprofit dedicated to providing access to healthcare for children with cleft lip and palate. As a pre-dental student majoring in Health Sciences, Art History, and Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Rice University, I was eager to contribute to my community in Austin and expand my understanding of the dental field.

From the start, I immersed myself in a variety of projects. One highlight was assisting with Dental Day, where we organized activities and coordinated the event. I played a key role in reaching out to local families, ensuring they were informed about the event and encouraging their participation. Additionally, I took charge of organizing activities for the children, creating an engaging and educational experience. I also helped prepare dental hygiene bags and design flyers for the event in September. This hands-on experience taught me the intricacies of event planning and allowed me to see firsthand the impact of our efforts on the community.

Participating in the mission trip to Veracruz, Mexico, was another pivotal part of my internship. I managed inventory to ensure all supplies were mission-ready and assisted in uploading and organizing records for easy access before and after the trip. This behind-the-scenes work was eye-opening, revealing the complex logistics essential for successful healthcare outreach.

During my internship, I had the opportunity to contribute to a new partnership with Texas Children’s Hospital, which recently opened in North Austin. I helped create and provide newborn care kits for parents of children with cleft palate and lip. This initiative supports local mothers by offering essential resources and guidance, enhancing their access to care. Being part of this project was incredibly fulfilling, as it allowed us to extend our impact within the community and strengthen ties with a renowned healthcare provider.

The work environment at Austin Smiles was incredibly supportive and flexible. I quickly bonded with fellow interns, who came from various academic backgrounds and colleges. It was enriching to connect with people studying different fields, each bringing unique perspectives and ideas. These friendships made my internship all the more rewarding. Together, we navigated challenges and celebrated triumphs, learning from one another along the way. Sharing this journey with such a diverse group enhanced my experience, and I cherished the opportunity to form lasting connections.

I am grateful to the staff at Austin Smiles for providing this opportunity to engage deeply with a cause I am passionate about. Their dedication to improving access to healthcare is inspiring, and I am proud to have been part of such a meaningful effort.

As I continue my journey towards dentistry, the experiences and connections from this summer will undoubtedly guide and motivate me. This internship not only solidified my career aspirations but also deepened my commitment to serving others through compassionate healthcare.

Thank you, Austin Smiles, for a summer filled with growth, learning, and unforgettable experiences.