Navigating the Chiropractic Journey: The Invaluable Role of Internships

Hey everyone! Today, let’s dive into a topic that often comes up – internships. Now, internships aren’t necessarily the make-or-break moment in your chiropractic journey, but let me tell you, they can either give you a fantastic jump start or, if not approached right, hold you back a bit.

So, when you’re on the lookout for an internship, the first thing to ponder is your mindset. Ask yourself, “Am I just trying to get through the internship, or am I looking to grow through it?” We’ve had both kinds in our office – interns just aiming to move on to the next phase and others genuinely seeking learning opportunities and growth.

At our place, we’ve got this curriculum we use for both interns and new doctors. It’s like our secret sauce – a set of books to read, protocols to follow, and experiences to gain. The last thing I’d want is for an intern to be just standing there, watching us work. That’s not how you grow; that’s just getting through.

Here’s a breakdown of how we tackle internships:

1. Planning is Key

First things first, plan it out. Figure out the classes you need to pull down so you can leave the state if needed. Think about where you want to be, what opportunities you want to explore.

2. Shadowing – The Coffee Date of Internships

Shadowing is like a coffee date with the practice. You get to know the ins and outs, see what’s happening behind the scenes, and decide if you want to take it to the next level – the internship. It’s all about exploring the potential for a longer-term relationship.

3. Ask Questions and Learn from Others

Don’t be shy to ask questions. Talk to previous interns, learn from their experiences. We usually have a bunch of interns every year, some from undergrad, some from grad school. Their insights can be golden. We even share videos of their experiences to give you a real feel for what it’s like.

4. Clarify Expectations

As the internship wraps up, clarify your expectations and theirs. Are you looking to work together long-term, or is it a temporary gig? Clear communication from the start sets the tone for a smoother process.

Remember, it’s not just about getting through; it’s about growing through. Define your curriculum, build relationships for the future, and be clear on your expectations.

I’m Dr. Lowe, have great day