For George Mason ĢAV master of public health student Olivia Thornton, completing a practicum at the Inova Fairfax Department of Community Health was an opportunity to step into the field and explore public health in action. Thornton is on track to graduate in Fall 2025.
With responsibilities that included promoting participation in the Community Health Needs Assessment at local events, attending stakeholder meetings, and conducting qualitative data analysis on community feedback, Thornton was immersed in the essential work of community engagement from day one.
One of the most valuable takeaways? “I learned how crucial it is to engage directly with the community,” she said. “It’s one thing to study public health strategies in class—it's another to see how those strategies are shaped by real voices and lived experiences.”
The practicum also strengthened her confidence in two key areas: data collection and participant recruitment—both of which are foundational for Thornton’s intended career in clinical research or data analysis. “Before this experience, I wasn’t as confident in those skills. Now, I feel much more prepared to take them into my future work.”
Equally important was the chance to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and community organizations, gaining a better understanding of how partnerships help drive meaningful change in public health.
When asked what advice she would give to other students preparing for their internships, her message was simple: Keep an open mind. “Don’t overlook an opportunity just because it doesn’t perfectly match your original plan," she said. "Some of the most valuable experiences come from stepping outside of your comfort zone. Look for roles that challenge you and offer a variety of responsibilities—you’ll be surprised by how much you grow.”
Through meaningful engagement, new skills, and real-world collaboration, this practicum gave Thornton a clearer vision of where they’re headed—and the confidence to get there.