Kaiser Permanente internship program helps Valley students explore health care careers

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Kaiser Permanente's KP LAUNCH program wrapped up its 58th year this week. The paid professional internship program gives high school and college students an opportunity to learn practical job skills, gain hands-on experience and explore careers in health care.

At Kaiser Permanente Fresno, interns shadow doctors and nurses while learning about different aspects of the health care field.

"They can see providers, they can see nurses, they can see clerical, like so many different facets and get that real-life experience," said Kellie Peterson, a Kaiser pediatrics nurse manager.

The Fresno Kaiser Permanente program hosted eight interns from schools throughout the Valley this year. One of those interns is Nevaeha Negrete, who learned about the opportunity through her science class.

"I wasn't really put into like health care and stuff, so I feel like this internship has definitely furthered my career in that," Negrete said, recalling the moment she learned she had been accepted into the program.

Negrete said she entered the internship interested in becoming a pediatric neurologist but discovered a new interest during the program.

"I also shadowed some anesthesiologists. I found out that I really like anesthesia. I like the O.R.; I like how fast-paced it is. I like how I can meet new, different doctors. I can talk to patients, make sure they feel comfortable," she said.

KP LAUNCH participants work 32 to 40 hours a week for two months. Kaiser said interns often work in nonclinical settings, including accounting, human resources, administration and support services.

Students also spend eight hours each week on professional development while earning pay.

Negrete said the support she received from staff helped make the experience valuable.

"They take you under their wing. They teach you to educate you, and they show you really how it is. They don't treat you like a high schooler. They treat you like one of their own," she said.

Negrete graduated a year early at age 16 and said the internship helped prepare her for the next step in her education and career.

"If you're really interested in furthering your education and your professionalism and your career, then I would say this program is definitely something that students in high school should consider," Negrete said.

The program provides students with exposure to health care careers and professional development opportunities as they prepare for future educational and workforce goals.

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