Alison Lynn, a junior majoring in Nursing and Psychology, has worked at Kansas Academy of Family Physicians, or KAFP, for the past year at a job she found through Handshake. On a daily basis, Lynn assists with office tasks as well as receives the opportunity to take part in trainings that increase her medical knowledge along with igniting more passion for her major.

“In June, I was able to join KAFP at our 70th anniversary annual meeting where doctors come to receive their continuing medical education credits. Here, I was able to participate in their “Latex to Laryngoscopy” presentation, which showcases to medical students how to stitch patients, prepare for surgery, intubate, and experience a birthing simulator,” she said. “It was truly an experience that I would not have been able to have elsewhere.”

Working at this non-profit has also given Lynn the opportunity to grow in her communication, management, and teamwork skills on a daily basis.

“When I first began this job, my supervisor was very clear in wanting to help me advance my future,” she declared. “I have been able to enhance my performance on my own as well as through the support of my work environment.”

While this position may not be exactly where she sees herself in the future, Lynn acknowledges how beneficial the opportunity has been to work at KAFP while studying at Wichita State.

“It has allowed me to make connections with potential future employers as well as cultivate my awareness of the opportunities that I have to grow in the health industry,” she said. “I believe this experience has also greatly improved my confidence in the field. When I was offered this position at KAFP, I strongly doubted my ability to work in such an influential field. I have since grown academically and personally with their support and direction."

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Wichita State's applied learning program gives students hands-on, paid experience with industry partners, helping them build careers before graduation.

For more information, contact the Shocker Career Accelerator at (316) 978-3688, SCA@wichita.edu, or visit wichita.edu/Career. You can also stop by in person at the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, on the Wichita State campus.