Exploring Career Possibilities – Lindsay Vandenbroeck

For psychology major Lindsay Vandenbroeck, ’16, participating in a summer internship was far more than a learning experience. It added new dimension to her career possibilities after graduation.

Having worked for the Meredith Autism Program and the Autism Society of North Carolina during her time at Meredith, Lindsay discovered a passion for working with children.

But her summer 2015 internship at the Cypress Club of Raleigh opened her eyes to another population she could serve. Lindsay helped plan and lead cognitively appropriate activities for elderly residents with dementia.

“My internship allowed me to gain a lot of practical experience outside the classroom. Working with a special population taught me that having patience is more important than we might think. I also learned to get out of my shell, which has been something that I have struggled with.”

With a minor in business administration, Lindsay is planning to apply for jobs with companies in the Research Triangle Park.

But her internship experience has opened another door.

“I am also applying to local retirement communities, because my internship with this population made me realize that I could see myself doing this as a career.”

After working for a few years, Lindsay plans to earn a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis and eventually work in a center for autism. She credits Meredith with enabling her to pursue a variety of career opportunities.

“I truly believe that I would not have had so much work experience and two internships under my belt before starting my senior year if I hadn’t come to Meredith, and if Dr. Edwards wasn’t my advisor. I know that I will be prepared to enter the workforce after graduation because of the hands-on approach that Meredith College takes.”