The key to creating a successful remote internship with Anna Peskin & Jill Peterson

Internships are an invaluable way for aspiring professionals to gain hands-on experience and immerse themselves in the nuances of their chosen fields. For interns, it's an opportunity to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. Mentors, on the other hand, benefit from fresh perspectives and an extra set of hands to share the workload.

But what happens when the world is forced into a state of quarantine, and the traditional internship model is turned upside down? This is the reality many are facing as virtual learning and remote work become the norm. Today, we explore how Anna Peskin, a certified Orientation and Mobility (O&M) specialist, and her intern, Jill Peterson, have navigated these uncharted waters.

Embracing the Challenges of Virtual Internships

As the pandemic reshaped how we live and work, Anna and Jill had to adapt quickly to a fully virtual internship experience. Despite the initial hurdles, they found ways to thrive by fostering communication, creativity, and collaboration.

Building Relationships in a Virtual World

One unexpected benefit of the virtual format has been the opportunity to engage not just with students but also with their families. Anna and Jill noted how parents and siblings have become active participants in the learning process. This has helped to strengthen relationships and create a more holistic educational experience.

Innovative Lesson Planning

Transitioning to virtual learning demanded a creative approach to lesson planning. Jill and Anna crafted lessons that could be conducted remotely, such as using tactile maps to teach traffic patterns or planning virtual trips to places like the Grand Canyon. By using everyday household items, they developed engaging activities like obstacle courses and scavenger hunts, ensuring that students remained active and involved.

Leveraging Technology for Connectivity

While Zoom was their primary platform for virtual lessons, they also utilized tools like Google Classroom to assign and discuss work. Flexibility in using various platforms, including FaceTime when necessary, allowed them to maintain seamless communication with students and their families.

Keys to a Successful Virtual Internship

Anna and Jill's story highlights several key takeaways for mentors and interns navigating virtual internships:

1. Strong Communication: Regular check-ins and open lines of communication are vital. Anna consistently ensured Jill felt supported, which helped ease the transition to virtual teaching.

2. Adaptability: Both Anna and Jill emphasized the importance of being flexible and open to new methods. The ability to adjust lesson plans and teaching methods was crucial for their success.

3. Collaboration: Working together to brainstorm ideas and troubleshoot issues allowed them to develop effective strategies for virtual teaching. This partnership was instrumental in creating a positive and productive learning environment.

4. Gratitude and Perspective: Recognizing the unique opportunity to be pioneers in virtual education helped shift their mindset. Instead of focusing on the challenges, they embraced the chance to innovate and grow within their roles.

Moving Forward in a Digital Era

For mentors, the transition to supervising interns in a digital format involves balancing support with independence. Anna advises supervisors to combine their expertise with their intern's fresh ideas, ensuring a collaborative environment where both can thrive.

For interns, it’s about staying engaged, communicating effectively, and trusting their abilities. Jill's experience underscores the importance of maintaining a positive outlook and leveraging the support of mentors to navigate the complexities of virtual internships.

As we continue to adapt to a more digital world, Anna and Jill's journey serves as a blueprint for success. Their story is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and teamwork in overcoming the challenges of virtual internships.

So, whether you’re an intern embarking on your professional journey or a mentor guiding the next generation, take inspiration from Anna and Jill’s experience. The future of internships may look different, but with the right approach, it can be just as rewarding and impactful.

Useful Resources:

• Explore the IOMOS Priority List to stay ahead in your O&M practice.
• Join the Clarity Workshop for in-depth training and actionable strategies.
• Register for the TVI Symposium  to connect with fellow educators and learn from experts in the field.