Intern Spotlights

Nathan’s journey at QC began during his final semester at Northern Arizona University (NAU), where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Originally from Peoria, Nathan had always been drawn to helping individuals with disabilities, as he knew several people growing up who faced challenges similar to the clients that QC serves.

As an intern, Nathan shadowed a job coach helping a client train at Evergreen Academy Preschool. “The thing I enjoyed most about my internship was building a relationship with the clients and watching them grow,” he said. 

Nathan’s work ethic and commitment to the clients didn’t go unnoticed, and he was offered a full-time position at QC. Now, as part of the HR team, Nathan helps with onboarding, training, and various administrative tasks, supporting both staff and clients.

“I would highly recommend this internship to other students,” he added. “I thoroughly enjoyed my time here, and I believe it would be a valuable experience for anyone interested in making a real difference.”

Jade, a third-year Psychological Sciences major at NAU, hails from Oahu, Hawaii. After attending an informational meeting about internship opportunities, Jade found herself drawn to QC’s mission.

“I spent significant time learning about QC by exploring its website and newsletters,” she recalled. “I was thoroughly impressed by QC’s extensive outreach and dedication to its mission; it then became my mission to help in whatever way possible.”

Jade’s first few weeks were spent working closely with staff and offering research-based suggestions to help with Quality Connections becoming the operators of the Helping Hands program in Page. More recently, she has been shadowing the HR department – including former intern Nathan – and helping refine HR processes and standard operating procedures. 

“The best part of my internship has been becoming part of a team,” said Jade, whose long-term goal is to earn her master’s in organizational psychology. “Everyone at QC has been highly flexible and willing to include me as much as possible. One project that has stuck out to me was working on the Onboarding Process checklist for the Human Resources department, as it added to my prior knowledge on the subject from my personnel psychology course.”

Vannessa, who is originally from the Midwest, is a senior in the social work program at NAU. She’s set to graduate next month and begin an advanced standing master’s program in social work at that time. Vannessa’s internship at QC was arranged through her field coordinator, and she’s spent her time assisting with organizing files, both online and in person, and working in the adult day program.

“I’ve really appreciated how flexible everyone has been with my schedule, and the team here has made me feel welcome every day,” she said. “It’s been a great learning experience.” 

Alongside her studies, Vannessa works at the Boys and Girls Club of Flagstaff and plans to continue her work there after graduation.

“I would definitely recommend this internship to others,” Vannessa said. “Everyone at QC is so fun to work with, and I’ve learned a lot during my time here.”

We are incredibly grateful to have interns like Jade, Vannessa, and Nathan as part of the QC family. Their hard work and dedication reflect the values that Quality Connections strives for every day: supporting individuals to lead more independent lives through education, training, and community involvement.

Stay tuned for more stories and updates from our incredible interns and team.