Meet Our Summer Externs and Interns: How Baptist Health Invests in the Next Generation of Healthcare Workers
At Baptist Health, we believe that investing in the future of healthcare starts with supporting and developing the next generation of healthcare professionals. That’s why every summer, we welcome a dynamic group of student externs and interns from across Arkansas and beyond. These programs provide students with meaningful, hands-on experience in real healthcare environments—bridging the gap between classroom learning and clinical practice.
Whether you’re pursuing a nursing degree, a clinical support role, or healthcare administration, our student programs offer opportunities to learn, grow, and gain valuable exposure to the healthcare field.
Nursing Externship Program
Our Nurse Extern Program is a six-week, paid summer opportunity that immerses nursing students in direct patient care. Designed for students who have completed at least two semesters of nursing school (including M/S clinical rotations), the program offers:
• Three 12-hour shifts per week for a total of 216 practicum hours
• One-on-one mentorship from experienced RNs
• Hands-on experience in tasks such as ambulation, bathing, vital signs, and meal assistance
• Real-time application of classroom knowledge in a fast-paced, supportive environment
Externs are placed in hospitals across the Baptist Health system, including Little Rock, North Little Rock, Fort Smith, Conway, BHRI, Extended Care, and Drew County. This program prepares students for a smoother transition from nursing school to licensed RN practice.
“Being given the opportunity to work alongside an experienced nurse, ask all my questions, and especially get to practice my skills, all contributed to my growth and confidence as a nurse.”
— Sierra Cassidy, Former Nurse Extern
Internships for Allied Health and Professional Programs
In addition to clinical nursing externships, Baptist Health offers internships for students in allied health fields and professional programs. Interns are paired with mentors and departments aligned with their interests and career goals. These placements include roles in:
• Marketing
• Information Systems
• Facilities Management
• Real Estate
• Community Health
• Accounting
• Human Resources
• Supply Chain
• AR Health Group/PP
Interns contribute to real projects, interact with staff and patients, and develop the soft skills and leadership competencies essential for future success.
Why Baptist Health for Early Career Opportunities?
Our commitment to students doesn’t stop after one summer. At Baptist Health, we offer a robust support system that nurtures long-term growth. Early career professionals have access to:
• Tuition assistance for continued education
• Clinical and non-clinical residency programs
• Career coaching and mentorship
• A welcoming culture focused on purpose-driven work
We want students to do more than just explore healthcare careers—we want them to envision their future here.
Who Should Apply?
These programs are ideal for:
• Nursing students with two semesters of clinical rotations completed
• Allied health students looking for real-world experience
• College juniors or seniors interested in healthcare business operations
• Anyone seeking mentorship and career direction in a healthcare setting
Our programs are designed to develop well-rounded, compassionate, and skilled professionals ready to make a difference from day one.
Tips for Future Interns and Externs
If you're considering applying for an internship or externship at Baptist Health, here are some helpful tips to help you prepare and succeed:
1. Start early.
Research deadlines, gather your application materials, and connect with your academic advisors to identify which program is the right fit for your goals.
2. Be open to learning.
No one expects you to know everything on day one. Ask questions, take notes, and treat every day as a learning opportunity.
3. Build relationships.
Your mentors, peers, and clinical staff are valuable resources. Introduce yourself, show interest, and follow up with those who inspire you.
4. Reflect on your experience.
Keep a journal or log of what you learn. It will help you process your growth and prepare for job interviews or future clinical work.
5. Show initiative.
Demonstrate curiosity and a willingness to help. Volunteer for tasks, shadow in different departments when possible, and go the extra mile.
6. Be professional.
Arrive on time, follow dress codes, and communicate clearly. These small details go a long way in making a positive impression.
7. Use this as a career checkpoint.
An internship or externship is more than a resume builder—it’s a chance to test drive your future. Take stock of what excites you and what you want to explore further.
Get Involved
If you’re a student interested in gaining early exposure to healthcare careers, Baptist Health is the place to start. Our externs and interns don’t just observe—they contribute. They learn by doing. And many of them return to Baptist Health as full-time employees after graduation.
Learn more about student opportunities and apply at BaptistHealthCareers.com/Students.
Together, we’re shaping the future of healthcare—one student at a time.
