INTERNSHIP SPOTLIGHT: MACKENZIE HUPP ’22

Mackenzie Hupp ’22
Hometown: Willoughby, Ohio
Major: Psychology
Internship: Summer Treatment Program at Florida International University’s Center for Children and Families

Describe your internship:
My internship was with the Summer Treatment Program as a counselor during the summer of 2021. They trained me to implement behavior therapy for children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Conduct Disorder, Oppositional-Defiant Disorder, learning problems, and related behavior problems. The treatment consisted of a token economy where children could either earn or lose points based on their behavior in addition to earning weekly rewards for appropriate behavior. There was a large focus on social praise and attention throughout the program. For my group of campers, I was a Soccer Sports Leader; therefore, I planned practices and coached games! It was amazing to see their improvements throughout the summer.  

Where was your internship?
Miami

How did you hear about this opportunity?
I found it on Florida International University’s webpage as I knew I was interested in the Summer Treatment Program. After filling out the application, I then went through a series of interviews before being accepted.

How did Westminster’s curriculum prepare you for your internship?
I was able to make connections from my psychology classes and apply them to the internship which enhanced my experience at the Summer Treatment Program. I am preparing to become an Occupational Therapist, so working in a clinical setting with kids and coworkers allowed me to develop great clinical skills.

What Westminster activities are you involved in?
I am a part of the Honors College, Speech and Debate Society, Psi Chi Psychology Honors Society, Psychology Club, Sigma Delta Pi Spanish Honors Society, Sigma Kappa, Habitat for Humanity and Book Club. I also was a 4-year member of the Women’s Soccer Team and have recently joined the Women’s Track Team.

What do you plan on doing after graduation in the spring?
I will be attending The Ohio State University as a Doctor of Occupational Therapy student.

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