Question 1

Do interns get paid or earn credit?

Accepted Answer

Interns can earn either academic credit or a stipend, depending on their classification as a student intern or affiliate employee.

Question 2

What clinical sites do interns actually work at?

Accepted Answer

Sites include UCSF's Office of Population Health and Accountable Care, the Transplant Division, the Breast Care Center, the Patient and Family Cancer Support Center, and the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Healthcare System.

Question 3

What does the day-to-day work look like?

Accepted Answer

Interns serve as patient navigators or health coaches, helping patients prepare questions for appointments, understand diagnoses and treatment options, and navigate care systems. They work under the supervision of physicians, nurses, social workers, and other clinical staff.

Question 4

Is this program only for certain majors or backgrounds?

Accepted Answer

The program specifically focuses on attracting students from a variety of backgrounds, particularly those who can support underserved patient populations. No specific major is required.

Question 5

What are the career outcomes for alumni?

Accepted Answer

Of 112 alumni from five or more years ago, 75% had completed medical, pharmacy, or nursing school, with that figure projected to reach 91% including those currently enrolled.

Patient Advocacy Student Group