You never know when a foot-in-the-door opportunity will turn into a career to LOVE. That’s exactly what happened for Lorinda Schwartz, RN.
 
“Before the (Gundersen) nurse internship program, I didn’t feel ready to graduate,” the CNA-turned-nurse intern says. “Now, I feel so prepared. I’m thrilled I found where I fit.”
 
The Gundersen Region of Bellin and Gundersen Health System offers a competitively paid, 10-week nurse internship. After working closely with RN preceptors in one clinical area, students are one step ahead as they enter their final year of nursing school. Placement opportunities include a variety of positions in Gundersen hospitals, procedural and specialty areas and in Gundersen clinics. And there is an opportunity for employment after the end of the summer internship, along with a potential RN job offer.
 
During COVID, Schwartz, who graduated from Viterbo University in La Crosse, worked at Gundersen Health System as a CNA, filling in wherever she was needed. When she was accepted into the nurse internship program, she started working in Postpartum.
 
“I loved it! Parents really depend on you to help them prepare for and adjust to a new baby," Schwartz says. "We are able to help educate parents before they leave the hospital with their little one."
 
Recruiters reached out to Schwartz with an opportunity. She could stay on and continue her internship if she verbally accepted an RN position at Gundersen upon graduation. Schwartz accepted – and she graduated in December 2022.
 
“Knowing I had a job right when I graduated relieved so much stress,” Schwartz says. “If you are feeling nervous or unprepared, this program will give you so much confidence.”