Ottawa County CPS Internship
Baleigh
Experience Information
Employer: MDHHS CPS
Job Title: CPS Intern
Major: Criminal Justice
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: No
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
I did my internship through Ottawa County's Children Protective Services. Their mission is to protect children in the Ottawa County area in both their homes and at school. They are located within the MDHHS building in Holland but serve all over the Ottawa area.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
My tasks were to mostly observe and help out when needed. I shadowed all aspects of child welfare; from CPS both investigative and ongoing to foster care. I helped with parenting times, petitions, removals, investigations, family team meetings, and creating genograms to name a few things.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I gained so much through this expereince. I can now say that I know what career I want to persue when I graduate. This internship opened up my eyes to all that CPS actually does for the community and making sure it is safe. I learned how to communicate more effectively, remain calm under stressful times, and get along with all different people.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of this internship was getting to experience all the different aspects of CPS and child welfare. There is always so much going on and everyone is always so busy. It was always so fun to get to tag along to different things and get to experience them.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This internship made me aware that I definitely want to persue CPS as a career once I graduate in the Winter.