Neuro-Fit – Internship Experience at Neuro-Fit: Growth, Connection, and Impact

Each semester, SLI’s Neuro-Fit internship welcomes a new group of college students who come to support individuals with brain injuries—and leave transformed by the experience. This semester we hosted 22 interns. In this month’s Spotlight, four of those interns share how the program helped them grow personally and professionally while deepening their passion for the neuro-wellness field.

For Jackie Stadelmann of Regis College, returning for a second semester brought a new level of confidence - "I remember feeling so overwhelmed on my first day, not knowing what to expect, and now I’m ready for whatever is thrown my way." Jackie emphasized the power of relationships in motivating participants and how small connections, like a shared love of music, can transform a session.

Fellow Regis intern Gracie Marsh echoed this theme, noting how Neuro-Fit solidified her career path in occupational therapy - "You learn so much and meet so many people you get to know on a deeper level. Patience and adaptability are key."

Olivia McElhinney, from UMASS Lowell, describes a breakthrough moment that shifted in her understanding of the brain injury community - “My favorite memory from the semester was when one of my participants was first able to walk sideways on the treadmill. This was a goal she had been working towards, and you could see how proud she was of herself. Her family came in and took videos and were all so excited. It was such a great feeling to have been part of her progress and see her achieve something that she really had to work for.”

Kirsten Ingram, also from UMass Lowell, reflected on how the program changed her perspective - "Don’t set limitations on anyone - they know their body better than anyone else." She found the greatest reward came from watching participants overcome challenges they once thought impossible.

Each of these interns came to Neuro-Fit to support others—and left with a deeper sense of empathy, purpose, and professional direction. Their stories are a testament to the unique and lasting value of hands-on, person-centered learning.

We thank these interns and the entire group of students who made Neuro-Fit another successful and beneficial semester for the people we serve.