Early Career Exploration Program (INTERNSHIP)

At Oak Hill, we believe careers in healthcare and human services are more than jobs—they are opportunities to make a lasting impact. For more than 130 years, Oak Hill has empowered individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live meaningful, independent lives through innovative residential, educational, clinical, and community-based services.

Community Living Arrangements (CLAs), also called group homes, are residential homes operated by the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (DDS) or private organizations. They provide individuals with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to live in a home within their community while receiving the support they need. Most CLAs house up to six residents. Many participate in the Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver program, which provides federal funding for services. 

Early Career Exploration Program Mission Statement

The Oak Hill Early Career Exploration Program is committed to developing the next generation of compassionate professionals by providing students pursuing degrees in Professional Counseling, Social Work, Nursing, Allied Health, and other Healthcare and Human Services disciplines with meaningful, hands-on learning experiences.

Through structured internships, mentorship, and real-world exposure, students will gain valuable skills while working alongside experienced professionals who support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, behavioral health needs, and complex medical conditions. Our goal is to bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice by creating opportunities for students to apply their education in a supportive, mission-driven environment.

By partnering with colleges and universities, Oak Hill seeks to build a sustainable workforce pipeline that prepares future professionals for rewarding careers in healthcare and human services. Students who successfully complete the program will be well-positioned to transition into employment with Oak Hill, allowing them to continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of the individuals and communities we serve.

Together, we are investing in tomorrow's healthcare and human services leaders—one internship, one mentorship, and one career at a time.

Program Highlights

• Dedicated Mentor: Be paired with an experienced Oak Hill professional who will provide guidance, coaching, and support throughout the internship.
• Hands-On Learning: Observe and participate in day-to-day operations while developing practical skills that complement your academic studies.
• Group Home Shadowing Experience: Spend time in one of Oak Hill's residential group homes, learning best practices in person-centered care, communication, behavioral support, and interdisciplinary teamwork.
• Three-Week Immersive Internship: Complete a structured three-week internship designed to provide meaningful exposure to careers in healthcare and human services.
• Career Exploration: Learn about a variety of career paths in Professional Counseling, Social Work, Nursing, Allied Health, Human Services, and Direct Support.
• Professional Development: Build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and gain experience working with multidisciplinary teams in a mission-driven organization.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with leaders and professionals across Oak Hill who are passionate about mentoring the next generation of healthcare and human services professionals.
• Employment Opportunities: Students who successfully complete the internship may be considered for employment with Oak Hill. Opportunities are available for:
  • Full-Time positions
  • Part-Time positions
  • Per Diem/Flexible positions
• Grow With the Team: Begin building your career with an organization committed to professional growth, ongoing learning, and making a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.

Minimum Qualifications

• 18+ years old
•  High school diploma or equivalent, college students encouraged to   apply!
• Interest in community and performing meaningful work.
• Responsible, punctual team player with a desire to learn
• Ability to commit to a full-time, three-week internship

We support equality for and advancement of all people, based on their qualifications and actions alone, without regard to color, gender, age, religion, national origin or disability.
 

Our company is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, please reach out to [email protected]. We will make every effort to accommodate your needs in accordance with applicable laws and our commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

An Equal Opportunity Employer.