Name: Chinyere Ukwuoma
Pronouns: she/her
Semester of Internship: Spring 2026
Major: Biological Sciences
Current Class Level: Senior
This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship
Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): The Hilltop Institute
Location of the Organization (City, State): Catonsville, Maryland
Title of position: Health Policy Intern
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
As an intern I performed data validation and revised annual reports with up-to-date information. I assisted with redesigning figures using Excel to improve visualization of Maryland Medicaid program enrollment trends. I helped carry out a literature review of 80+ articles to be used in an evaluation of the Health Homes program. I also ensured all documents were 100% complaint with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act using tools in Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Adobe Acrobat.
Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
My initial interview came from a recommendation from my previous supervisor in the business office at the same organization. I started there as an assistant before moving to the policy team. I had expressed interest in interning with the health policy team and received an email stating they wanted to interview me and asking for a copy on my resume in Fall 2025.
What resources did you use to find your current experience?
Faculty Connections, Handshake
What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?
I really like the environment and the people I work with. Everyone is extremely friendly and wants to see you succeed.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
My work has supported analysis that drives policy-decision making. Policymakers look at the reports done by Hilltop and similar organizations to make decisions about health policy. having informed analysis is important, especially for programs that support vulnerable communities.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
I would tell a student to look for research institutes on campus doing work that you are interested in and that HandShake is a great resource. I had no idea the Hilltop Institute existed until I saw a posting for the Business Office assistant role on HandShake. That was how I got started at the organization before becoming a health policy intern. Make it clear what your interests are and there will be people willing to support you!