Josie Te Slaa

Responsibilities

From January to March, I assisted with the Fit City Wellness Challenge and then led and planned the April Mobility Wellness Challenge and its accompanying drop-by event. I regularly took InBody measurements, wrote mass email communications, and contributed bi-weekly to the “City Slickers” Health Briefs with workout and recipe suggestions. I designed seasonal wellness materials, including Spring and Summer “Toilet Talk” flyers and various promotional graphics for wellness events using Canva, such as the Sleep Series infographics. I also created stretching and mobility routine guides in Canva and videos to support employee physical health. My role involved attending several key meetings, including the Benefits Advisory Team, Wellness Team, Fire Peer Fitness Team, Wellmark discussions, and HR Huddles. Additionally, I attended police officer and firefighter fitness testing, conducted wellness best practices research, and represented the organization at the Healthiest State Conference on April 16.

Accomplishments

My greatest accomplishment during my internship was leading and planning the April Mobility Challenge. I successfully engaged 98 participants and organized a well-attended mobility workshop with nearly 70 attendees. I designed and created all promotional materials, including flyers for both the challenge and the workshop. One of the highlights was offering a chair massager as a prize, which became very popular. Many employees expressed interest in getting one after trying it at the event. I also developed and distributed seven educational flyers covering topics like how to use foam rollers, lacrosse balls, and TheraBands, along with guided routines and information on the benefits of mobility. Additionally, I managed all weekly mass email communications to participants and city employees, ensuring strong engagement and clear messaging throughout the challenge.

Learning experience

One of the greatest lessons I learned during my internship is that while you can provide people with all the tools, information, and encouragement they need, lasting change ultimately depends on their own motivation. I realized that no matter how well-designed a program is or how helpful the resources and workshops are, individuals must be personally willing to take that first step and stay consistent. It taught me the importance of meeting people where they are, being patient, and focusing on creating engaging, accessible wellness experiences that inspire rather than pressure. This understanding has shaped the way I approach health promotion, recognizing that motivation and readiness are just as important as education.

What advice would you give?

My advice for future students in my major is to be confident in what you have learned through your classes because your education has prepared you more than you might think. Do not underestimate the value of your knowledge, especially when applying it in real-world settings such as internships. Supervisors are often open to new ideas and fresh perspectives, so do not hesitate to speak up and share your thoughts. Whether you are suggesting a new wellness initiative or offering a different approach to communication, your input can have a meaningful impact. Trust in your abilities, stay curious, and take initiative because you will grow the most when you step outside your comfort zone.