NC West Virginia News

Alexander Neukam's summer internship has reinforced his commitment to a career in the health field. Influenced by advice that highlighted the rewarding nature of helping others, Neukam pursued a Health and Well-Being program at West Virginia University (WVU). This past summer, he interned at Moco Movement in Bethesda, Maryland, as a therapeutic aide.

During his internship, Neukam supported occupational, physical, and speech therapists working with children aged 5 to 17. "I was a therapeutic aide, so I would help the therapists, but I also interacted with the kids directly," he explains. He gained valuable hands-on experience and found building relationships with children like Kai particularly rewarding. "His mom told me how much of a good job I did," says Neukam.

Neukam learned about professionalism through observing therapists' positive attitudes and time management skills. "You always need to keep a positive attitude," he notes.

Looking forward, Neukam plans to work before attending graduate school in Washington D.C., or Maryland. His goal is to become an occupational therapist after gaining practical experience.

He credits WVU for providing a strong foundation for his career path. The supportive community within the Health and Well-Being program has been instrumental in his success. "I love the classes and the professors here," Neukam states.

Neukam feels confident about his future as he continues on his journey toward becoming an occupational therapist. "There’s absolutely no place like West Virginia," he concludes.