SJC Interns • Hayley Mann ‘17

Hayley MannPsychology
Interned at Pollack Center in Ronkonkoma


Traumatic brain injury, addiction and disabilities are extremely devastating to a person's mental health. The rehabilitation process can be exhausting, and the road to recovery can stretch on for miles. Hayley Mann '17 spent her summer internship at The Pollack Center for Recovery and Wellness in Ronkonkoma, assisting patients from the impact of psychiatric impairments, disability and trauma. Below, Hayley shares what she learned this summer, and what she anticipated before entering the internship.

August 1, 2016 • Post-Internship Reflections

"One of the most valuable things that I have learned, is that while I'm interacting with the members, I often realize that their illnesses don't define them."

"Considering that I'm an undergraduate student, I feel that this internship has definitely lived up to its potential. In the beginning, my supervisor had apologized to me for not being able to give me access to some of the confidential interactions between the members and the staff. Yet, I'm still very exposed to the members and how they express how they're dealing with their mental illnesses and how it has effected their lives.

"I mainly observe, assist and interact with the members, and will often help the staff members with any task they need me to do.

"One of the most valuable things that I have learned, is that while I'm interacting with the members, I often realize that their illnesses don't define them. A casual observer would probably not even know that these individuals suffer from mental illnesses and addictions. I have learned a lot about myself and people with psychological diagnoses. I know that it will positively impact the way I perceive our society and how judgmental we could be towards these individuals."

June 27 • Pre-Internship Expectations

"My counselor had suggested the idea to me so I looked further into it and became interested in interning for The Pollack Center. I would really like to learn more about the illnesses that the patients are experiencing, and to learn the different therapeutic techniques to diagnose them. I am hoping that my experiences will help me evolve into a well rounded person."

What was your dream job as a kid, and how has that vision evolved over time?

"When I was a kid, I had always wanted to be an elementary school teacher because I always enjoyed working with little children. As I became older, I started to have more of an interest in working with people who are seriously ill and who are suffering from trauma.  "

What are your plans after you graduate?

"I would like to pursue in my major or minor by either working in the clinical field or becoming a speech pathologist."

Who has been the biggest influence on your life and why?

"My parents are the biggest influences in my life because they have always been there supporting me throughout the way and encourage me to never give up on my dreams. I appreciate all the advice and help they have provided for me, especially during the most stressful times of my life."