UCOR’s intern program provides unique opportunities for non-traditional students like Jessica Ariks. After 15 years serving as the nurse for a local elementary school, Ariks was looking for a fresh start in a new career. A newly single mom, she sought the schedule stability of her former career but with an income to better provide for her three kids.
After exploring options that could complement her nursing education, Ariks decided on the UCOR-sponsored Environmental Health Technology program at Roane State Community College in Harriman, Tennessee. Excited to be among the first safety and industrial hygiene interns from that program, Ariks said this has been her dream job since she first enrolled.
“This internship is the realization that I can set goals and put in the work to achieve them,” Ariks said. “It’s the discovery that my efforts are worth the sacrifices I’ve made. It’s the example I’ll use years from now with my three daughters when they go through hard things and doubt themselves.”
