Interning with intention: Inside CWRU students’ summer internships
This summer, Case Western Reserve University students are stepping far beyond the classroom—into hospitals and research labs, startups and advocacy organizations, engineering firms and art studios. What unites their experiences is not ambition, but intention.
From designing solutions for healthcare access and sustainability to supporting children with developmental needs or shaping more inclusive public policy, these students are pursuing internships that reflect both their passions and their purpose. They are asking meaningful questions, embracing complexity, and learning to lead with both rigor and heart.
In celebration of National Intern Day, we’re spotlighting students who reflect the passion, curiosity and drive that define the CWRU community.
Deyhana Greene
Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences
Cleveland Clinic (Cleveland, Ohio)
Driven by a passion for mental health advocacy and equitable care, Deyhana Greene is building the skills and experience to become a strong clinical social worker—starting in one of the most fast-paced environments: the emergency department.
Currently serving on Cleveland Clinic’s social work team, she assesses patients in the emergency department who may require psychiatric or detox admissions. She also conducts assessments remotely for emergency departments across Ohio, helping ensure patients receive timely, appropriate mental health care.
This experience builds on her previous placement in the inpatient units, where she completed psychosocial assessments for newly admitted patients, joined psychiatrists and recreational therapists for treatment team rounds, and assisted with other social work–related needs throughout the hospital.
Greene secured her internship by reaching out to a peer employed at the Cleveland Clinic, who shared her resume with a supervisor. After an interview, she was invited to join the team—an opportunity she credits to initiative and self-advocacy.
“Take your opportunities into your own hands,” she advises other students seeking similar roles. “Advocate for yourself and shape your experience around your career goals.”
Since joining the team, she has gained stronger clinical judgment, interdisciplinary collaboration skills and confidence in her work, all with the support of an encouraging supervisor.
In recognition of her dedication, Greene received the Black Faculty and Staff Resource Group Scholarship at the annual CWRU Unity Banquet in April and was named a 2025–26 Verne LaMarr Lyons Memorial Scholar by the NASW Foundation.
“As a first-generation student from a low-income background, I deeply understand the importance of equity, access and systemic representation within marginalized communities,” she reflected. “I look forward to continuing my advocacy and destigmatization throughout my career!”
Read about the other student interns and learn more about Greene below.
Class Year: January 2026
Degree Program: MSW Online
Concentration: Mental Health with Adults + a Trauma-Informed Practice Certificate
Field Education Organization: Cleveland Clinic | Inpatient Behavioral Health Intake
Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio
Give a brief overview of your field education experience.
My field experience at the Cleveland Clinic has been nothing short of informative. I’m exposed to many different scenarios, ethical dilemmas and course integration opportunities.
What are you doing in field that you’re planning to bring with you into your career?
I’m learning how to work alongside other mental health professionals in an interdisciplinary environment.
What is something you've learned during your practicum that you have found to be most helpful in your social work journey?
Learning to think swiftly and adapt to any environment.
Who is someone you've met during your field practicum that will change the way you practice?
My field instructor, Molly. She’s been a large influence behind shifting the way I practice service delivery.
Before beginning at Case Western Reserve University, what were you doing?
I was a mental health case manager and applied behavior analysis therapist working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Before that, I was earning my BS in Psychology from John Carroll University.
Why did you choose to study social work and/or nonprofit management?
To be able to make a true difference for others individually and systematically.
Why did you choose CWRU/the Mandel School?
Case Western Reserve was my dream school and I had heard great things about the social work program at the Mandel School.
What is your favorite thing about CWRU/the Mandel School?
How supportive the faculty and staff are!
What has been your favorite class at the Mandel School so far? Why has it stood out to you?
My two-week CHange Agent Intensive (CHAI) with Marjorie Edguer. I was so nervous about beginning graduate school and pivoting into the field of social work and she made the transition less intimidating.
Describe any job, internship, volunteer, research or study abroad experiences you've had during your time at CWRU.
I studied abroad in Poland during spring break this year! It was an experience I'll forever hold extremely close to my heart.
Describe any extracurricular activities you're involved with on- or off-campus, or any interests, activities or passions.
I was the 2024–25 online student representative for the Mandel Council and was heavily involved with the school's Black Student Association as well. Outside of school I’m a makeup artist specializing in runway and editorial makeup, which has been a passion of mine for the last eight years. I also love to travel.
What is your favorite thing about Cleveland/University Circle?
How diverse it is.
What do you hope to do with your degree?
Post graduation, I hope to do medical social work and transition into traveling social work.
Do you have any plans for after graduation yet?
Study for my licensure exam.
What are you most looking forward to post-graduation?
Having a more open schedule!
What's something you'd share with an incoming student who is starting (a graduate or professional program) at CWRU?
Your education is what you make it, including your field location. Seek out what interests you and network! You never know who can get you through doors many believe are closed or nonexistent. Lastly, make it your priority to learn how to take care of yourself. Self care makes you a better social worker!