HDI Student Program

Here at HDI, one of our strategic goals is to deliver applied educational experiences that advance health equity and enhance critical consciousness amongst learners at all levels. We are passionate about providing undergraduate and graduate students alike with opportunities to contribute to HDI’s work across the state and be valued members of our team.

What you will learn:

Former HDI Student Intern, Shay Anderson, tabling at the CT State Capitol Building for Health Equity Week

As an HDI Fellow or Intern, you can expect to learn about and gain practice in any of
the following areas:

  • Health equity and social justice praxis
  • Quantitative and/or qualitative research methods
  • Approaches and methods for translation of research to action
  • Policy advocacy strategies
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration in the implementation of research or program agendas
  • Effective, high-impact dissemination and written communication strategies to reach a variety of audiences

Have any questions about HDI’s Student Program? Feel free to contact HDI’s Administrative Director, Melanie Rocco, at mrocco@uchc.edu.

Looking for a paid, academic year-long position at HDI?

Apply to become an HDI Health Equity Fellow! As a Fellow, you’ll be required to dedicate at least 10 hours per week throughout the full academic year. Fellowships are paid positions and open to undergraduate and graduate students. Because fellowships are for the full academic year, applications are reviewed and interviews are conducted during the Summer ahead of the next academic year.

Looking for a semester- or academic year-long internship at HDI?

Apply to become an HDI Intern! Internships are available for undergraduate or graduate students who are interested in working at HDI for program or course credit, such as for an independent study or practicum. Internships can be for the entirety of the academic year, or for the Fall, Spring, or Summer semesters. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Hear from past HDI Health Equity Fellows and Interns!

Matt Headshot

Matt Chen, UConn '24 M.A. Communication - Communications Intern

"My time at HDI was an invaluable learning experience. HDI provided me with the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. I was able to work with incredible and passionate faculty and staff to contribute meaningful work that advance health equity and help promote the institute's mission to others."

Cindy Headshot

Cindy Pan, UConn '24 MPH - Research Fellow

"During my internship at HDI, I gained invaluable experience in addressing public health challenges through both research and community engagement. Under the guidance of HDI’s dedicated faculty and staff, I contributed to a variety of projects tailored to my interests, which enhanced my skills and deepened my understanding of health equity. HDI’s extensive network and its legacy of excellence also provided me unique opportunities to connect and collaborate with non-profits, researchers, policymakers, and more in CT and beyond."