Each year, 70 percent of Rhodes students complete at least one internship. This summer, Rhodes psychology majors Sudiksha Polasa ’25 and Julia Schuetze ’26 are among 92 college students from across the nation who will be applying their classroom knowledge while gaining work experience through an internship with Youth Villages. Polasa, from Collierville, TN, graduated from Rhodes this past May, and Schuetze, who is from Austin, TX, is a rising senior.
Youth Villages is a national leader in mental and behavioral health committed to finding the most effective solutions to help children, families, and young adults overcome obstacles and live successfully. Its summer internship program is highly competitive within the field and had more than 950 applications for its 2025 program.
"This incredible group brings fresh perspectives, energy and compassion that will leave a lasting impact on those we serve at Youth Villages," said Luke Self, managing director of recruiting for Youth Villages. "We’re excited for the growth they’ll experience as they build skills and deepen their understanding of behavioral health."
Polasa and Schuetze will gain hands-on experience working with youth ages 6 to 17 by assisting them with the positive development and implementation of individual goals, planning and leading recreational activities, and being positive role models in demonstrating a healthy and wholesome approach to life.
Learn more about internship opportunities at Rhodes.