The School of Behavioral Sciences at California Baptist University recognizes the importance of internships, which is why the school offers credit for some.
Christian Encounters Ministries is a 24-hour, residential, discipleship and counseling ministry center for people, ages 16-25, who are dealing with issues such as grief, anger, depression, abandonment and abuse. They voluntarily come to CEM to seek help and guidance, which is where CBU students play a role.
Mark Andrews, the minister of discipleship and intern at CEM, explained interns will serve and minister to those who come hurting.
Each intern disciples one to three students, supervises them and performs daily assignments that include practical activities such as cooking, cleaning and various maintenance tasks on the 82- acre campus in Grass Valley, California. Recreational activities are also offered.
Dr. Veola Vazquez, associate dean for the School of Behavioral Sciences and associate professor of psychology, explained why she thinks this internship is a great opportunity.
“You’re getting hands-on experience on a daily basis,” Vazquez said. “It’s different than a typical internship where you go and might work four hours one day and four the next day. This is a live-in position and interns will not only deal with the emotional and psychological needs of the students at CEM, but also their spiritual needs.”
