Capstone Internship
Research Affiliate
For my capstone internship, I served as a Clinical Research Affiliate with Indiana University Health in a cardiology clinic setting. In this role, I worked directly alongside a physician and clinical research team to support patient-facing research encounters, informed consent, clinical data collection, and study documentation.
This experience allowed me to connect my Health Services Management coursework with real clinical research operations. I gained hands-on experience using the electronic medical record and REDCap, administering patient assessments, supporting AI-enabled data collection, and maintaining accurate, confidential research records. Through this internship, I developed a stronger understanding of how clinical research supports evidence-based care, patient outcomes, and healthcare decision-making.
Primary Responsibilities and Projects
During my capstone internship, I supported clinical research operations in a cardiology and cardio-oncology setting. My work focused on patient engagement, study documentation, clinical data collection, and research data management.
-
Patient-facing research encounters
I worked directly alongside a physician in a cardiology clinic, engaging with patients face-to-face during research visits and helping guide them through study-related activities. -
Informed consent and study communication
I obtained informed consent and supported patient understanding of study procedures, expectations, and participation requirements while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality. -
Clinical data collection and EMR review
I collected clinical, demographic, and visit-specific data from the electronic medical record and ensured that information was documented accurately for research use. -
Assessment administration and AI-enabled data collection
I facilitated in-clinic data collection using an iPad-based platform for AI-enabled facial and voice analysis. I also administered validated assessment tools, including the PHQ-9 and Fatigue Assessment Scale, during initial and follow-up visits. -
REDCap data management and quality control
I independently entered, managed, and maintained study data in REDCap while ensuring data accuracy, confidentiality, and regulatory compliance. I also supported validation efforts by comparing AI-derived fatigue and depression metrics with standardized clinical instruments.
Learning Objectives and Outcomes
During my capstone internship, I was expected to demonstrate professionalism, communicate effectively with patients and clinical team members, follow research procedures accurately, and manage study data with attention to detail. I met these expectations by supporting patient-facing research encounters, obtaining informed consent, collecting clinical and demographic data, administering study assessments, and maintaining accurate records in REDCap.
One of my main learning objectives was to better understand how clinical research operates within a real healthcare setting. Through this experience, I learned how research protocols, patient communication, data collection, and regulatory expectations all work together to support high-quality research. I also gained a stronger understanding of the importance of confidentiality, accuracy, and consistency when working with patient information and research data.
Another important outcome was the development of both technical and professional skills. Technically, I strengthened my experience with EMR review, REDCap data entry, PHQ-9 and Fatigue Assessment Scale administration, and AI-enabled data collection using an iPad-based platform. Professionally, I improved my communication, adaptability, confidence, and ability to work alongside physicians and clinical research staff in a patient-centered environment.
Overall, this internship helped me connect my Health Services Management coursework to real clinical research operations. It showed me how organized workflows, reliable data, and clear communication contribute to better research quality and healthcare decision-making. This experience confirmed my interest in pursuing a career that combines clinical research, healthcare operations, and data-informed leadership.