Aimee Do is a third-year Biomedical Science (Pharmacology) student at UWA who has been nominated for a McCusker Centre for Citizenship Outstanding Intern Award for her efforts supporting diabetes research with the Telethon Kids Institute.
“The most rewarding element of my internship was being able to actively contribute to improving diabetes management,” Aimee said.
“This is an area of healthcare I find very interesting, and it was very exciting to work with a diverse team who I learnt a lot from.
“I helped to create surveys that will be administered to families; these surveys aimed to provide an insight on the current hypoglycaemia treatment for children with Type 1 diabetes, and enhance our comprehension of their lives, including their diabetes management and broader experiences.”
Aimee’s internship role with the Children's Diabetes Centre at the Telethon Kids Institute supported the Hypoglycaemia project and saw her working on surveys and a literature review.
Dr Wendy Chan She Ping-Delfos, Project Manager and internship supervisor, said Aimee’s nomination for the Award acknowledged her outstanding work.
“Aimee’s main role was to create surveys on REDCap [a digital platform used for clinical research],” Dr Chan She Ping-Delfos said.
“Prior to joining the team, Aimee has had no experience with REDcap; she learned the ins and outs of the platform and created the surveys within the first couple of days of her internship - an achievement that blew the team away.
“Aimee led consultations with nurses and endocrinologists to refine the surveys.
As a result of her prompt delivery of the surveys, Aimee was able to assist with another project, a thorough literature review on oral insulin which she presented to the principal investigator,” she said.
“Aimee's prompt delivery of the surveys means that the project can start on time... The information gathered will contribute to improvement in patients' model of care.”
Image: Dr Mary Abraham with Aimee Do at Perth Children's Hospital
Aimee said that, as well as giving her the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to public health, the internship experience had been valuable for her own development.
“The opportunity to learn, grow and contribute within a supportive environment was insightful and memorable.
“Through the internship I met a wide range of new people, and developed valuable skills in communication, collaboration and problem-solving.
“I am thankful for the people who have helped me during this journey who provided me with guidance and mentorship, including my supervisor, Wendy.”