Student Opportunities
At Sheltering Arms, we are committed to helping develop future professionals. Continue reading to learn more about the opportunities available to students.

Student Observer

Individuals who require observation hours as an application prerequisite for a graduate program, or those who wish to learn more about a specific discipline.

Apply now

Therapy Clinical Rotations

Therapy clinical rotations for students currently enrolled in accredited graduate-level programs for physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and therapeutic recreation are offered through Sheltering Arms Institute. For more information, please click here.

Adaptive and Medical Fitness Internship Program

Sheltering Arms’ Medical and Adaptive Fitness Programs are led by American College of Sports Medicine certified exercise physiologists and are uniquely designed to ensure that physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle are within reach for everyone. We adapt exercise programs to the needs of individuals living with acute or chronic conditions, and those with both temporary and lifelong disabilities.

Interns will work one-on-one with their mentors and our team of exercise physiologists to conduct exercise programming, outcome assessments, and evidence-based exercise prescription. Interns will have the opportunity to observe and gain hands-on, practical experience with our clients and members in our land and aquatic-based programs.

Interns can expect to learn:

  • How to effectively program exercises for special populations, including, but not limited to, cardiac, neurologic, orthopedic, and cognitive conditions
  • Motivational interviewing, lifestyle management, goal setting, and coaching techniques
  • Pathophysiology of neurological conditions, including, but not limited to, stroke, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries
  • The essential role and value that fitness professionals bring to the continuum of care and preventive health initiatives
  • How to cultivate relationships with other health care providers and how to function as a member of a care team
  • Proper use and understanding of state-of-the-science technology intervention not commonly utilized by fitness professionals to maximize recovery

Desired candidate qualifications:

  • Scheduled to graduate with an Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, or Kinesiology undergraduate degree
  • Capstone internship requirement (240 hrs +)
  • Weekday availability 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
  • CPR certification
  • Interest in special populations
  • Plans to sit for nationally recognized fitness professional certification exam(s) (e.g., ACSM EP, NSCA CSCS)
  • Interest in pursuing a career as a certified fitness professional, medical fitness professional, physical or occupational therapist, or an exercise science master’s degree program
  • Personal values that include compassion, integrity, innovation, knowledge, leadership, and a genuine desire to help others

We are now accepting interns at the following locations:

Bon Air Clinic:
206 Twinridge Lane, Richmond, VA 23235

Hanover Clinic:
8826 Meadowbridge Road, Mechanicsville, VA 23116

Reynolds Clinic:
6627 West Broad Street, Suite 100, Richmond, VA 23230

 

To Apply:

Please submit an unofficial transcript and resume to [email protected].