Embracing Growth: My Transformative Summer as a Public Health Intern with Raíces

Another Reflection on Interning at Raices

Article Author: Gerard Lapuente from Raices Foundation

As Gerard Lapuente closes another successful summer with the Raices Foundation, he reflects on the incredible adventure he's taken. With this, marking his second year with the foundation, he has grown, faced challenges while juggling other opportunities to learn and create a meaningful impact on others. This summer, he has helped create two new initiatives, addressing mental health and financial aid. Gerard has been able to sharpen his professional skills while keeping calm. Once again, he feels blessed to contribute to this organization, aiming to demonstrate community engagement and love.

My Experience

What drew me to this organization again was not just its mission, but its heart. Raíces was born from a deeply personal story—Astrid’s mother, Yolanda, survived sarcoma cancer, and this organization was created as a way to spread love, faith, and hope. Seeing faith used as a tool for healing and kindness resonated with me, and I knew that this was a place where my efforts could make a difference.

What I've Been Doing

This summer, I worked on several projects that I am incredibly proud of. I managed our website and Instagram, developed a scholarship program for students at my high school alma mater, and created a digital wellness toolbox—an accessible collection of mental and physical health resources for communities that need them most. Alongside these projects, I redesigned parts of our website to make our programs clearer and more inviting, and I loved creating Instagram graphics that combine important information with a touch of creativity.

But this summer wasn’t without its challenges. Between this internship, my independent research at Pomona College, another fellowship, and navigating personal struggles—including my family’s housing crisis—I had to learn how to truly manage my time and take care of myself. What I discovered was that even during the busiest and hardest times, meaningful work can give you purpose and strength.

Final Reflections for the Summer

My time with Raíces has taught me that wellness is not just about individual health—it’s about community, connection, and compassion. It has also shown me that small efforts can lead to real change. As I continue on my journey to becoming a physician-scientist and mental health advocate, I will carry these lessons with me. I am so grateful for the opportunity to grow alongside Raíces and contribute to its mission.

To everyone who supports Raíces: thank you. Your belief in this work allows us to keep planting seeds of hope, one project at a time.

Thank you for following my journey—stay tuned for what’s next!

More Information on Gerard:

www.linkedin.com/in/gerard-lapuente