Scholarship Helps Asamoah Build Skills, Refine Interests

For Grace Torto Asamoah ’26, a non-traditional senior from Kumasi, Ghana, opportunity came in the form of a local internship – and a scholarship that made it possible.

The public health major and health care administration minor interned with the New York State Department of Health’s Oneonta office this past fall, an experience that not only strengthened her skills and complemented her education but reshaped her career goals.

Initially interested in epidemiology, Asamoah’s experience sparked a new passion. She now plans to pursue a graduate degree in public health, where she hopes to continue building on what she’s learned.

“I wanted to learn more about the different aspects,” Asamoah said. “Since starting the internship, I have more of an interest in environmental health, but I’ve always had a passion to improve community health.”

Through her work at the Department of Health, Asamoah has developed skills in time management, document organization and interdepartmental communication. She said she’s also learned to appreciate the “behind-the-scenes” efforts that keep public health systems running smoothly.

Her internship, which began over the summer, was so successful that the office extended it into the fall. The experience was supported by the Real World Experience Fund, which covered her transportation and living expenses, allowing her to focus fully on learning and contributing to the department’s work.

“If not for the College’s support, I would have had to limit my hours or take on additional work,” she said. “The scholarship gave me the freedom to fully engage and grow.”

Since its launch, the Real World Experience Fund has supported 26 Hartwick students, offering between $200 and $2,500 to help cover expenses tied to internships, fellowships or research opportunities. Administered by the Office of Career Development & Network Engagement, the donor-funded program helps students like Asamoah turn academic interests into real-world
impact.

In Asamoah’s case, the experience was far more impactful than she anticipated. As a result, she encourages other students to keep an open mind as they evaluate their options.

“Be open to every opportunity,” she advised. “Don’t set your expectations in a very narrow way. Administrative and support roles may not seem glamorous, but they’re essential and very much appreciated.”