Meet Our Interns

"We offer internships to allow students an opportunity to gain valuable work experience, develop skills and explore a career path that interests them. We hold our interns to a high standard so they can grow into young working professionals. Their work and support on multiple projects ultimately benefit the productivity of many departments within the Department of State Health Services. We believe teamwork makes the dream work; because of this, we allow our interns to work closely with our own team members and take on special projects that leverage our resources."

Lena-Melianne Star
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, Finance
Texas Tech University, 2023
Spring 2024

“I found DSHS particularly appealing. Its focus on fiscal responsibility aligns with my commitment to meticulous financial and data analysis while offering me unique lens into diverse public health domains. Joining DSHS does not only provide a strong foundation but also allow me to contribute to the organization’s mission statement through my analytical skills and dedication.” - Lena

Greeshma Bandla
Master of Health Informatics
University of North Texas, 2024
Spring 2024

Greetings! My name is Greeshma Bandla, and I recently graduated with a master’s in health informatics from the University of North Texas in May 2024. Originally from India, my journey into the field of health informatics was shaped by a profound sense of its importance during the COVID-19 pandemic. As I witnessed the crucial role of health informatics in ensuring optimal patient outcomes and the intersection of technology in healthcare, my interest deepened. To further explore this field, I undertook a data analyst internship in India, refining my skills and gaining valuable insights. Now, I am eager to delve into the intricacies of the U.S. healthcare system and understand how health informatics functions in this dynamic environment.

“Through this role, I aim to leverage my academic knowledge and practical experience to navigate the complexities of the U.S. healthcare landscape and contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of health information systems. I am excited about the opportunities ahead and the potential impact I can make in this field. “- Greeshma

Leanna Nessim
Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management
Texas State University
Spring 2024

Hello! I am Leanna Nessim, a recent graduate at Texas State University studying Health Information Management and Health Informatics, who is passionate about improving business outcomes with understanding operations and work- flow processes. I’m excited to learn from the FSO department and DSHS.

Ifetayo OlaJide
Bachelor of Science, Public Health
University of Texas Arlington
Fall 2024

I am passionate about improving community health through advocacy and research. I am currently working on developing a health awareness campaign to advocate for better access to healthcare services. A fun fact about me is that I love cooking. I recently took up the hobby of baking.

 I enjoy experimenting with different recipes and flavors. I recently made a delicious batch of chocolate chip cookies that everyone loved.

Karim Iqbal
MS Data Analytics and Research
University of Texas at Dallas
Summer 2024

Iqbal is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Data Analytics and Research at the University of Texas at Dallas. He is deeply interested in leveraging his data analytics, research, and project management skills within the public health sector. His commitment to integrating sophisticated data analysis with public health initiatives positions him as an emerging leader in the field, poised to deliver significant contributions through data-driven innovations. Outside of his professional interests, Karim has a passion for traveling, following and playing cricket and soccer, and indulging in a good book during his free time.

Jermaine Gilbert
Masters in Health Information Managment
Texas State University
Summer 2024

My name is Jermaine Gilbert, and I am a Navy veteran. I am eager to learn more about data analysis and risk assessment processes to help further my understanding. My goal for the internship is to gain applicable skills in management processes of financial analysis as well as a better understanding of risk assessment and applying the knowledge gained from my master's program.

Kritika Ramesh
Bachelor of Science and Arts, Neuroscience
University of Texas at Austin
Summer 2024

Kritika Ramesh is a student at the University of Texas at Austin pursuing a BSA Neuroscience degree in the Health Science Scholars Honors Program. With a deep-seated passion for advancing women's health, Kritika is committed to contributing to impactful health policies that ensure comprehensive and equitable healthcare. Her passions for business and community engagement enable her to approach health challenges with innovative solutions. Aspiring to be a transformative healthcare leader, Kritika is excited to bring her skills and passion to the Texas DSHS team, driving positive change in the realm of health services and medicine.