The Sanibel Symposium Internship Program: Shaping the Future of Perfusion
By Amy Jones (Associate Manager of Credentialing) and Lauren Rajwillis (People Operations Partner)
The Sanibel Internship Program is more than just an internship—it is a gateway to the world of perfusion. This unique opportunity allows students to engage with top professionals, gain invaluable hands-on experience, and stay at the forefront of advancements in the field. As part of one of the most prestigious perfusion conferences, interns not only observe but actively contribute, building connections and skills that will shape their future careers.
Why Sanibel Symposium Started the Internship Program
Recognizing the importance of nurturing the next generation of perfusionists, the Sanibel Committee launched the internship program to bring fresh energy and innovative ideas into the symposium. This initiative allows students to immerse themselves in a world-class learning environment, where they gain direct access to industry leaders, cutting-edge technology, and career-building networking opportunities.
A Day in the Life of a Sanibel Intern
Sanibel interns play a key role in the symposium, gaining firsthand experience in event operations, industry networking, and professional development. From the moment they arrive, interns are fully immersed in the fast-paced environment, assisting with registration, guiding attendees, and ensuring smooth transitions between sessions. They are also responsible for moderating speaker presentations, both in-person and online, facilitating discussions, and relaying audience questions to ensure an engaging experience for all participants.
Beyond these logistical roles, interns gain hands-on exposure to the perfusion industry. They work closely with vendors, learning about the latest technological advancements and understanding how different companies contribute to the field. One of the most exciting aspects of the internship is the opportunity to handle cutting-edge perfusion devices under the guidance of experienced professionals. This real-world training transforms textbook knowledge into practical expertise, giving interns an edge as they prepare for their careers.
A Global Internship Experience That Stands Out
The Sanibel Internship Program is unlike any other, offering a truly international perspective on perfusion. Each year, the symposium attracts top speakers and attendees from around the world, and the internship reflects this diversity. In 2024, we had interns hailing from the UK and Ireland. This year, our reach has expanded to also include applicants from Pakistan, Kenya, and Germany, creating a rich exchange of ideas and practices.
This global approach has positioned the Sanibel Symposium as a premier hub for perfusion education. Interns gain insights into how the profession is practiced in different regions, fostering a deeper understanding of the field. For example, while students in the U.S. apply to perfusion schools before entering the field, in some countries, they are hired first and then trained. By embracing international interns, the Sanibel Symposium is strengthening the global perfusion community and expanding opportunities for the next generation of professionals.
Exciting Changes for Sanibel Symposium 2025
One of the key additions this year is the introduction of intern-vendor rotations, providing interns with the chance to work directly with different vendors and gain invaluable industry knowledge throughout the symposium. Another particularly exciting milestone is the return of a former intern as a featured student speaker, demonstrating the long-term impact of the program. Additionally, for the first time ever, the Sanibel Symposium will host the Perfusion Program Director Council, an initiative aimed at standardizing perfusion education across institutions. Interactive learning opportunities, including essay-based contests, will further enhance the experience, making it both engaging and rewarding.
Looking to the Future
As we look ahead, our vision for the Sanibel Internship Program is to establish it as the premier opportunity for aspiring perfusionists worldwide. We are dedicated to expanding mentorship opportunities by collaborating with more vendors who can provide interns with direct industry experience. Strengthening our alumni network is another key priority, ensuring that past interns stay connected and continue to support the next generation of participants. Additionally, we are committed to refining the application process, particularly for international interns, to make participation more accessible and seamless.
Sanibel Symposium 2025 promises to bring renewed energy and innovation to the program. As we prepare for this exciting event, we are also looking ahead to 2026, which will mark the 15th anniversary of Sanibel. This milestone represents a unique opportunity to further elevate the symposium and internship experience. Each year, we strive to enhance the program, ensuring that students gain the knowledge, skills, and connections they need to thrive in the field of perfusion.
How to Apply & Stand Out
If you’re a perfusion student eager to join the 2026 Sanibel Internship Program, now is the time to start preparing. Applications open in August and close in December, so submitting early is crucial. This is more than just a standard internship—the Sanibel Symposium is looking for students who bring leadership, intellectual curiosity, and a genuine drive to grow within the profession. Strong academics are important, but what truly sets candidates apart is their passion for contributing to the perfusion community and their readiness to embrace hands-on learning.
Equally important is the ability to adapt to high-pressure environments, a skill that is essential for perfusionists given the critical nature of the profession. The symposium is fast-paced, and interns must be prepared to manage multiple responsibilities effectively. Those who embrace this challenge will leave with invaluable experience and connections that can shape the course of their careers, equipping them with the resilience and decision-making abilities required in high-stakes medical settings.
Sanibel Symposium: Where Education Meets Opportunity
As the Sanibel Internship Program continues to grow, it remains committed to shaping the future of perfusion by providing students with unparalleled learning experiences, hands-on training, and invaluable professional connections. Whether you’re looking to gain exposure to industry leaders, refine your skills, or expand your global perspective, this program offers an opportunity like no other. Don’t just prepare for a career in perfusion—take the first step toward becoming a leader in the field.
Experience the Sanibel Symposium 2025, where top experts, the latest innovations, and a passionate community come together to shape the future of perfusion. Register now to secure your spot!
About Amy Jones
Amy Jones is the Associate Manager of Credentialing for Epic Specialty Services-Cardiovascular where she credentials Perfusionists, ECMO Specialists, and Autotransfusionists throughout the country. With more than 10 Years of experience in the Credentialing field, she brings a wealth of expertise in Healthcare Administration in the field of Health Information and Credentialing for both a staffing company and the hospital credentialing process.
Outside of Amy’s professional endeavors, she is passionate about her family. Amy has been married to her husband Daniel for 11 years; they have two small children, ages 7 and 3. She enjoys being outside and hanging out with friends and family. Recently, she has rekindled her passion for running, setting a goal to get back into racing. In her downtime, Amy enjoys listening to a good True Crime podcast, with her favorite being Crime Junkies.
About Lauren Rajwillis
Lauren Rajwillis is a People Operations Partner at Epic Specialty Services, where she works across Epic Cardiovascular, Epic Government, and Epic Diagnostics and Imaging. With over 12 years of experience in Human Resources, Lauren has had the opportunity to support businesses in their growth by focusing on employee relations, HRIS, and organizational development. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to creating positive, supportive work environments that empower employees to thrive and reach their full potential, contributing to both individual and business success.
Passionate about staying at the forefront of the evolving HR landscape, she is committed to continually expanding her knowledge and expertise. Her focus is on addressing the dynamic challenges in talent management, employee development, and building strong organizational cultures. Outside of her professional life, Lauren is a proud mother of two children. Her family enjoys exploring new places, embracing different cultures, and appreciating the beauty of rural landscapes.
