Medical Students for Choice Intern

In Summer 2025, Nicole, a fourth-year medical student, completed her Medical Students for Choice Clinical Internship at Choices Women’s Medical Center under the supervision of Dr. Joseph Ottolenghi.

Why did you select CHOICES for an internship and how did you find us?

“I chose CHOICES as my first clinical internship because, as an aspiring OB/GYN, I wanted meaningful exposure to women’s reproductive health early in my training.

I first learned about CHOICES through Medical Students for Choice, where it came highly recommended by both the organization and colleagues.”

Can you speak to the prevalence of abortion training programs for medical students and clinical interns either in the U.S. or internationally?

“During my medical school experience abroad, there was limited emphasis on abortion care and contraceptive counseling.

This gap in training was one of the reasons I sought out this internship. I wanted to strengthen my knowledge and skills in abortion care and contraception, subjects that are vital for all medical students to learn.”

With Dobbs’ ruling in 2022 overturning Roe v. Wade and leading to an insurgence of abortion bans, what do you appreciate most about the work we do at CHOICES and the patients we serve?

“What I appreciate most about the work done at CHOICES and the patients you serve is that this clinic offers a safe haven for women who could be vulnerable and are seeking care.”

Were there any projects or tasks that stood out as particularly valuable or impactful to you?

“During this training, Dr. Ottolenghi provided ample opportunities for me to interpret ultrasound images and to perform scans during procedures.

I found this especially meaningful because ultrasound is a tool I will rely on frequently throughout my career.”

What will you remember most about your time here at CHOICES?

“Working with Dr, Ottolenghi not only strengthened my medical knowledge but has also showed me what it means to practice with genuine compassion and deep respect for his patients, which are qualities I hope to emulate throughout my own career.”