Internship Location: Remote
Organization Type: Private Sector
Policy Areas: Health and Law
During my internship at SullivanCotter as a Physician Compensation Consulting Intern, I gained an in-depth understanding of how healthcare organizations structure and benchmark physician pay. I learned how market surveys, regulatory requirements, and strategic priorities all influence compensation models, and I had the opportunity to apply this knowledge to real client projects. The quantitative and analytical skills I’ve been developing at the La Follette School were directly applicable—particularly my ability to work with large datasets, interpret statistical patterns, and clearly present findings. My training in policy analysis also helped me connect data to its broader context, especially when considering how regulations and market dynamics shape compensation decisions. One thing that surprised me was how much of the consulting process depends on clear communication and trust-building. While I expected the work to be heavily data-driven, I saw firsthand that client relationships, clear messaging, and the ability to translate technical results into actionable recommendations are just as important as the analysis itself. The most valuable part of my internship was working directly with real client data and seeing how small details—like ensuring the accuracy of a single figure—can have a significant impact on strategic decisions. The mentorship I received from my team also gave me insight into how experienced consultants approach complex challenges. I would absolutely recommend this internship to future students. It offers the chance to work at the intersection of data analysis, healthcare policy, and organizational strategy, all within a collaborative, supportive environment. This experience has shaped how I think about my future career by confirming my interest in roles that combine quantitative analysis with strategic advising. I now have a clearer picture of how I can apply my policy and data skills in the healthcare consulting field, and I’m excited to continue building expertise in this space.