From Intern to International Impact: Caroline Wheeler’s Journey Through Lake Country Medical Group

At Lake Country Medical Group, we take immense pride in investing in the next generation of medical professionals. Few stories embody that mission more fully than that of Caroline Wheeler.

Caroline began her journey with us in January of 2023 as an intern. At the time, she was a sophomore at the University of Georgia with no prior clinical experience, not even shadowing. Like many students entering the world of healthcare, she felt nervous and unsure on her first day. But what she found at Lake Country Medical Group was a community built on mentorship, learning, and encouragement.

Unlike traditional internships that often limit students to observing or administrative support, the internship program at Lake Country Medical Group immerses students directly into the clinical environment. Interns serve as medical scribes, becoming active members of the care team and contributing in meaningful ways. As Caroline describes it, “You’re not just watching the doctor or getting coffee. You’re learning, and your role matters.”

In her time as a medical scribe, Caroline quickly learned that the details she recorded directly impacted patient care, from medication accuracy to insurance documentation. She was entrusted with real responsibility and supported every step of the way. That empowerment continued when she transitioned into the role of medical assistant, gaining hands-on experience with EKGs, blood draws, manual blood pressures, and vital signs. She had the opportunity to observe patient progress over time, gaining exposure to labs, diagnostic imaging, and a wide range of medical procedures.

“What makes Lake Country so special is the way every staff member, from physicians to nurse practitioners to fellow interns, fosters a culture of curiosity,” she shared. “There’s no such thing as a dumb question. Everyone wants you to succeed.”

That supportive environment led Caroline to even more remarkable opportunities. With encouragement and guidance from Dr. Chronos and the team, she gained shadowing experience at Piedmont Atlanta in cardiothoracic surgery and at St. Mary’s in orthopedic surgery. She participated in research efforts, contributed to publications, and even secured a clinical research assistant role at Imperial College in London, all thanks to connections made through her time at Lake Country.

In addition to her clinical work, Caroline also became deeply involved in the Lake Country Rural Health Initiative, our nonprofit arm dedicated to expanding access to healthcare in underserved communities. The experience, she says, gave her a broader understanding of healthcare delivery and the impact medical professionals can have beyond the clinic walls.

This fall, Caroline will begin the next chapter of her journey at Mercer University’s Physician Assistant School in Atlanta. She credits Lake Country Medical Group as the foundation of her path: “I really don’t know where I would be without Lake Country. The amount you put in is what you get out. If you’re lucky enough to be part of this program, take full advantage. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Caroline’s story is one of growth, mentorship, and passion. It reflects what we strive to build every day at Lake Country Medical Group and through the Rural Health Initiative. We are proud of her journey and honored to have played a role in shaping her future in medicine.

Interested in Joining the Internship Program?
Learn more about what it means to intern at Lake Country Medical Group and how to apply:
  https://lakecountrymedicalgroup.com/about-us-healthcare-professionals/internships/

Support and Learn More About the Lake Country Rural Health Initiative
Discover how we are expanding access to quality care and empowering future healthcare professionals:
  https://lcruralhealth.org

Want to Hear Caroline Tell Her Story?
Watch the video below to hear Caroline share her experience in her own words.