Our panel presents diverse summer internship experiences that fostered personal growth and professional development. One member worked at the Henry Sheldon Museum, engaging in collections management and educational programming, enhancing their understanding of art history through practical application. Another speaker at GirlForward facilitated ESL classes for refugee and immigrant girls, discovering that interactive methods like games and storytelling significantly increased student engagement. A therapeutic assistant intern at a pediatric clinic collaborated with a licensed social worker and therapists, providing individualized support to neurodiverse children and learning the importance of adaptability in challenging environments. Lastly, a member at a rehabilitation hospital for children with autism developed communication techniques and gained insights into cultural diversity while assessing and guiding children’s rehabilitation efforts. Collectively, these experiences highlight the integration of local and global perspectives, essential skills for life beyond Mount Holyoke College.

Autism Rehabilitation Assistant for Children
Kara Jing ’26, Psychology major

Amazing Summer at GirlForward
Sumaiya Jahan ’25, Psychology & Sociology double major/Cognitive Neuroscience minor

Reframing the Classroom: Affirmative Education for Neurodivergent Youth
Kai Grunsten ’25, Psychology and English double major

I Became Mothman
Zora Duquette-Hoffman ’26, Art History major & French minor & Museums, Archives, and Public Histories