Summer Intern Spotlight: Madeline Williams

By: Ava Aversa ‘26, student correspondent 

As an intern for The Office of Refugees Child and Youth Programming, Madeline Williams ‘25, spent her two months this summer leading youth programming for a diverse clientele of refugee children, and helping them adjust to their new lives in the United States.  

Williams, a rising senior, lives in Wall Township, New Jersey. The psychology and philosophy double major, with a concentration of lifespan development, shares her on-the-job Royal Experience from June 10 to Aug. 10.

Describe a typical day at work. 

“On the days where we host the children for summer programming, I begin the day by checking in with my supervisor. I inform the other interns and volunteers about the itinerary for the day, and we head over to the youth programming building. There, I lead activities with the children where they learn to play and communicate appropriately, discuss their transition to the United States, and gain a positive outlook on themselves and their changing lives. Some days, we take the children on field trips to museums, zoos, or parks, and we have special guests come in to talk to the children about their experiences as refugees. At the end of the day, we discuss how the day went, individual clients and their progress, and our plans for the next day of programming.”

What are some skills you have learned?  

“So far, I have improved my ability to communicate effectively with children who have experienced trauma. I have also learned more about how to speak with adult clients in both Spanish and English. My supervisor has also taught me so much about team development and leadership.”

What do you enjoy most about your job?

“I most enjoy working with the children at the summer programming events. Many of them have gone through unspeakable trauma, and I am honored to be able to play a role in helping them adjust to their new lives in the United States. Despite their struggles, the children I work with are kind, sweet, and hand-working, and I am so inspired by their resilience every day.”

What was your expectation going into the job? Does it match the reality?  

“Going into my role as an intern with CWS, I expected to have some face-to-face interaction with clients, and have some behind-the-scenes tasks as well. This has matched my reality so far. However, as I gain more experience and responsibility, I have gotten more and more quality time with clients, which I am very grateful for!”

How do you feel that this job has prepared you for the real world?

“I believe that this internship has prepared me for a career working with children. I have met so many different clients from many different backgrounds, countries, and experiences, and this has shown me that I am capable working with a diverse clientele. This internship has also shown me how privileged I and many of those around me are, and this experience has inspired me to continue working to help those who are less fortunate than I am.”