Internships, Maymester and Study Abroad: Life-Changing Experiences Through Your Support
Hallmark Programming Continued
Internships and international immersion through study abroad and Maymester programs are key experiences for many Holy Cross students, past and present. These programs can only continue thanks to gracious support from you.
Through these programs, Holy Cross students have immersed themselves in the cultures of countries ranging from Jordan to Brazil and Italy, and interned with companies and organizations that can help them blaze a path to their professional career.
We are profoundly grateful to those alumni, parents and friends who have supported the Internships, Study Abroad and Semester Away programs, including significant support from:
- Michelle C. and Robert G. Atchinson P05
- Judith L. and James T. Beale, Jr. '65 P91
- Margaret McCloskey Connelly '84 P15,14,12
- William J. Gilmartin '71
- Anne S. Hildreth '02
- Diane S. and Robert J. Hildreth P02
- Kenrose Kitchen Table Foundation
- Janice and William F. McCall, Jr. '55 P90, 90, 89
- Robert J. McKay '55
- National Fisheries Institute
- Jennifer M. and Sean J. O'Scannlain '86 P24, 22
This year, you added incredible depth and context to the collegiate experiences of 155 students by enabling their participation in these high-impact practices. Through these opportunities, our students built connections, skills, and confidence in themselves and the direction in which they will apply their talents. As we strive to foster personal development, encourage curiosity and connect the classroom to the workplace, we are blessed by a community of supporters who fortify our efforts.
Julie Draczynski '99, Director of Employer Engagement, Center for Career Development
Holy Cross Leadership Council
On March 11, 2025, the Holy Cross Leadership Council (formerly the New York Leadership Council) held a dinner at 583 Park in New York City to benefit the Crusader Internship Fund. The incredible support demonstrated by our community signifies their belief in the importance of experiential learning and working opportunities for our students.
Crusader Internship Fund
As our bright and curious students prepare themselves for their professional and post-graduate goals, internships provide pivotal experiences that increase their readiness and marketability. These opportunities immerse our students in environments where they can contextually apply their classroom knowledge and build upon other complementary skills that are necessary for lifelong success.
In the instances where internships are unpaid, critical funding from the Crusader Internship Fund ensures that students aren't made to choose between earning income and these transformative opportunities. With your support, 155 students were able to partake in these enriching experiences and further prepare themselves for life beyond The Hill.
Student Stories
Erin Donahue '26 interned with WICN Public Radio thanks to support from James D. Power III '53 P93 † and family through the Kenrose Kitchen Table Foundation, while Kai James Smith '27 interned with Viscogliosi Brother LLC thanks to support from the Holy Cross Leadership Council.
"My internship experience is surpassing my expectations and has taught me what it is like to work in the finance industry. I have been challenged in many different aspects and have grown more than I thought. I have also developed my skills substantially and I am grateful for this opportunity to learn."
"I've gotten the chance to do more graphic design, learn about and use the recording studio, and use apps and programs that help the nonprofit organization run. Overall, I have definitely seen development towards my career and have practiced communication and critical thinking in settings that I otherwise wouldn't have had the opportunity to do."
Washington Semester Program
This year, 36 students (17 in the fall; 19 in the spring) took part in highly sought-after internships and conducted research in the bustle of our nation’s capital during the Washington Semester Program. Through robust internships and immersion in the culture and vibrancy of Washington, D.C., students honed the invaluable skills of multi-tasking, organization, time management and communication.
Professor Chris Murray's presence in Washington, D.C. continues to provide immeasurable value to our program. He orients students and parents to the program, provides students with a multitude of opportunities to immerse themselves into the community and connect with alumni and nurtures a continuity of Jesuit traditions while students are away from campus. In addition to leading and mentoring students, Chris' diligence in fostering relationships with area alumni and friends has created and sustained a multitude of opportunities. With Chris' efforts, former Washington Semester participants have become hosts for current students at competitive sites such as the Alaska Wilderness League, the Superior Court in D.C., and the American Enterprise Institute.
My experiences in Washington, D.C., were life changing, both in relation to my personal development and my discernment of future careers. I interned for the U.S. Senate, which opened several doors for me. Not only are the people from my office committed to helping me find internships and jobs in the future, but I got to see firsthand what working for the government is like.
Seneca Baldi '26
Study Abroad and Maymester
International immersion continues to be a hallmark of the Holy Cross experience for hundreds of students annually, and our programs are getting better. The Office of Study Abroad worked diligently to grow the global ambassador program, bring onsite directors to campus and expose students in language classes to immersion opportunities.
- 337 Students participated in both semester and year-long study abroad programs
- 18% Growth in study abroad participation from the previous year
- 62 Students participated in Maymester programs in locations including Brazil, France, India and Italy
Views from Venice
Professor and Chair of the Department of Visual Arts at Holy Cross David Karmon lead students during a Maymester in Venice, Italy between May 20 and 30, 2025.
