Kelsey Walsh has been a full-time graduate intern at FIUTS since July, and today is her last day with us! We're so grateful for her dedication and for everything she has contributed during her time as part of our staff team. Here are some of Kelsey's reflections on her experience with FIUTS. We'll miss you, Kelsey!

Kelsey (second from left) and other members of the FIUTS team with Dubs!

For the past six months I have had the incredible opportunity to complete my graduate student internship at FIUTS. I am currently in my second year of graduate studies at SIT Graduate Institute studying International Education. As part of SIT's commitment to experiential learning, every student must complete a relevant practicum in the field of International Education.

I knew that FIUTS would be the perfect fit for me almost immediately. Not only was I interested in working with international students in the US through intercultural programs, but I had completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Washington and was thrilled with the idea of being back on campus!

I really wanted to develop my skills in facilitating, training, creative project planning and intercultural communication. Working at FIUTS, I was able to do all this and more. I had the chance to guide international and local youth with SLCI, hone my event planning skills through UW International Student Orientation, design and implement FIUTS Connections for UW domestic and International students, and have conversations with students from all over the world daily in the FIUTS office.

I cannot imagine having found a more fulfilling practicum experience. I am so thankful to the FIUTS staff for welcoming me to the family and to all the inspiring, insightful and amazing students who participate in FIUTS programs. This internship has been challenging and rewarding in ways I never could have imagined!

~ Kelsey Walsh