Cinthya Maldonado ’23, a psychology major from Miami, Fla., recently spent three weeks at the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Carbone Cancer Clinic, where she shadowed doctors in the oncology, radiology and neurology departments and the intensive care unit. The experience gave her first-hand understanding of how science and medicine intersect.

“By shadowing doctors in clinical practice and participating in both in- and outpatient grand rounds and case conferences, I learned a lot about the various options available in the medical field,” wrote Maldonado in a grant report about her experience. She’s currently looking at pursuing a master’s degree in public health and a career in medicine. “I also observed how doctors interacted with patients, diagnosed and treated illnesses, and worked with other healthcare professionals.”

Maldonado was one of 20 Williams students and recent graduates to be awarded Class of 1968 Career Explorer grants supporting a range of short-term learning experiences over the summer. Offered exclusively for summer 2023 by the Class of ’68 in celebration of its 55th reunion year, the special, one-time grants provided up to $2,000 for internships and job-shadowing opportunities. Participants also used the grants to attend skill-based bootcamps and career-related conferences, and to work on independent research.

Participants held internships at Brooklyn Poets—a nonprofit organization focused on cultivating poetry through open mic nights, classes and mentorship—and at the U.N. Temple of Understanding, a non-governmental organization that consults with the U.N. Other grant recipients participated in choral conducting master classes at Georgia State University and the Eastman School of Music and attended the International Conference on Economics and Management and the Uncertainty in Artificial Intelligence Conference.

Oscar Nobel ’25 used his grant to join some 250 campus representatives at the 2023 American Jewish Committee Global Forum in Tel Aviv, Israel. “As a political science student with an interest in this region, this experience has furthered my desire to continue learning and researching [Israel’s] fascinating history,” Nobel noted in a report to the career center about his experience. “I learned an incredible amount about the politics of the region and the players involved, and even made some noteworthy connections such as with a former Knesset member.”

One hundred thirty-three students and recent graduates applied for the grants, from which 20 were selected.  Applicants explained how their request will help them explore either a career path they’re already pursuing, or one they are exploring for the first time. They also provided an itemized list of expenses and a detailed budget. A committee of ’68 Center staff reviewed all submissions and made decisions based on the quality of the application and availability of funds. 

“We were overjoyed by students’ interest in this special program,” says Don Kjelleren, executive director of the ‘68 Center for Career Exploration. “We’re grateful to the Class of 1968 for their support of this program and the Career Center’s other career exploration programs, which allow students access to a range of professional experiences they might not otherwise have.”

Learn more about Williams’ experiential career learning opportunities.