Ruth Hamilton & the Make a Difference Internship Fund
Empowering Students to Secure Internships
Ruth Hamilton has been the face of the Graham Center at FIU for more than three decades. Eventually making her way to the executive director position, Hamilton was able to turn the Graham Center, formerly University House, into the student life hub we know today. In her words – “it is not only a vibrant place that exudes energy and optimism; it hosts numerous programs that promote FIU’s academic goals and celebrates the various cultures of our University community, as well as appreciation and understanding for our uniqueness and differences.”
But as proud as Hamilton is about this accomplishment, her true passion, and the fuel for her FIU career, has always been helping students succeed in their academic pursuits by providing them with the tools and experiences necessary to tackle the challenges of the 21st century. “FIU offers a creative environment with diverse opportunities for those who wish to seize them. At FIU, I always felt that I could make a difference,” she said.
Just after retiring in mid 2014, Hamilton had already conceived a plan to continue doing what she does best – helping students. A commitment of $150,000 established the Ruth Hamilton Make A Difference Internship Fund, which will assist students with the financial difficulties they may face in their pursuit of internships.
“Many of our students go through tremendous sacrifices to obtain their degree, and are unable to accept internships due to financial constraints. Internships give our students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in various management aspects of an organization and work alongside experienced professionals,” Hamilton said.
Students with internships also make a quicker transition from college to career and are more likely to receive a job offer when they graduate, with 60 percent of paid interns receiving job offers, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Now, through Hamilton’s gift, FIU can further support student internships.
“This fund will help propel students into the workforce and help them achieve their dreams when they may not otherwise have the opportunity to do so,” said Tomas Alcala, who will graduate this year with a bachelor’s in communication arts. “The internship [I obtained because of the Make A Difference Internship Fund] is great for my future. It’s more interactive and hands-on than my previous work experience.”
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