This summer, the Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute (ADAI) launched a new eight-week internship program for UW undergraduate students with an interest in working in substance use/addictions, public health, science communications, and related fields. The program is designed to help students gain project-based, real-world experience and learn about substance use research, policy, and practice.

The projects also gave interns an opportunity to connect with UW faculty and staff and visit community partners working in a variety of settings. A huge thank you to the mentors including Meg Brunner, MLIS; Alison Newman, MPH; and Sharon Garret, MPH, MA, as well as administrator Inga Manskopf for coordinating a successful and valuable new program.

And congratulations to the first cohort, Karen De Silva, Kathy Wang, and Anya Wai! They completed some amazing work related to anti-stigma education, health education, and centering lived experiences. Check out Karen’s animated video and anti-stigma campaign titled What You Say Matters More Than You Think.