Alumni Spotlight: Madison Sweitzer, '19

As an undergraduate, Madison Sweitzer interned with the Highland Support Project in Guatamala through a Civic Fellowship and served as a mentor with the Scholars' Latino Initiative. Her senior year, she became the first Spider to win the Princeton in Latin America fellowship.

What are you working on now?

Right now I'm helping support Highland Support Project with emergency fundraising efforts to combat the effects of COVID-19. Beyond just the virus itself, the lack of public transportation and strictly enforced curfews has made it challenging for indigenous families to access food and other necessities. I've been helping to support their GlobalGiving campaign as well as writing short blog posts to help spread awareness.

How has the current pandemic changed your work?

Before the pandemic, I was living and working in the Dominican Republic at a school called Liceo Científico as a Princeton in Latin America Fellow. I've unfortunately had to return home since then, and am still continuing to support them through virtual classes when possible. However, the extra time is what has allowed me to work part-time to support the Highland Support Project.

What is your advice for the Class of 2020?

Hang in there and don't put too much pressure on yourselves to find a job right away. Take the time you need to process what's happening and still celebrate your graduation before rushing into what's next. Even though it was different than expected, I hope you can still celebrate in your own way this year's graduation and the last 4 years!