January Intersession Highlight: Justice Williams ‘28
Justice Williams'28.
Bard’s January Intersession begins at the end of winter holiday vacation and extends through the month of January. During this time, students can gain academic or work experience or earn academic credits through a range of opportunities, including internships, research, independent study, and community-based engagement. This year, I had the opportunity to speak with Justice Williams ‘28, a student who spent her Intersession working with the Ulster Immigrant Defense Network (UIDN).
Justice described how hard it can be to wake up, brush your teeth, wash your face, read the news, and then go about your day as if you didn’t just find out, once again, that the world is burning.
Justice spoke openly about feeling pulled in multiple directions at once: responsibility to herself as a student, to friends and family, and to fellow citizens. She described being overwhelmed by both emotion and a deep sense of duty. Wanting to truly “walk the walk,” not just learn theory in a classroom or sit around discussing what’s wrong.
That’s where UIDN became so meaningful.
Justice described working with the Ulster Immigrant Defense Network as a way to find community with others who also felt a deep need to help. More than anything, the experience gave her a place to put her emotions and fears about where society is going, while also reminding her that she has a voice in that direction.
What stood out to me most was the message Justice offered to other students: when you feel overwhelmed by the world, it can be tempting to look away just to get through the day. But instead, Justice encouraged people to find their community, the people who understand how hard it is, who want to help, and who are willing to lean on one another.
In her words, that kind of connection makes the challenge feel possible.
Justice ended her reflection with gratitude for UIDN and everything the organization has done and continues to do. Civic engagement is not only about professional development, but it’s also about finding purpose, staying present, and learning how to act even when you’re scared.
Interested in an Intersession opportunity like Justice’s? Explore January Intersession options and community engagement placements to find a project that connects your academic work to real-world impact.
Post Date: 02-06-2026