By Lisa Chen
When Eva first began at BCArc in the summer of her junior year, she had no idea that she would still be working here four years later. Introduced to a job posting by her college professor, Eva initially joined BCArc’s paid internship program for its flexibility and customization.
As one of BCArc’s Marketing & Communications Interns, Eva helped with creative projects such as storytelling, graphic design, and writing articles. She also helped with BCArc’s Family Support department – where she planned events for and spent time with the individuals – a role which she eventually “fell in love with.”
From full-time summer internships to seasonal positions during semester breaks, and in a variety of different fields, BCArc’s internship program is designed to meet the needs of each individual student. Many interns come back after graduation – often for the people or the experiences – to pursue a full-time job. Eva was one of them.
“I knew I was going to come back… I really couldn’t say goodbye.”
Making macaroni salad, visiting Mass Moca, and competing in Mario Kart tournaments during Game Nights, some of Eva’s favorite memories at BCArc were made during her first summer as an intern. Come August, when it was time to go back to school, she was surprised with artwork, goodbye cards, and heartfelt hugs from the people she supported. At that time, Eva “knew I was going to come back… I really couldn’t say goodbye.”
Eva walked at this year’s Berkshire Pride Parade with the BCArc Rainbow Group, a group for LGBTQ+ individuals with disabilities.
While attending her senior year at Western New England University, Eva kept in touch with staff and the people she supports through calls, check-ins, and cheerful birthday wishes. She also worked at BCArc part-time during the seasonal breaks. She reflects, “You really do miss them – everyone – from the staff to the individuals.”
2026 marks her 4th year here at BCArc. Now working full-time in Family Support as a Family Advocate, Eva helps organize events for individuals in the program. Some things that she helps plan for BCArc’s adult program include game nights, ladies’ nights, and community collaborations through the summer series program. Last year, BCArc also started a program for youth, with monthly events such as swimming at Girls Inc., watching Toy Story 5 at Beacon Cinema, and visiting different farms and parks in Berkshire County.
Another part of Eva’s job includes being a “bridge between family and school,” as she advocates for students with IEP Plans to ensure that their needs are met. She comments, “Everyone deserves an equal opportunity to education no matter their ability.”
The Family Support Department hosted a Murder Mystery party in April. Eva gives a shout out to Family Support, saying, “I couldn’t have done it without you guys!”
“Yes, it takes hard work… but we do it because everyone is entitled to live the life they want to live.”
When asked for her advice to those considering a career in human services, Eva offers, “Jump in even if you’re nervous and just be yourself. The individuals want to get to know you — what your favorite movie is, or food, or hobby – just like all of us do. We create a bond as someone they not only can rely on but also relate to.”
She adds, “They deserve the best chance, and the best us.”
In the future, Eva hopes to continue her work to support individuals as they pursue their ideal life. She concludes, “Yes, it takes hard work… but we do it because everyone is entitled to live the life they want to live.”
“Everyone deserves an equal opportunity to education no matter their ability.”
