When Koumae Adams joined the Chez Veterans Center as an intern for the Spring 2026 semester, she brought with her a lifetime of connection to the military community. Growing up in a Navy family meant moving often, attending school on base, and building friendships with others who shared similar experiences. That background made the CVC feel like a natural fit—a place where she could support military‑connected students while exploring her interest in social work and Veteran‑centered care.

Throughout the semester, Koumae focused on promoting self‑care, easing the transition into civilian life, and strengthening wellbeing among military‑connected students at UIUC. Her work spanned multiple projects, including:

• Weekly self‑care tips shared through the CVC Weekly Brief and social media
• Self‑care workshops featuring crafts, guided discussions, and community-building
• An interactive self‑care bingo board designed to encourage engagement and connection among residents
• Outreach to military‑connected students to offer support and check in on wellbeing

These initiatives blended creativity with practical support, helping students integrate self‑care into their busy academic lives.

Of all her projects, Koumae is most proud of the self‑care workshops she helped facilitate. These sessions offered a relaxed, welcoming space where students could paint, make slime, or simply talk with one another. Watching students open up, connect, and reflect on their wellbeing made the work deeply meaningful. It wasn’t just about the activities—it was about creating a space where students felt seen and supported.

One of the most important insights Koumae gained was how age and life experience can shape a veteran student’s sense of belonging. Many undergraduate students are 18–23, while student veterans may be older, have families, or be navigating a major life transition. Understanding this dynamic helped her appreciate the importance of inclusive, supportive spaces that honor the unique experiences of military‑connected students.

This internship strengthened Koumae’s confidence in professional settings—especially in meetings, where she learned communication skills and etiquette that will serve her well in future roles. On a personal level, the experience helped her better understand her father’s upcoming transition out of the military. Seeing firsthand the challenges veterans face when adjusting to civilian life gave her new insight into what he may experience as he prepares for retirement.

A standout memory for Koumae was seeing how many residents engaged with the self‑care activities she created. The conversations during workshops—creative, honest, and often heartfelt—left a lasting impression. These moments affirmed the value of her work and the importance of community-centered wellbeing.

Koumae hopes the self‑care initiatives she introduced will continue to support students long after her internship ends. By showing that self‑care can be accessible, engaging, and woven into everyday life, she hopes future interns will build on these ideas and continue fostering a strong sense of community at the CVC.

Her message to the next intern: be creative, be open-minded, and don’t be afraid to make things fun. When activities are engaging and approachable, students are more likely to participate and connect with the material. Self‑care doesn’t have to feel like a requirement—it can be meaningful, hands-on, and even playful.

As Koumae prepares for graduate school and a future in social work, she carries with her the lessons, relationships, and insights gained at the CVC. She describes her time here as warm, supportive, and deeply formative—an experience that will continue shaping her path as she grows into her professional identity.