Award gives alumna Celina Cherian hands-on experience supporting children and teens

The Jane Morrow Rigg ’79 and Jeffrey T. Rigg Internship Support Fund in Sociology helps undergraduate sociology majors pursue meaningful internship experiences in sociology and related fields, including social research, social work and community services. Funded through the generosity of alumna Jane Morrow Rigg ’79 and Jeffrey T. Rigg, the award provides up to $2,500 to help support expenses associated with internships, helping them gain hands-on, real-world experience.

For Celina Cherian, a 2026 graduate, the award helped make the internship she did with Child Guidance Resource Centers’ CREATE program the summer before her senior year possible. 

A double major in sociology and psychology with a concentration in health and health services, and human services with a concentration in family and community services,  Cherian earned the award for her academic achievement, leadership and commitment to service. Throughout her time at UD, she served as treasurer of the Tea Club, participated in research labs, and completed internships with New Horizon Recovery Center, Child Guidance Resource Center’s CREATE program, and United Hand Counseling and Consulting.

“Due to the distance of my internship, as well as taking a summer class, I couldn't work the usual number of hours. So this award really took away that financial burden,” Cherian said.

The award helped support costs for transportation and professional attire, and compensation for her internship hours, allowing her to focus more fully on the internship experience itself.

The CREATE program is a year-round outpatient program that supports children and teens with autism by helping them build communication, social and emotional skills in a therapeutic group setting.

During her internship Cherian observed the different approaches therapists used to support children and families. She and fellow interns would discuss their observations, creating connections among the group. 

“We would talk about our individual experiences at CREATE, the different activities each therapist had, and our plans after graduating. It was a great bonding activity since we were all at a similar point in our academic journey,” Cherian said.

She encourages students who are considering applying for the award to give it a try and put time into the application process. Applications should include a statement about the internship being pursued, documentation of internship acceptance, a brief explanation of how the internship connects to educational and professional goals, a proposed budget and a brief faculty support letter.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and applicants are encouraged to apply at any time. Decisions are typically made within a few weeks of submission.

For more information and application details, visit the Sociology and Criminal Justice Merit Awards and Honors page.