27 Mar Social Work Appreciation Month: Annie Benson Spotlight

Annie Benson is a senior at Boise State University, graduating this May and is a social work intern for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Idaho. Annie is originally from Vancouver, Washington and came to Boise for college, initially pursuing a psychology degree. Annie has always had a passion for helping others, especially those who struggle to advocate for themselves. After taking a social work class, she fell in love with the field and switched her major to social work.

For Annie’s last year of undergrad, she had to complete a yearlong internship. She said, “I was the lucky one who got the Ronald McDonald House!” Annie works at the House Monday, Wednesday, and Thursdays, assisting with family check in/check-outs, cleaning, organizing events such as the Halloween Party, and researching social work programs at other RMHC Houses. She is particularly interested in pediatric social work and aspires to work in hospitals or possibly an oncology unit.

Annie has loved her internship at the House thus far and shared how rewarding it is when families open and confide in her. One of her most memorable experiences was with one of the first families she helped who had a baby in the NICU. Annie really connected with them and months after they left the House, the family returned to share updates with her. This experience left a long-lasting impact on Annie and deepened her passion for supporting others.

The positive impact Annie sees while working at the House keeps her motivated in her field. She expresses how important it is for her to prioritize self-care to ensure she is not taking on the emotional burden of those she supports. Annie also explained how RMHC of Idaho is such an amazing resource for families. The House  can relieve financial burdens, eliminate some stress for families, and is overall a great support system. 

Additionally, Annie expressed significant gratitude to her supervisor Maren Hermanstorfer. She shared how Maren has been extremely supportive, and she has learned so much from her. “I feel like I’ve grown a lot as a social worker from working with her.”