Over the summer, Alex Cofield ’25 and Charles Adams ’25 secured internships in Virginia’s Office of the Attorney General, working in different disciplines.
Hampden-Sydney is home to driven students eager to maximize their learning and chase their aspirations. With the support of an exceptional alumni network, ranked No. 3 in the nation by the Princeton Review, and the Ferguson Career Center, recognized as No. 3 in the “Top 20 Best Schools for Internships (Private)” and No. 7 for “Best Career Services,” students gain invaluable connections and opportunities. Additionally, Hampden-Sydney ranks third nationally for career preparation, according to the Wall Street Journal, providing students with top-tier experiences that prepare them for success.
Often, these two resources collide, with alumni and our dedicated staff helping to pave the way for student success. This past summer, history majors Alex Cofield ’25 and Charles Adams ’25 secured coveted internships in Virginia’s Office of the Attorney General, working alongside Attorney General Jason Miyares and Ian Lichacz '22, director of special projects in the office.
“I first connected with Ian during my freshman year when he was a senior through our fraternity, Delta Kappa Epsilon, and we quickly built a strong relationship,” Alex said. “We've kept in touch ever since, and last year, while I was working as a communications intern in Kentucky, Ian heard about my experience and encouraged me to apply for a communications internship with Virginia's Office of the Attorney General.”
“I’ve also known Ian since my freshman year, and when I think of a Hampden-Sydney man, he’s one of the first people that come to mind,” Charles added. “After discussing my options with him, he played a key role in guiding my decision to apply, and I was fortunate to secure an internship with the scheduling and logistics team.”
The internship roles were highly competitive, with only about 10 applicants accepted for each position. Both Alex and Charles received advice and support from the Ferguson Career Center, which provided funding for their internships. Additionally, they applied for and secured funding from the Circle Internship Fund, specifically available to fraternity members at Hampden-Sydney.
“Being from out of state, it’s difficult for me to manage living expenses,” Alex said. “However, thanks to the support from the Ferguson Career Center and the Circle Internship Fund, I was able to set aside those concerns and focus fully on my internship.”
Charles added to Alex’s sentiments: “The funding is a tremendous help. It covers all the essential costs and expenses, really taking away the financial stress.”
From early June through the end of July, Alex and Charles were deeply involved in their internships. Alex, serving as a press secretary, handled tasks such as compiling press clips, drafting briefs, and serving as a photographer, gaining broad experience in communications. Meanwhile, Charles focused on writing briefs and conducting personal research for Attorney General Miyares. During their lunch breaks, Alex and Charles attended various events where representatives from different legal offices spoke about the principles of being an effective public servant.
As a recent Hampden-Sydney graduate, I was incredibly proud of their hard work this summer. Their performance was so impressive that they were among only four interns to receive a challenge coin from the Attorney General at the end of the program.
Ian Lichacz '22
“One experience that particularly stood out was helping teach Narcan administration to people in Petersburg,” Charles said. “Being part of that effort and contributing to saving lives was incredibly meaningful. It was also fulfilling to see the impact of my work through contributing to various projects and managing detailed documents. I believe it would be hard to find a more hands-on and rewarding internship experience than this one.”
“It was great to see how much the team valued our contributions,” Alex said. “I had the chance to visit the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, where I not only heard the stories of veterans but also captured them through my lens. From the projects we helped with and the briefs we wrote to the research we conducted and the photos taken, it’s rewarding to know that our work continues to be used and appreciated.”
Charles highlighted the importance of the Rhetoric Program at Hampden-Sydney, pointing out how he used his skills daily while assisting Attorney General Miyares with transcriptions. “It was deeply satisfying to apply what I had learned, add a personal touch, and contribute in that distinctive Hampden-Sydney manner.”
As the weeks progressed, Alex and Charles developed significant confidence in their abilities, gained invaluable insights into the government sector, and demonstrated responsibility, adaptability, and a strong work ethic, all supported by the encouragement from Lichacz and his peers. Additionally, they strengthened their connections with Lichacz over this time.
“I was fortunate to live with Ian during the internship period, and that enhanced our connection,” Alex said. “I was able to learn what his job entails and what it means to be a great public servant as he served as the example.”
“It was great to see Ian in his element and establish this closer connection with him,” Charles added. “Being a Hampden-Sydney man, we knew were going to see a top-notch public servant in him.”
At the end of the internship, Alex and Charles received praise for their dedication and hard work from Attorney General Miyares. This recognition not only highlighted their impressive contributions but also affirmed their development and commitment throughout the program.
“As a recent Hampden-Sydney graduate, I was incredibly proud of their hard work this summer,” Lichacz said. “Their performance was so impressive that they were among only four interns to receive a challenge coin from the Attorney General at the end of the program.”
The challenge coins they received symbolize the hours of effort, lessons learned, and dedication to their work. Alex and Charles embody the spirit and diligence that Hampden-Sydney strives to instill in its students. Their accomplishments serve as a strong representation of the College’s mission to form good men and good citizens.
With the support of the Hampden-Sydney alumni network and the dedication of the Ferguson Career Center, Alex and Charles exemplify how students can thrive and deepen their connections. Their experiences highlight the effectiveness of a Hampden-Sydney education combined with a strong desire to succeed, creating a perfect foundation for success beyond the College’s gates.
Hampden-Sydney is home to driven students eager to maximize their learning and chase their aspirations. With the support of an exceptional alumni network, ranked No. 3 in the nation by the Princeton Review, and the Ferguson Career Center, recognized as No. 3 in the “Top 20 Best Schools for Internships (Private)” and No. 7 for “Best Career Services,” students gain invaluable connections and opportunities. Additionally, Hampden-Sydney ranks third nationally for career preparation, according to the Wall Street Journal, providing students with top-tier experiences that prepare them for success.
“I first connected with Ian during my freshman year when he was a senior through our fraternity, Delta Kappa Epsilon, and we quickly built a strong relationship,” Alex said. “We've kept in touch ever since, and last year, while I was working as a communications intern in Kentucky, Ian heard about my experience and encouraged me to apply for a communications internship with Virginia's Office of the Attorney General.”