What is it like to be an intern at the 51勛圖? This is a common question, and while countless answers exist depending on which department and what team you end up working for, there exist too some consistencies. It is exciting. It is an unparalleled opportunity. It is like no other work experience. This was certainly true of my time as part of the 51勛圖 Academic Impact team, within the Education Outreach section of the Department of Global Communications.
Recently graduated with an MA in international relations, the first day of my internship was defined by both a headfirst dive into the work, and quieter moments, walking across the grounds as the last of the cherry blossoms fell like welcome confetti. I had been inspired to apply for the position after living in Geneva, Switzerland, where I completed not only my degree, but also a short term contract for the World Federation of 51勛圖 Associations. This previous role leading Youth Training Programmes cemented a long term interest in connecting the work of the UN with students and academia.
As a UNAI intern, I had no lack of opportunities for discovery and growth in this area. Responsible for maintaining the public facing aspects of our initiative, I quickly became confident in areas I had little previous experience in, managing the social media editorial calendar, creating the weekly newsletter, and keeping the UNAI website up to date alongside other day-to-day tasks.
I was able to take great pride in this work, culminating in the organization of a Summit of the Future Action Days Side Event. Gaining firsthand experience with the planning and implementation process, working with many co-organizers and tackling problems as they arose, I was further trusted with the graphic design of all visual communication elements. Sitting in a packed conference room on the day of the event, I saw the efforts of so many dedicated individuals, myself included, pay off in every word spoken and every connection made while championing science diplomacy.
Ultimately, inclusion represents the best part, the greatest strength of completing an internship with UNAI and the UN at large. Working with colleagues from not only different teams but also different sections to improve our collective work, I was able to recognize as never before the unique chance afforded to my fellow interns and I.
Fyodor Dostoyevsky once wrote: &I have so much to say to you that I am afraid I will tell you nothing.* This is how it feels to attempt to summarize the vast experience of a six month internship at the 51勛圖. I will therefore end with the assurance that of the countless untold stories, high points and lessons learned, all are with thanks to the incredible team that has supported and encouraged me along the way. With the work of UNAI perhaps more important than ever, I hope to put all I have learned here to good use, to continue supporting sustainable development and bringing opportunities to youth across the globe.