The Washington Center Internship Experience
Rachel
Experience Information
Employer: World Affairs Council-Washington DC
Job Title: International Affairs Intern
Major: Political Science
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: No
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
World Affairs Council-Washington DC is a non-profit, non-partisan organization committed to educating the public about international affairs through public programs and events.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
Along with the other interns, I planned and hosted a monthly pub quiz for young professionals. I assisted in executing multiple events with distinguished authors, professionals, and government officials,including ambassadors and foreign heads of state. I was also responsible for writing blog posts and summaries about these events. I was also involved in carrying out two week-long educational seminars for high school students and educators.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
This experience strengthened by critical thinking and writing skills, while increasing my level of professionalism. I also gained experience in event planning, public relations, and donor relations.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of this internship experience was the exposure to individuals and opportunities from whom I've learned so much. As a political science and international relations double major, there is truly no better place to spend a summer interning than in Washington DC. Through the Washington Center, I was able to take a course in international law, as well as participate in a variety of professional development workshops, in addition to my internship at WAC-DC.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This experience has influenced my future career goals by equipping me with a set of skills and experiences that make me competitive in the job market. My work with WAC-DC has inspired me to pursue a career in non-profit administration and fund development. This greatly impacted my decision to pursue another internship this fall, as a fundraising intern at a Grand Rapids non-profit. It is also because of this experience that I am interested in pursuing a Master's of Public Administration.