Hey guys!
I can’t believe that I’m already at the midpoint of my 10 week internship.
I changed my learning goals two weeks into my internship because I became more familiar with my responsibilities. They are:
1) Improve my ability to write clearly and concisely.
2) Enhance my communication skills.
3) Learn how to effectively network.
4) Pursue my personal interest in learning more about the Central and Eastern Europe region.
5) Gain a better understanding of U.S. goals abroad.
I believe that I am achieving my learning goals by having a variety of responsibilities. For example, my day-to-day will consist of a combination of working on projects that enhance my technical skills in addition to attending meetings that improve my interpersonal skills. I have also become accustomed to keeping up with international news, so my general knowledge of foreign policy has increased.
I know that I am learning because I have gotten better at recognizing foreign policy jargon and keeping up with news. At first, I would complete projects and attend meetings without knowing what the purpose of them were. However, now I understand the reasoning behind the work that I am doing, and it demonstrates growth.
Although I cannot share specific projects that I am working on, I can say that I work on a number of things, and I am proud of the work that I contribute.
Part of NCI’s mission is growth as a leader. This internship has supported my growth by preparing me for the future. Being tasked with important and engaging work has enhanced my confidence, and I feel more prepared for a career after graduation.
Last week, I attended a symposium about women pursuing careers in foreign policy. My supervisors actually recommended that I attend this event, and they are always very encouraging of any meetings or events that I wish to attend outside of the office. Networking is important in DC, and hearing from women about their career paths has helped me developed as a female leader by recognizing the challenges that they have faced.
As a result of my internship, I have definitely developed my skill of writing brief memos, which will be transferable to any future career. Academically, I have learned how to conduct research on topics that are not always easy to find.
I witness myself learn and grow in my internship, and I am looking forward to seeing this continue in my next 5 weeks!
*NOTE: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency of the U.S. government.