Since the start of June, the IES team have been hosting a new Project Intern, Emma, who is a final year University of Sussex student. The university's Career Lab facilitate six-week internships for students progressing through their undergraduate degrees, enabling them to pick up new skills during their summer breaks. Emma's thoughtful application and confident interview were extremely impressive and we were delighted to be able to offer her the role. Emma's enthusiastic, proactive approach made her a valuable member of the team from the get-go, and the experience was as positive for us as it was for her! As she approached the end of her time with us, we caught up with Emma to reflect on her experience:
What were you doing before your internship?
Before my internship I had just completed my third and final year at the University of Sussex studying Geography and International Development. My third-year modules were: ‘Development, Business and Corporate Social Responsibility’, ‘Disasters, Environment and Development’, ‘Designing Alternatives for Development’ and ‘Global Food Security’. In my spare time, I have dedicated over a decade to the Girl Guiding organisation as both a guide and leader and enjoy running sessions and planning events for the Guides.
What made you decide to apply for an internship, and why the IES?
I, like many, found the idea of finishing university and facing the current job market quite daunting. An internship seemed like the perfect opportunity for me to boost my CV and get a taste of working life. I applied for an internship at the IES because I was looking to gain experience in a field that was new to me but also greatly relates to my interests. Although I have previously completed an internship with an NGO, environmental science was relatively new to me, and professional bodes definitely were. I was excited to learn more about this interesting organisation, whilst gaining hands on experience.
Have there been any challenges?
Although I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the IES, and identifying a challenge feels like a hard task, I did find adapting to the IES website software challenging at first. I initially struggled with the software as it is slightly different than what I am used to, but I soon got the hang of it thanks to guidance from the team.
Take us through a typical day during your internship - what did you get up to?
My typical day began at 9:30am, where I would log onto Slack and check for any messages here and on my work email. I would also check my calendar to see what meetings I had that day. Throughout my internship, I liked to stay organised and divided my tasks for the week into a daily planner. So, I would begin by tackling whatever tasks I had set myself for the morning. These tasks included but were not limited to:
- Completing Mailings
- Creating designs on Canva
- Analysing data and producing reports
- Recording Equity, Diversity and Inclusion training
- Researching international courses to accredit
I often met throughout the week with my line managers Amy (Communities & Membership Engagement Officer) and Sally (Education & Professional Development Officer). They would check in with how I am getting on and give me new tasks as needed. I worked until 5:30pm and took a 1-hour lunch break.
What skills have you developed, and what have you learned?
I have learnt how to navigate some new forms of software. I have also developed my creative skills by designing engaging content/graphics for different forms of media and audiences whilst maintaining the brand guidelines. I have built on my communication skills both inter-personally and virtually as I recorded an EDI training presentation. The IES has also helped me to build confidence working with a friendly and dedicated team.
What advice would you give to a student considering applying for an internship?
First of all: Do it! The IES is a great and nurturing environment to develop your skills and build your CV as an intern. And if you are lucky enough to get an internship with the IES, don’t be afraid to ask questions. The IES team is so supportive, and they will always be willing to help.
Now you've completed your internship, what's next?
I am currently planning on working towards a career in Event Management in the NGO sector. My internship with the IES has allowed me to grow confidence and fill gaps in my CV. In this internship, I was mostly able to choose my own tasks and mould the experience to what would most benefit my professional development whilst also contributing to the organisation.
Finally - did you have a favourite part?
It is really hard for me to pinpoint one part of this internship that stands out against the rest. I was lucky enough to work on a diverse range of projects, and this has made my experience at the IES so broad. But I would say that the thing that really separates my experience at the IES is the people. Specifically, my line managers who have helped me to develop my confidence as I enter this next stage of my professional life. I couldn’t be more grateful to them for believing in me and creating a space for me to grow, even in such a short amount of time.
Emma is a recent graduate from the University of Sussex with a BA Hons in Geography and International Development. She completed a 6-week internship with the IES supporting the Education & Professional Development Officer and the Communities & Membership Engagement Officer. Emma has experience working in the charity & NGO sector and hopes to build a career in events management in the sector.
Banner image © Ruud Morijn via Adobe Stock
