Virtual Internship Program with Intern NZ

My favourite aspects of this internship are: Working with a group of people are clearly committed to improving and protecting the human rights of all peoples. Having the opportunity to learn firsthand about New Zealand’s policies on human rights and political processes. Having the opportunity to focus on a particular topic of study that is of interest to me. I have learned a great deal about New Zealand’s human rights and climate change organisations, activities, and policies. I have had the opportunity to pose questions directly to components of the New Zealand government, and it has been rewarding to see that they have been very forthcoming. I feel like this project can identify meaningful improvements to New Zealand’s external human rights regime.

I have benefitted from this internship by networking, learning new skills and capitalizing on my marketing knowledge. My favourite aspects have been learning about New Zealand and the tourism industry down there. My greatest challenge has been to manage my time with the time difference between NZ & USA. Key skills I have learned are communicating across cultures and adopting new skills to better my career.

I am learning more about my major as well as how to adapt to foreign environments and cultures. I am seeing the world through a new lens, and I am loving every minute of it! I have learned to be more adaptable, open-minded, flexible, self-aware and independent. I think the 16-hour difference is definitely the biggest challenge to overcome because NZ is a day ahead of us, but through thorough communication, the time difference is no longer an issue. My favorite aspect has been meeting new people and learning about different cultures and environments.