Major
Economics
What three words would you use to describe L&C?
Transformative, nurturing, pioneering
What Career Center program did you participate in?
CDEV 145: Internship Course
What organization did you work with?
Ideas Beyond Borders
What did you do at your internship?
Ideas Beyond Borders provided me with an internship that enabled me to contribute to the organization’s mission and acquire new skills through a variety of duties and initiatives. At first, I concentrated on researching individuals and organizations with Candid and other tools, sending thank- you notes to contributors, and learning about donor tactics. I now have a firm understanding of the organization’s donor base and fundraising
strategies.
As my internship went on, I shifted into a branch of economics that I had never looked into before: doing in-depth economic study on the MENA region. I became completely engrossed in the topic, typically writing 5,000 words of content in a matter of days. Ideas Beyond Borders was able to collect a significant amount of new donations because of the direct contribution of my research and writing, which also broadened my understanding of the economic landscape of the region. During my internship, I also learned a great deal about the difficulties that women in the Middle East face, especially those who are subject to harsh governments like the Taliban. This experience strengthened my resolve to support Ideas Beyond Borders’ vital work advancing human rights, education, and empowerment in the area.
What is your biggest takeaway from your internship?
The most important lesson I learned during my internship at Ideas Beyond Borders is the transforming power of information and education in advancing human rights and countering extremism. Through my study and
participation in numerous projects, I have personally seen how critical thinking abilities and information availability may enable people and communities to confront oppressive ideologies and bring about constructive change. My conviction in the significance of organizations like Ideas Beyond Borders, which put forth much effort to advance knowledge and education in areas where these possibilities are frequently scarce, has been strengthened by this experience. It has also motivated me to keep going after a profession that would enable me to support global human rights advancement and the battle against extremism.
How is this internship connected to your career goals and/or future aspirations?
My future ambitions and professional goals in the areas of human rights advocacy and international development are strongly tied to this internship at Ideas Beyond Borders. I am majoring in economics and have always had a great interest in global issues. I am passionate about using my knowledge and abilities to make a positive impact on the world. My work with Ideas Beyond Borders has given me tremendous practical expertise in applying economic research and analysis to real-world problems, especially when it comes to MENA area counterterrorism and education initiatives. In addition to strengthening my resolve to work in this industry, this experience has
given me useful knowledge and abilities that I know I will put to good use in my future undertakings. I am more committed than ever to working toward a day when everyone, regardless of background or situation, has access to the information, opportunities, and resources they require to flourish and make a positive contribution to the creation of a more fair and equitable world.