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Work placement with a charity
Anyone looking to gain practical experience after completing their studies or whilst taking a break from their training will often find that an internship with an aid organisation offers more than just a line on their CV. Unlike many traditional internships, you’ll often be working directly on real projects, gaining an insight into the structure of an organisation and learning how international aid works in practice. However, anyone interested in this path should know exactly what to expect.
What makes such an internship special
An internship with an aid organisation is very different from a traditional office job. Depending on the organisation and location, this may involve administrative tasks at head office or an internship with an aid organisation in the Philippines, where you work directly on projects on the ground. Both options have their own merits: whilst working at head office often provides insights into fundraising, communications or project management, working on the ground allows you to engage directly with the actual project work involving people and communities.
It is important to note that an internship in this sector usually requires more initiative than in traditional companies. Many organisations operate with small teams and limited resources, which is why interns are often quickly involved in real tasks rather than just observing. Those who actively contribute their thoughts and put forward their own ideas will often be given responsibility more quickly in such structures than would be the case in larger, traditionally organised companies.
Typical areas of responsibility
Depending on the organisation and location, the tasks can vary considerably. They often include:
- Support with public relations work, for example on social media or with newsletters
- Assistance with documenting and evaluating ongoing projects
- Support with fundraising, for example with fundraising campaigns
- Translation work, where multiple languages are required within the team
- Direct involvement in projects on the ground, such as in education or health programmes
This variety is what makes an internship of this kind interesting, but it also requires flexibility. Anyone expecting clear, consistent tasks will soon realise that their day-to-day work can change depending on the current status of the project.
Application requirements
The requirements vary from organisation to organisation, but a few points crop up time and again. These usually include a good command of English, as many organisations operate internationally, as well as a genuine interest in the relevant project work. For placements abroad, a police certificate is often required as well, particularly where there is direct contact with children.
Some organisations also require applicants to be of a certain minimum age or to have specific prior professional knowledge, for example in the fields of social work, education or communication. It is worth reading the requirements of the organisation in question carefully before applying, as these can vary considerably depending on the role.
Structure and duration of an internship
The duration of an internship with an aid organisation is usually between six weeks and six months, although some programmes also allow for longer stays, for example as part of a voluntary service programme in the Philippines. Depending on the project, it may be worthwhile opting for a longer period so that you are actually integrated into the organisation’s processes rather than just getting a brief taste of it before you leave again.
In many cases, the application process is similar to that for traditional work placements: a cover letter, a CV and, often, a face-to-face or online interview are usually required. For international placements, there are often additional steps involved, such as providing details regarding accommodation, insurance and the costs incurred during the stay. Those who apply early also have a better chance of securing a suitable time slot, as many organisations plan and fill their internship places well in advance.
What you take away from the experience
Anyone who chooses to volunteer on an aid project in the Philippines or undertake an internship with an NGO generally gains experiences that are difficult to convey in a classroom or lecture theatre. This includes direct interaction with people in difficult life situations, working in intercultural teams and gaining a more realistic picture of how development work actually operates, with all its successes, but also the limitations one encounters along the way.
Many former interns also report that their perspective on global issues has changed following such an assignment. Those who previously read about poverty or inequality mainly from a distance experience first-hand, on the ground, how structural problems manifest themselves in the everyday lives of families and children, whilst at the same time learning how targeted projects can provide concrete help. Some even decide, following such a placement, to pursue a long-term career in the social sector or to remain connected to the organisation as a supporter after their placement has ended.
Ultimately, an internship with a humanitarian organisation is not a way to gain experience quickly or boost your CV, but an opportunity to take on real responsibility and become part of work that will continue long after your time there has ended. Anyone who takes this responsibility seriously, prepares thoroughly and remains open to new perspectives will usually gain more from such an internship than they might have expected.