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Friends of PAI

Intern in Indonesia

PAI has recently begun to take on interns who are keen to gain experience of working with an international relief and development organisation. PAI is committed to investing into people and helping them further develop their skills. Simultaneously, interns are able to make a valuable contribution to the work of PAI in valuing culture and empowering communities. Mark McAdam, an International Relations student from Wheaton College, Illinois, recently undertook a 2 month internship with PAI. He gives a few comments on his experiences.

“At the start of my internship I participated in a intensive training course that introduced basic concepts of development and relief work. I was then immersed into substantive office work as I researched background information for a new PAI project in Somaliland. In this process I was astounded by the confidence PAI displayed in entrusting me with such vital work.

The second part of my internship took place in Indonesia where PAI works in projects alongside community based NGOs. After having spent time in both training and the logistics of office work, I was tasked to review projects and practically apply that which I had learned in preceding weeks. My time there was invaluable: aside from connecting with locals involved in and benefitting from PAI’s work, I was able to contribute to the PAI team by teaching English, documenting the programme’s merits and challenges, and making recommendations to enhance project success. The gratitude of locals and their thankfulness for PAI’s work validated all of PAI’s efforts.

Interning for PAI meant handson work that truly mattered. I had a tremendous summer experience, and I doubt I could have had the same experience elsewhere.”

If You are interested for an internship with PAI, please contact the coordination office!