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Clare: California, USA -- AAI Intern Summer 2009

Before I began my internship at Asia America Initiative, I believed that I would be spending the summer making copies or filing papers. I had no idea that I would be an integral part of the organization’s success. I worked with one other intern to create the new Families for Hope program, which helps internally displaced people in Afghanistan. We also made handouts and youtube videos to promote the program. By doing this, I felt like I helped a great deal, because I knew how to use the technologies needed to make the videos. I learned how to write grants, and helped write a grant for the Department of Defense.

Another way I contributed to the organization was by doing research. I researched the conflict in Mindanao, Philippines to help prepare for Mr. Santoli’s two-week visit to the area. By doing this, I gained valuable knowledge that I would not otherwise have gotten. Before this summer, I was unaware of the unrest in the Philippines. Now I understand a problem that isn’t widely covered by United States newspapers. I am also better informed about the deeper causes of injustice in North Korea, China, and Afghanistan, rather than just the basics. I feel that I have developed important research skills beyond those I learn in school.

Because I was so involved with the organization, I learned so much about not only the workplace in D.C., but also more about how foreign relations and the United States’ government work. The best thing is, I got to help people. Working with Asia America Initiative is not just an office job: I got to directly help people in third world countries by creating programs and donating my time and effort to reaching out for support. I am coming out of this job with a sense of accomplishment and pride. I really feel like I made a difference.
Read the reflections of more interns: Justine | Peter | Nobutaka| Sandeep| Karolyn