Embark on a journey to freedom, love, peace and harmony: What I gained from my WFWP USA internship
Editor’s Note: WFWP USA offers a diverse array of internships to young people wanting to expand their horizons and explore the world of non-profit work. In this article, Samipa Khanal shares about her experiences and insights as an outreach intern in January and February 2020. Anyone interested can apply for the next round of internships in June 2020.
My internship with WFWP USA has become an integral part of my learning process. I am delighted that it was a requirement for my course of study at the University of Bridgeport. I am a communications graduate and as a media and communications enthusiast, my internship at the Women’s Federation for World Peace has interestingly become one of the key achievements in my career path. It is given that WFWP is a non-profit and it possibly has more opportunities for students who pursue developmental studies, social work or similar majors. However, there are many things that I could experience, learn and practice that would help me get a full-time job in the future in communications and media.
Communication is not something to learn. It is a tool through which we learn, exchange ideas and make things work together. It is a very distinct quality that comes from within. What we learn are different ways through which we can communicate, and that is one of the most valuable things I learned while interning at WFWP. Since I worked on creating social media posts and optimizing the presence of the organization on the internet, I learned that clarity and concision, whether in a written or verbal form, play a significant role to convey a clear message and help maintain a healthy and professional relationship.
It was in the summer of 2019 when I first got to know about the organization and its ideals. The ground that they stand on, their vision and the role they play to bring women from all backgrounds and all places together and form a community intrigued me. The biggest draw for me was the diversity they embrace to embark on a journey to freedom, love, peace and harmony, worldwide.
I had never been welcomed so warmly before as here. Apart from the skills I developed, there is an intangible growth I experienced in myself after I joined WFWP. I want to acknowledge this to my supervisor, Kiyomi, who believed in me, guided me and was ever present when I needed any help – both flexible and supportive. I could explore my interests, try new things and be creative while she stood by me to fix my errors and appreciate my efforts. Quality mentoring is what we need in a professional world to be successful.
I appreciate everyone at the office for getting me involved. It has been a productive and insightful journey with a lot of knowledge sharing and learning. Creating bonds, understanding the value of relationships, connecting with someone on a deeper level, maintaining peace within ourselves and people around us – these are some of the life skills that I can always hold onto no matter the setting or the nature of my roles and responsibilities.
My internship ended with the completion of the required hours the university had allocated for me to work. Though it was short, it was intense. I worked full-time during the first month and part-time in the second month. It gave me a sense of professionalism and accountability that I need to maintain when I get into the work environment. I also enjoyed every minute I spent with WFWP. I believe that I need to enjoy what I am doing for it to pay off in a way I want.
