Sarah, ECH, Alternatives, Uganda, Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA)
As I am a fourth-year student in Conflict Studies and Human Rights, my academic studies have mostly pertained to international humanitarian law, social injustices, and international relations. For my internship I am a program and research support officer in the advocacy and communications division, with The Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA). Our main headquarters is located in Kampala, Uganda’s capital. Many of my responsibilities entail assisting with the preparation and production of communication materials, providing support in developing and refining press, media and public statements, and providing any additional support for advocacy and projects that SIHA undertakes.
Many of the skills that I have learned in classes such as Theories of Conflict, Introduction to Women, Gender, and Feminism, and Introduction to International Human Rights Law and Institutions have all provided me with the skills that are required in my workplace. I have learned everything from critical thinking skills, academic writing, critical analysis, researching skills, and the ability to identify different theoretical perspectives and apply them to my work. A lot of my work as a program and research support officer pertains to qualitative writing and researching, many of the skills in which I have acquired from my Qualitative Methods in Conflict Studies and Human Rights course. I often critically analyze sources in which I gather from my research, summarize and support main arguments, as well as produce academic writing. Since a lot of the skills that I have learned pertain to my work, my program has provided me with an intellectual toolkit that I possess at my disposal.
My internship has also provided me with many experiences that I can take into my future. Working with a team has substantially improved my cooperation, coordination, and organization skills. By navigating deadlines with team members, coordinating workloads, and analyzing group projects, cooperation is vital in order to perform as a productive and reliable member of the team. The skills in which I have acquired from my internship and academic education have provided me with a skill set that I can use to redefine my future and take into further careers, as well as the ability to overcome challenges and adapt to new circumstances.