https://www.idrc.ca/

International Development Research Centre

Program Intern

May - August 2019 • Ottawa, Ontario

What I liked

Able to gain overview and insight into broad intersection of international development space, and various stakeholder interactions (government, NGO, researchers, university, think tanks, private sector, foundations, etc).

What I wish was different

There was little to no coaching and feedback, nor discussion of what I wanted, or how I could grow. I was there to fulfill the tasks given to me based on the priorities of the team. This isn't necessarily bad, but I wish I could have had more feedback conversations, not just on my work projects, but on my work style, professionalism, etc.

Advice

Be prepared that you will be working at a government organization, I suppose. One with good people who care about what they do, but are managing a lot and aren't particularly invested in your intern experience in terms of supporting you with feedback and coaching.
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