Hometown: Lapeer, Michigan
Major and class standing: Humanities-Prelaw, Senior
Social media handles: Instagram: @kendrik.schneider
Where you interned: Dullah Omar Institute
What was your internship title and role/responsibilities?
As a policy researcher and advocacy intern, I analyzed human rights policies and contributed to the ESR Review, the organization’s academic journal.
How did you obtain your internship? What resources did you utilize to secure your internship?
My academic advisor referred me to Maggie Harris, the internship director, who signed me up for the Global Remote Internship Program and connected me with Connect-123, an internship provider. I wrote a personal statement of interest as well as held a meeting to showcase my areas of interest, and Connect-123 gave me a placement. I then waited for an offer and accepted it once received.
What did your daily routine include?
My daily routine included checking my email and working on small portions of my tasks. I was assigned to write three 3,000 word articles and, in doing so, I split work up into research, reading and finding resources, outlining information and my article body, and finally, writing in sections.
Your favorite experience from the internship?
My favorite experience from the internship was being able to learn human rights policies on a more global scale. I enjoy focusing on human rights and examining the policies that affect them, but I’ve always been more U.S. based, so it was eye-opening to expand into a more global perspective. I learned that the conditions are even worse in Africa and need more reform.
What was your least favorite part of the internship?
My least favorite part of the internship was the lack of variety in my tasks and communication. I was hoping for more than just writing, or to connect with people in Africa through workshops, meetings etc. I felt like I was on my own for a majority of the time, and I anticipated more interaction.
What skills did you learn and/or build upon during your internship?
I learned how to be more self-sufficient and independent in tasks, as well as being better about reaching out and communicating. My writing and analysis skills were also strengthened.
What did you learn about the industry or your career path as a result of the internship? What are your future plans?
I learned there are more opportunities for human rights advocacy than I even realized. In the future, I’m going to expand my horizons into more than just the United States for policy work, and look into organizations globally.
What advice do you have for other students seeking out internship opportunities?
For other students seeking out internship opportunities, I suggest utilizing school resources. Advisors, programs, postings, and club opportunities all have potential in finding you an internship. Once an internship is secured, communication is critical, and asking questions when you don’t understand really does help.
