Google doesn’t provide an answer worth searching for so I am here to tell you straight from the source as these past six months have been nothing short of life-changing.
People often talk about their lives flashing before their eyes in intense moments, usually referring to a near-death experience. For me, it was different. I blinked, and my entire internship flashed before my eyes. I blinked and it was over… But in that blink, I gained more than just a passing experience. I’ve walked away with knowledge, growth, and a new sense of who I am – both professionally and personally.
With a degree in Communications and a Master’s in International Relations & Security, I had always wanted to test my skills in an international setting. When ICAO offered me the chance to join as a Journalism & Marketing intern, I was beyond excited. It gave me access to a world where I could apply my background while expanding my skills. Journalism was familiar, but marketing was a new challenge I embraced wholeheartedly. Each day, I navigated marketing tools and refined my writing for global audiences, contributing value while constantly learning. Internships are designed for learning, so I never hesitated to ask questions. And the answers I received? They weren’t just quick fixes – they were lessons that shaped my growth in ways I couldn’t have anticipated.
What stood out to me most during my time at ICAO was the environment. As a UN agency, I expected it to be formal, politically sensitive, and mission-driven. What I didn’t expect was the warmth I felt from the minute I stepped in the door. My team welcomed me with open arms on day one – offering support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Beyond my immediate team, I met incredible people from all over the world – people who are not only experts in their fields but also approachable, kind, and eager to share their wisdom. It’s rare to find a place that balances professionalism with such genuine warmth, and I feel lucky to have experienced that.
As my internship has ended, I find myself in a bittersweet moment. I’m immensely grateful for the opportunity to have worked with such a talented team in an organization I’ve long admired. But saying goodbye was never going to be easy.
If I’ve learned one thing from this experience, it’s that growth happens in the blink of an eye – but the impact lasts a lifetime. And for that, I will always be thankful.
