What did you study at PSIA?

Taking up Masters in Human Rights and Humanitarian Action was an easy and clear choice for me. I decided to have Diplomacy and Latin-America as my concentrations. I was fortunate enough to do my 3rd semester internship at the International Criminal Court (ICC) with the Office of The Prosecutor in The Hague. Graduating from PSIA in 2020 amidst the pandemic was real difficult, after several months of opportunity-hunting I finally landed myself an internship with the United Nations Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) in New York. I was part of the Myanmar Team. 

What was your role and main responsibilities? 

The Myanmar Team at the DPPA is a small dedicated task force of 4 people which supports the provision of Good Offices in Myanmar, mediation and other activities undertaken by the Special Envoy of the Secretary General and other senior UN officials. Before the Military Coup in February’21, I was helping monitor key political, security, human rights developments pertaining to Myanmar and the larger region particularly focusing on the Rohingya Crisis, to support the early warning functions of the office and add to the post-election engagement strategy. But after the Coup’21, we supported the Special Envoy’s key mediation efforts by coordinating with UN stakeholders from NY headquarters, colleagues on ground and key international players. 

How did you secure this role? 

I was hoping to gain experience working in international organisations as they provide immense learning and networking opportunity. I applied extensively to many positions that were of interest to me, literally mass applying!!! UN internships can be found on the UN Careers Website and applied through their Inspira portal. Once shortlisted, the application is usually followed by focused interviews. In interviews it is nice to showcase things that are not already reflected clearly in your CV and cover letters. 

How did your PSIA experience help you with the role? 

PSIA and SciencesPo in general has a stellar reputation amongst international organisations. Learning from esteemed faculty like Dr. William Schabas, Dr. Nazand Begikhani, Mr. Antoine Bernard, having their recommendation and support throughout brought an edge to my applications. PSIA faculty has been extremely kind and helpful.  

What are you doing now?

I have just started working as a Dynamic Knowledge and Early Warning Analysis Intern at the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva within the Methodology, Education and Training Section. 

What advice would you give to others? 

Keep applying!!! The darkest hour of the night is just before the dawn.

Learn more:

• Master in Human Rights and Humanitarian Action
• About UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs 
• About UN Human Rights