If you are interested in pursuing a career in international development, an internship with UNICEF can be a great way to jumpstart your journey. UNICEF, the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund, is a global organization dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of children around the world. Here are 10 reasons why an internship with UNICEF can be a valuable stepping stone in your career in international development:

1. Gain hands-on experience: UNICEF offers a wide range of internship opportunities that allow you to gain practical experience in areas such as program management, advocacy, research, and communications. This hands-on experience can provide you with valuable skills and insights that will be useful in your future career in international development.

2. Access to a global network: By interning with UNICEF, you will have the opportunity to work alongside some of the brightest minds and most passionate advocates in the field of international development. This will give you access to a global network of professionals who can serve as mentors, references, and potential collaborators in your future career.

3. Learn from experts: UNICEF employs a diverse and talented team of experts in areas such as public health, education, child protection, and emergency response. As an intern, you will have the opportunity to learn from these experts and gain a deeper understanding of the complex issues facing children and communities around the world.

4. Contribute to meaningful projects: UNICEF’s work is driven by a commitment to improving the lives of children and families in some of the most challenging environments in the world. As an intern, you will have the chance to contribute to projects and initiatives that have a real, tangible impact on the lives of the people UNICEF serves.

5. Develop cross-cultural competence: International development work often requires the ability to navigate and collaborate with diverse cultures, languages, and traditions. By interning with UNICEF, you will have the opportunity to develop your cross-cultural competence and gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of working in a global context.

6. Build a strong resume: An internship with UNICEF can be a valuable addition to your resume, demonstrating your commitment to international development and providing evidence of your skills and experience in the field.

7. Explore career paths: Interning with UNICEF can expose you to a wide range of career paths within the field of international development, allowing you to explore different areas of interest and gain insight into the types of roles and opportunities available to you in the future.

8. Make a difference: Interning with UNICEF gives you the opportunity to make a real difference in the world by contributing to the organization’s efforts to protect and support the most vulnerable children and families.

9. Access to training and resources: UNICEF is committed to supporting the professional development of its interns, providing access to training, resources, and mentorship opportunities that can help you grow and develop in your career.

10. Open doors for future opportunities: A successful internship with UNICEF can open doors for future opportunities in international development, whether within the organization itself or in other related fields and organizations.

In conclusion, an internship with UNICEF can be a valuable and rewarding experience for anyone interested in pursuing a career in international development. It provides the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, learn from experts, contribute to meaningful projects, and connect with a global network of professionals. If you are passionate about making a positive impact in the world, an internship with UNICEF can be an excellent way to kickstart your career in international development.