Internship Location: Pakistan
Organization Type: Federal Government
Policy Areas: Economic Policy (including IMF loans), UN SDGs, Climate Policy
I interned at the National Assembly of Pakistan, working in the research wing, International Relations, the UN SDGs Secretariat, and currently in the committee wing. I learned the intricacies of legislative processes, the application of SDGs, and the importance of policy analysis in government operations. The policy analysis course helped me evaluate reports and documents effectively. The professional development course improved my networking skills, enabling me to interact with high-level bureaucrats. My statistics course was crucial for understanding data during committee meetings. I was surprised by the emphasis on hierarchical structure and protocol within the National Assembly, as well as the inclusive environment fostered through committee discussions. The most valuable aspect was the hands-on experience in policy development and analysis, and the opportunity to network with high-level policymakers. Yes, I would highly recommend this internship. It offers practical experience in policy-making, opportunities for networking, and the application of theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting. The internship clarified my interest in policy analysis and committee work, aligning with my career aspirations in public affairs. It provided practical insights that will shape my future research and professional endeavors.