Innin Buyl, third-year BBA student at IE University, recently completed an International Relations and International Event Organization internship at renowned NGO Save the Children. Innin told us about discovering the opportunity in IEU’s weekly Talent & Careers emails, her experience at the NGO, and what it takes to stand out in the application process.
What can you tell us about interning at an NGO like Save the Children?
Save the Children has an international presence, so it requires knowledge of international communication and coordination. This was especially true for my internship, which involved organizing a four-day international meeting for participants from 25 different countries.
Save the Children is an incredible organization, and everyone who works there can teach you something useful about the NGO, your career, or life in general. I was given a lot of flexibility when it came to hours and tasks, as long as everything was done and organized. It really is a unique experience, especially as an intern.
You have to be as compassionate as you are resilient when you’re this involved with them. Everyday, you’re faced with facts and realities you don’t come across on a regular basis. Your problems really get put into perspective as you see others struggle a great deal more than you ever will.
One of the venues of the event was Colorearte in Leganés. It’s a learning center located close to government housing. This meant I was both on location where the action happens, and in the offices, so I got to see both worlds firsthand – something that rarely happens in other internships.
How did you find out about the opportunity to intern for Save the Children?
Every week we get emails from the IE University Talent & Careers Department, telling us about internship opportunities. I used to look through them out of curiosity, never really looking to do one. When I saw this internship it seemed like the perfect fit for me, so I decided to apply.
How did the CMC and your IEU experience help you during the recruitment process?
During the recruitment process IEU was really helpful, offering to practice the interview and sending me tips. That really paid off when it came time for the real thing.
What can you tell us about the recruitment process: stages, tests, interviews, etc.?
First, I applied through IEU Careers, sending my CV through the IEU platform. Once I was accepted to the interview round, they invited me to a group interview. I wasn’t able to make the interview because I was travelling. Fortunately, they were able to re-schedule, giving me a personal interview at a later date. I was offered the internship right after the interview.
Would you want to share any tips or advice with students interested in applying to a similar internship?
What I noticed during the interview was that my interviewer had highlighted ‘honours in ethics’ and the volunteer activities I put on my CV. So, I recommend that students volunteer and put this info on their CV! After working here I can say they look for people who care, so show your interest in the humanitarian sector. Be open and confident, and just apply. If you’re not chosen, there will always be another opening at some point. If you’re chosen, it’s an incredible experience to look forward to. The more you give, the more you will get in return.
