As a recent CIPS intern in Jakarta, I cannot express enough how truly transformative and fulfilling my experience was. I provided me a journey of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and professional growth that I will cherish forever. With a heart full of gratitude, I am excited to share some insights and advice that I hope will inspire and guide you on your own journey with this incredible organization.

To begin, let me tell you about the ethos of CIPS. This is an organization that is deeply committed to making a positive impact in Indonesia, and it shows in everything they do. The team I had the privilege of working with was comprised of passionate and knowledgeable individuals who were all dedicated to sustainable development. Their enthusiasm was infectious, and it made me feel excited to be part of something meaningful and impactful. This sense of purpose and mission is what will drive you and inspire you every day during your internship. 

One of the most heartwarming aspects of my internship was the warmth and kindness of the Indonesian people. They welcomed me with open arms and made me feel at home, even though I was a foreigner. I learned so much from their culture, their way of life, and their sense of community. You will find that the people you meet during your time with CIPS will be some of the most interesting, genuine, and caring individuals you have ever met. So, be open to new friendships and connections, and embrace the rich cultural diversity that Indonesia has to offer.

I want to encourage you to approach this internship with an open mind and a willingness to learn. During my time at CIPS, I had the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, and I found that each experience offered unique insights and learning opportunities. Whether you are supporting the research team or working on external relations, I encourage you to approach your work with a sense of curiosity and a desire to understand the context and impact of the organization’s work. This is one of those experiences where you get what you give. 

My experience with CIPS taught me that success in sustainable development requires building strong relationships and networks. By working collaboratively with donors, stakeholders, and other professionals in the field, we were able to achieve meaningful and impactful work. So, approach your work with a sense of curiosity and an eagerness to learn. Seek out mentorship and feedback from your colleagues, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Challenges will inevitably arise, but by staying focused and communicating effectively with your team, you can overcome any obstacle and contribute to positive change.

Thus, the overall theme for me was the importance of building relationships and networks. During my internship, I had the opportunity to connect with donors, stakeholders, and other professionals in the field of sustainable development. These relationships not only helped to advance the organization’s mission, but also provided me with valuable insights and mentorship that will be helpful as I continue to pursue a career in this field.

In terms of challenges, I found that adjusting to a new schedule and work environment was one of the most difficult aspects of my internship. However, by remaining open-minded and seeking support from my colleagues, I was able to overcome these challenges and gain a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural diversity and vibrancy of Indonesia.

Looking back on my experience, I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked with such a passionate and committed team at CIPS. My internship has not only helped me to develop valuable skills and insights in sustainable development but has also inspired me to continue pursuing a career in this topic in the financial field.

As you begin your own journey with CIPS, I encourage you to approach your work with a sense of curiosity and an eagerness to learn. Seek out opportunities to build relationships and networks, and don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek feedback from your colleagues. Remember that challenges are a natural part of any professional experience, but by staying focused and communicating effectively with your team, you can overcome any obstacle and contribute to meaningful and impactful work.

Finally, I want to emphasize the importance of reflecting on your experience and learning from your successes and challenges. By taking the time to reflect and learn from your experiences, you can continue to grow both personally and professionally, and contribute to positive change in the world.

Best of luck with your internship, and I look forward to hearing about your own experiences and insights.

Sincerely,

Haley Ham 

P.S

In this wonderful journey ahead of you, I ask you to look after my dear friends. I miss them. They are not just ordinary people, but truly special souls that have touched my heart. I am excited for you, embrace everything this has to offer. Best wishes from me to you xoxo