Simra Mariam's Internship at the United Nations Foundation
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Simra with a supervisor at the United Nations Foundation.
Simra Mariam, a junior from Ursinus College with a Media and Communication Studies major, spent her spring as a Communications and Design intern at the United Nations Foundation’s 3D Program for Girls and Women. Here’s what she had to say about her experience:
“The 3D Program for Girls and Women at the UNF is focused on ensuring success in all areas pertaining to health, education, and economic empowerment for women and girls through field research, document analysis and collaboration with stakeholders. Their initiatives thus far have led to leaders across the private and corporate sector becoming aware of the issues and disparities women face internationally, and in turn taking action to develop and support programs that target these areas. Currently, the 3D Program is working in Pune City and rural Pune District in Maharashtra, India, and will ultimately expand to Kenya in the foreseeable future.
“As a Communications and Design Intern, my primary responsibilities include social media content creation, graphic design, website design, outreach, and development of the 3D Program’s communications schedule and strategy. It’s been an incredible experience getting to work behind-the-scenes to establish and promote the Program’s projects thus far — in the digital age, an online presence is absolutely vital for any business or organization to both impact a diverse range of audiences and build a portfolio of the work they’ve done.”
Asked what her favorite experience has been or what she is most proud of from her internship at the UN Foundation, Simra said, “The privilege of working for the 3D Program for Girls and Women, housed within the United Nations Foundation headquarters, is an experience I will forever cherish. I have been a long-standing advocate for the empowerment of women and girls, particularly women and girls of color, and this internship has provided me with a deeper understanding of what it means to empower someone — the doors that open for them, the opportunities, the validation they deserve — it’s noble work, and I’m proud to have been a part of an organization dedicated towards that. I’ve grown immensely, both professionally and personally, since the start of this internship — aside from applying the skills I attained throughout my education and career, I’ve learned so much by merely being a part of the work environment, getting advice from mentors that will undoubtedly help me in the future, and networking with colleagues across the UNF. I am smarter, bolder, and more prepared than ever before to enter the workforce after graduation.”
On her misconceptions and fears prior to arriving in DC: “I have to admit — I was terrified before arriving in D.C. Choosing to intern in a completely new city at a well-renowned organization where I did not know anyone seemed, at first, like I was jumping headfirst into quicksand. I questioned whether I’d be able to handle the work/study schedule, whether I was qualified enough to compete the tasks that were required of me, and yes, whether I’d be able to adjust to commuting via the Metro. What I now know is that it is completely normal to feel these things, because, chances are, you aren’t the only one. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that if you were chosen for something, there’s always a reason why — whether it’s getting accepted to the program you applied to at a college/university, or your dream job — you got there because they wanted you there. Secondly, we don’t give ourselves enough credit — yes, an opportunity like this may initially seem intimidating, but a part of you felt bold enough to take the risk. The friendships and connections you make, and the lessons you learn about yourself and your life will last forever, making all of these preconceived notions and apprehensions worth it in the end.”
“What I didn’t know about D.C. during my visits to the city when I was young is how there’s nearly always something to do — whether it’s visiting the many museums and art galleries, coffee shops, networking events, a diverse range of restaurants with amazing cuisines — there’s no room to be bored whatsoever. The Metro connects each part of D.C. so well, and I absolutely loved visiting places like Georgetown, Adams Morgan, and Dupont Circle, all bustling with life. One place I’d definitely recommend to any student looking for a serene escape to study, work, or unwind is The Kogod Courtyard, located in The National Portrait Gallery. You can enjoy the natural light seeping though the paned glass roof, the various activities and performances held there, and the museum’s exhibits themselves when you want to explore.”
Asked what she will take away from the program, Simra said: “After interning with the 3D Program and living in D.C., I feel confident in myself, my capabilities, and what I know I can bring to the table. Not every internship will give you room to learn as you go or to work closely with colleagues who value and actually seek your input, but I was extremely lucky to work with a team that went above and beyond to treat me as one of their own. Despite my time in D.C. being cut short due to COVID-19, I was still able to work remotely from home, and I will forever be grateful to the 3D Program team and the UNF for being so supportive and accommodating during such a scary and trying time in all of our lives. The connections I’ve made here are incredibly valuable to me, and I’ll always be grateful to the mentors who have, perhaps even without knowing it, helped solidify and further my future career.”
