July 28, 2023
News
Dominika Kundertová is a young student from the Czech Republic who just completed her seven-month internship with Caritas Czech Republic in the Humanitarian Aid and Development Cooperation Department. She was part of the Communication team and she actively assisted with administrative tasks. We sat down with Dominika to gain insights from her enriching internship journey at Caritas Czech Republic.
Why did you choose Caritas Czech Republic for your internship?
It was for three reasons. Firstly, I was ready to gain practical experience that would complement my academic studies in International Relations and Asian Studies. I thought the Caritas Czech Republic internship programme would offer me a valuable opportunity to immerse myself in real work experience. Secondly, I am interested in non-governmental organisations focused on humanitarian and development assistance. I don’t want to sound cheesy, but I deeply care for other people, especially those who find themselves in unfortunate situations. I feel a sense of fulfilment and gratitude when I can and do help someone, and I look for these things in my life. So naturally, I was thinking for a long time about directing my potential career in the humanitarian field. Lastly, I had been following Caritas Czech Republic’s activities for a few years, and after checking their advertisement for an internship, I was happy to discover that I might have a chance to experience it personally. And it worked.
For how long have you been doing your internship, and what was your main focus during the internship?
This will be my seventh and (unfortunately) last month here. I have been doing administrative support, working with internal and project documents, drafting texts or assisting with language translations, and preparing reports related to PR activities. I helped with coordinating events, mainly logistics, such as communicating with printing companies for exhibitions or magazines, ordering PR materials for exhibitions, scheduling transportation to different events and so on.
What did you enjoy the most about this internship?
I had the freedom to choose what I want to focus on during my internship. I think that’s great for a student who wants to explore their interests and passions. So, for example, one day, I sat at the office doing administrative things. The next day, I had the opportunity to bring our PR materials to a charity concert featuring numerous foreign artists. It was beautiful. The purpose of the concert was to collect funds to help people affected by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria. On another occasion, I participated in the construction of a refugee tent at a festival, the aim was to bring the reality of people's lives in difficult conditions to people here who may not realise how hard it is. I believe it is important to remind others that not everyone is so fortunate, and I think that when they see the reality of refugees with their own eyes, it makes the realisation even more effective and they can better understand how much the world needs organisations doing humanitarian and development work. To make a long story short, I liked the variety of activities.
Before joining Caritas Czech Republic, did you work for an NGO or as a volunteer? If not, did you face any challenges during your internship about the tasks you were assigned to do?
I did not have any other experience with NGOs. I did a few little jobs here and there of course, but nothing significant. When I applied for the internship, it was initially for a different position, but then I got recommended to the PR team. At first, I was a little bit hesitant and nervous about it because I didn't have any experience with PR. But I was pleasantly surprised about how the team welcomed me and introduced me to the wonderful work that they are doing here. Everything was explained to me and my colleagues assured me that there is nothing to be nervous about. Then, of course, every start at a new job or internship is challenging because you have to process a lot of new information and perceptions. To be honest it exceeded my expectations and showed me that I need to stop worrying so much.
Were there any surprising experiences during your internship that stood out to you?
What surprised me was the team dynamics and the atmosphere. The relations here are very friendly and everybody is always ready to help if needed. I guess people in the humanitarian field are like this, they have a good heart.
You will soon graduate with a bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Asian Studies. What plans do you have after the graduation?
For now, I want to study more and prepare for my master’s degree. Also, I am interested in Israel and hope to do another internship in Tel Aviv.
Based on your experience, would you suggest the internship at Caritas Czech Republic to other students or recent graduates?
Absolutely! Anyone looking for self-growth and gaining practical skills to complement their studies should think about it. You will learn from people who are innovative, efficient and (bonus) friendly!
Are there any particular pieces of advice or knowledge you have gained during your time at Caritas Czech Republic that benefited you and you would like to share with others?
I would suggest others who will come for an internship to try as many work activities/tasks as possible. It will help when deciding about future career goals.
In my case, I have already noticed a boost in my self-confidence and belief in my abilities compared to when I initially began.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I want to thank my colleagues for everything and I hope that I have been able to make a positive contribution and be of benefit to them. Caritas Czech Republic will always have a special place in my heart.
Are you interested in doing an internship at Caritas Czech Republic? Find out more about the internships at the Humanitarian Aid and Development Cooperation department at the link below.
