Have you ever dreamed of working at the United Nations, sitting together with diplomats and discussing your ideas with them? Two students from WHU have had the opportunity to realize that dream.

The first time I met Liu Leilei, she was sitting in front of a laptop with a casual white T-shirt and a bright smile. As a postgraduate student in WHU with interest and passion for social issues, especially in inequality and poverty, she joined the UN internship program in April this year without hesitation when opportunity came. “The inspiring multi-cultural and inclusive environment impressed me a lot”, Liu said. Experience in the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) really broadened her horizons. As the biggest UN agency in China, UNDP is one of the UN’s multiple agencies, responsible for providing support to governments for their efforts to integrate the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into their national development plans and policies. During the five-month placement, she not only accomplished the daily routine which saw her developing strategies, drafting reports and making recommendations for senior management, but she also learned a lot from her colleagues’ professionalism and past experiences. “Your voice can always be heard as long as you want it to be.” she said. “As long as you are confident, you can always make it if you want.”

Liu Leilei worked at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

Liu Leilei in the environment art installation exibition

Wang Ao, an undergraduate from WHU who is pursuing a major in Biotechnology Science and a minor in WTO Management, participated in an internship at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The UN Refugee Agency is a global organization dedicated to saving lives, protecting rights and building a better future for forcibly displaced refugees. Staff in the agency endeavor to ensure everybody’s right to seek asylum, and avoid violence, persecution, war or disaster at home. As an intern, Wang needed to address administrative issues, medical projects for refugees in China, financial affairs and bid work etc. “It is the work experiences and my exchange of personal interests with others during my internship that helped me become determined to work in international organizations”, Wang said. The medical care and sanitation development appeal to Wang a lot. After working in the NGO, he cannot help but continue exploring the mystery of UN. The experience at the UN really broadened his views and continues to help him build his individual value system with a global vision. “Cherish the rare exchange opportunity offered by WHU and listen to your inner voice. Considering the relatively low cost of trial and error, you’d better explore more opportunities instead of standing still while a college student”, Wang suggested.

Wang Ao worked at the United Nations

The profound influence of a UN internship provides students with a chance to experience a multinational working environment, perceive the world from various angles, and expand horizons. It is also a valuable experience for their career planning.

Liu Leilei’s certificate of completion

Just like the song by Michael Jackson goes: “we are the world, we are the children, we are the ones who make a brighter day”, the UN motivates many people to make contributions to the world by providing an inspiring and inclusive atmosphere as well as amazing colleagues.

Picture by interviewees                                                                                            

Edited by Wei Yena, Wang Wei, Hu Sijia & Shi Weiya