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Senanee Abeyawickrama

As a fresh graduate of Ladies’ College Colombo, I was certain that I wanted to pursue a career in international relations. My passion for the field stemmed from my innate interest in world affairs and was further enhanced by my involvement in the Model UN and debating clubs at school. Before starting my first year at university, I was hoping to gain some relevant work experience, which is why I decided to apply for an internship programme at the LKI.

I proceeded to do a seven-month internship as a Communication and Programmes Assistant. My responsibilities were to prepare and administer public communications and assist with the internal programmes of the Institute. This included tasks such as event coordination and drafting the Institute’s daily news brief. I enjoyed working at the LKI as it promoted a very professional environment that was conducive to learning. The close-knit nature of the relatively small staff encouraged good teamwork and cooperation. It was a great place for networking and meeting distinguished figures such as diplomats and government officials. The staunch focus on effective writing was an ideal precursor to my undergraduate degree. Moreover, the leadership at the LKI was very encouraging and open-minded. I felt empowered and important – even though I was just an intern.

I am currently reading for a degree in Political Science and Economics at NYU Abu Dhabi. When I look back on my internship at the LKI, I am nothing but grateful, as I experienced a definite learning curve both professionally and academically. Effective writing, good work ethic, and attention to detail are a few important takeaways that I strive to maintain. Overall, the LKI gave me the relevant skills and insight to keep pursuing international relations – an ideal foundation as I intend to join the Foreign Service one day.

 

Ramesh Ganohariti

Ramesh Ganohariti completed a four-month internship at LKI in 2016, while studying for his Master of Science in International Relations and Diplomacy at Leiden University, Netherlands.

My stepping-stone into International Relations was the Model United Nations program, with which I got involved while in high school. To deepen my knowledge I chose to pursue my undergraduate studies in Social Science in Japan. After my Bachelor’s, I wished to expand my knowledge in International Relations and Diplomacy, and as a result I came to the Netherlands for my Master’s.

During my Master’s, I was required to do an internship and I choose to do it at LKI because of its relevance to my field and its reputation as a think tank associated with the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry.

At LKI, I was involved in a numerous tasks including conducting academic research. I also assisted with the publication of content on social media, as well as the website. Lastly, I assisted with the coordination of internal and public events. In particular, I was thrilled to facilitate the visits of the Foreign Minister of Sweden, Margot Wallstrom, the Director-General of UNESCO, Irina Bokova, and the Prime Minister of Norway, Erna Solberg.

During my internship I was thankful for the level of responsibility handed to me, and was able to gain confidence in independently carrying out the allocated tasks. Furthermore, LKI’s small size afforded me the possibility to interact with all staff, and participate and gain knowledge of all the areas of the organization. I also had a great exposure to the behind-the-scenes workings of the Foreign Ministry. Lastly and most importantly, I am grateful for the amazing relationship I was able to build with my colleagues, as well as the supportive environment of the Institute.

I am currently finishing up my Master’s degree, and writing my thesis on citizenship policies of partially recognized states. Following the completion of this program I wish to find employment in an international organization.