Testimonials
Nara Hur
Country: Republic of Korea
Period: April to October 2024
Funded by: The Korean Ministry of the Environment for International Environmental Expert Training Program
Being part of the IAI’s work was an enriching and rewarding opportunity that allowed me to immerse myself in the dynamic world of international environmental initiatives. Working with the Capacity Building team and the Science Diplomacy Center broadened my perspective on the power of interdisciplinary efforts. I learned how international cooperation leads to stronger, more inclusive outcomes that reach wider communities. Additionally, I had the privilege of contributing to various projects and collaborating with experts who taught me essential skills. I learned how to foster collaboration across diverse teams to drive innovative solutions and to develop strategic thinking by aligning different goals. I also gained valuable insights into diplomatic negotiation techniques, mediating differing viewpoints, and further strengthened my leadership skills by taking initiative and guiding teams to success. What stands out most about IAI is the work culture—there’s a strong sense of camaraderie, accountability, and mutual support. You’re welcomed from the start, and if you have an idea or initiative, there is always someone ready to listen and offer guidance. This internship not only sharpened my professional skills but also reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in international organizations and the environmental sector. I’m deeply grateful for the support I received and look forward to applying these skills and insights in my future career in these fields.
Paulo Cardoso
Country: Brazil
Period: April 2024 to October 2024
The time I spent as an intern at the Inter-American Institute for Global Change Research was undoubtedly a significant step in my international relations career. Working in the Directorate provided me with a deep understanding of how diplomacy operates in practice, how cooperation in the scientific field is fostered, and why it is so important. At the IAI, I learned how to effectively reconcile the different expectations of Parties with the mission and objectives established by an international treaty, always focusing on open dialogue and transparent communication. One of the most valuable aspects of my internship was the interaction with experts over the past few months. Through collaboration with specialists in science diplomacy, I gained extensive knowledge of how science diplomacy functions in the region, the opportunities it presents, and the challenges it faces. At the IAI, I was able to develop various skills essential for working in international environments. The ability to operate effectively in a multicultural setting is a key requirement for those seeking to internationalize their careers. In this regard, collaborating with colleagues from different countries and backgrounds not only enhanced my communication skills but also strengthened my capacity to align diverse perspectives within a single project. Finally, I believe that my learning experience here extends beyond the specific tasks I was involved in. The interaction with my colleagues, who are, above all, wonderful individuals, made me feel genuinely comfortable in our work environment. This experience showed me that working in a place like the IAI is also about building connections and developing interpersonal skills to create an environment where everyone can collaborate and freely express their ideas, regardless of their role on the team. After these months at the organization, I can say with confidence that I have grown both professionally and personally.
Diego Hurtado
Country: Panama
Period: 1 February 2024 to 31 July 2024
Collaborating with the IAI has been one of the most interesting work experiences I have had. I discovered a whole world of opportunities for multi- and trans-disciplinary collaboration that makes a difference because it allows me to develop a broader vision. In practice, this translates into greater inclusion of communities and their knowledge, empowering them and making them part of the production of knowledge so that the benefits reach more and more people. In addition, I had the opportunity to get involved in different aspects of the IAI's functioning and learn from experts useful skills on how to build consensus, witness well-structured exchanges of arguments, and use evidence to communicate ideas. Finally, the work culture fosters camaraderie and accountability. You feel welcomed and supported, while always being pushed to do better. It's inspiring when you see the hard-working, approachable and creative team that IAI Executive Management has. If you have an initiative, you're sure to find someone who will listen and support you.
Sunghee Park
Country: Republic of Korea
Period: From May, 2023 to Jan, 2024
Funded by: The Korean Ministry of the Environment for Global Environmental Leaders Program
I had the privilege of participating in an internship at the IAI, funded by the Korean government. This opportunity enabled me to leverage my experiences and expertise to support IAI's mission in international cooperation, science outreach, capacity building, and the open exchange of scientific information related to global change. Being part of this program allowed me to grasp the vision of a sustainable Americas. I gained an understanding of the significance of transdisciplinary projects in addressing issues involving diverse stakeholders and the importance of inclusivity and engagement. During my internship with the IAI science and directorate teams, I became adept at communicating with team members. While working remotely posed some challenges, the ongoing support from my team and regular weekly meetings ensured the successful completion of tasks. Throughout the internship, I had the privilege of attending the 31st Conference of Parties to the IAI and the Sustainability Research & Innovation Congress (SRI), co-organized by the IAI, in Panama. The exposure to decision-making processes, educational sessions, and indigenous seminars provided invaluable in-person experiences. Also, Interacting with IAI committees, focal points from different countries, and the Science, Technology, and Policy (STeP) Fellows broadened my perspective. These experiences highlighted the crucial role of international organizations in facilitating an understanding of diverse global issues within the same context. Regarding specific projects I contributed to, my involvement in the process of producing the IAI newsletter was instrumental in helping me understand emerging issues in the Americas and how to address them. Analyzing IAI publications provided insights into significant topics in the research field. Undoubtedly, these experiences have enriched my understanding of global change and international cooperation. I am grateful for the support and guidance throughout my internship. I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with professionals at IAI, which has significantly contributed to my capacity building.
Sofía Velásquez Carreño
Country: Chile
Period: 14 August 2023 to 14 February 2024
My work experience at IAI was very enriching; I was part of a multicultural team and learned about the important work of the Institute, the need for specialized action, and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to addressing events that affect the development and well-being of communities in the Americas. I was able to work on and reinforce various skills, such as English writing, adaptability, and creativity, among others, through the different projects in which I was directly involved, such as creating a news space for the website. Additionally, I participated in collaboration processes with other institutions to carry out innovative and educational projects. Undoubtedly, it was a highly recommended experience of professional growth and applying skills and knowledge that enable one to be a better and more complete professional, regardless of the field or discipline from which you come.
Dain Jeong
Country: Republic of Korea
Period: September 2022 to February 2023
Funded by: Korean Ministry of Environment for Global Environmental Leaders Program
Working at IAI was an invaluable experience for me. I could learn about the organizational culture and practical work done in an international organization, especially in the IGO, and the importance of transdisciplinary research for global change. During the internship, I had a chance to participate in the Science Diplomacy Center Advisory Board meeting, which was the most memorable, and write the meeting minutes. Also, I assisted in completing and updating of Small Grant Program final report, organizing the decisions made by IAI chronologically, and launching the IAI virtual campus. It was my honor to join the Science team and meet wonderful people all around the American continent. Lastly, I would like to say thank you all for inspiring and supporting me.
Mercedes Guadalupe Vásquez Romero
Country: México
Period: November 2021 to May 2022
During my internship with the IAI I learned about different topics related to global environmental change, mainly in water governance. I participated in the meetings for the preparation of the Climate, Environment and Health course organized by the IAI, the Pan American Health Organization and the Global Consortium for Climate and Health Education. I had the opportunity to attend the sessions for the elaboration of the survey for the regional evaluation carried out by the IAI with its member countries. In the field of scientific communication, I synthesized the information and created the infographics related to the work of the IAI in the past 30 years, and wrote texts for dissemination of information on social networks. I also conducted an analysis and count of the institutions that have received IAI funding for research. One of the most interesting and important activities during my internship was my virtual participation in the CoP-30 meeting, as it is a very relevant event in the region in the area of global environmental change. In my time at the IAI, I managed to know a lot about science, politics and health, and strengthened my communication skills and scientific writing. I really want to thank the entire IAI team for the wonderful opportunity they gave me to be the first Mexican to participate in an internship at such a relevant institution.
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Yelim Lee
Country: Republic of Korea
Funded by: The Korean Ministry of the Environment for International Environmental Expert Training Program
Period: March to September 2021
The most precious moments I have experienced during a pandemic. In spite of working remotely, I got involved in various tasks. The internship was a great opportunity to learn about global environmental change, transdisciplinary research, and international governance. I reviewed annual reports of the Small Grants Program with the science director and made products of research projects such as project briefs and infographics. I also got to work with Science-Policy STeP Fellow and developed a contact list and stakeholder map for potential partners who support CEH2. Lastly, I had a chance to assist a meeting of the international organization through EC-51 and CoP-29. I am greatly appreciative of all the IAI staff, and I would like to say a special thank you to the Executive Director, who always has been passionate and supportive.
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Jinhyeok Ha
Country: República de Corea
Funded by The Korean Ministry of the Environment for International Environmental Expert Training Program
Period: Febrero a mayo de 2020
Working at the IAI was an unforgettable experience to me! This internship made me learn about climate change and, in particular, see closely environmental situations of South America than anyone. With the Capacity Building team, I mainly drafted grant proposals for funding agencies and assisted the team in the successful implementation of various seminars about environment including the STeP. I also conducted background research for potential funds from the Co-Impact. I am really grateful of this valuable opportunity and would like to say thank you for every staff in the IAI.
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Yun Gyeong Choi
Country: República de Corea
Funded by The Korean Ministry of the Environment for International Environmental Expert Training Program
Period: February - May 2020
Being a part of IAI is the most memorable experience I’ve ever had. During the internship, I mainly learned how to deal with international environmental issues in a global manner by working with the Executive Director. I arranged documents on the preparation of the 28th CoP and the 50th EC and managed them to be open source data accessible for anyone. I also supported the CRN3 with organizing its accomplishments. Moreover, I researched numeral data and processed it into graphics for the STeP proposal. The directors in IAI were always helpful and didn’t hesitate to involve me in the institute’s core tasks. I truly appreciate everything I’ve got from this beautiful and cozy city, Montevideo!
Soomin Kim
Country: Republic of Korea
Funded by: The Korean Ministry of the Environment for International Environmental Expert Training Program
Period: February to July 2019
“Working alongside the IAI directors, I was able to be a part of many exciting learning opportunities. With the Policy, Partnerships and Communications director, I was able to engage in various communications activities, especially the IAI interview series. I also assisted the Deputy Executive Director with capacity building activities, including the IPBES Youth Workshop and the upcoming Professional Development Seminar in Santa Fe. Lastly, I felt very privileged to be able to assist with the organization and attend the 27th Conference of the Parties held in Brasilia, through which I witnessed the international cooperation for global change research. I am truly thankful to all the members of the IAI for their support and guidance.“
Helen Gutiérrez
Country: USA & Costa Rica
Funded by: Christianson Grant, InterExchange Foundation
Period: September 7, 2018 – March 14, 2019
“This internship was a great opportunity for me to learn about international environmental governance and how intergovernmental organizations operate. During my time at the IAI, I worked primarily alongside the Deputy Executive Director on Capacity-Building and Fundraising activities. Most of my work consisted in drafting grant pre-proposals and project concept notes, researching potential capacity building activities, and exploring opportunities to build new partnerships with different funding agencies and organizations. One of the highlights of my experience was the chance to participate in the Science Diplomacy training as part of the CILAC 2018 activities which was a great learning and networking experience for me. I’m grateful and appreciative of the learning opportunities that I’ve had through the IAI and the mentorship that I’ve experienced while here.“
Eunjung Joy Kim
Country: Republic of Korea
Funded by the Korean Ministry of the Environment
Period: February to July 2018
“A once in a lifetime experience for me! I got to learn how international organizations work behind the scenes: every morning I would compile a list of global change related articles and distribute it to colleagues; made visual materials for our social media platforms; organized the pre-proposals that were sent for the Small Grant Program; and worked hard on the preparation of our Conference of the Parties in Guatemala with the logistics team. All my colleagues would highly appreciate my work and assistance. I sincerely thank all of the people who have made my life in Montevideo so valuable and unforgettable.”
Lourdes Ginart
Country: USA
Funded by:
– The University of Oregon’s Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies
– Tinker Foundation Fieldwork Grant
– Society of Women Geographer’s Evelyn L. Pruitt National Minority Fellowship
Period: August 27 to Septiembre 22, 2018
“My IAI internship was a great experience. The Directorate team is very supportive and provided me with priceless mentorship concerning my internship and academic goals, as well as professional development. Working alongside the Deputy Executive Director, I wrote project summaries for potential grants and funding opportunities, and explored possibilities for new partnerships and projects. I also experienced some of IAI’s capacity-building activities through participation and observation in seed grant trainings and workshops. In my capacity, I also researched best practices and theory concerning science diplomacy at IAI, as well as the interactions of IAI in the science-policy interface. Through this internship, I strengthened my proposal writing skills, social networking abilities, and qualitative research skills.”