Outreach and Southeast Asia Network for Development (SEANET)

Being placed in Outreach and SEANET unit gave me a diverse set of experience as I was able to work on a variety of different projects. Reports, research, database management and event organisation formed majority part of the work. Discussion session with US Trade Representative, Michael Froman and ASEAN Economy Community briefing with civil society organisations in Malaysia were among the events that I worked on. Assessment differed based on the nature of work and the unit that I worked with. I was given a lot of independence in terms of research as I worked on ASEAN related matters under SEANET.

Questions regarding liberalism principles as well as IDEAS core principles. Expect standard questions such as why you applied for IDEAS and what you want out of the internship.

It was an inspiring experience being able to work with such an amazing team. I learnt something from each and everyone in the team. From the organisation side, the biggest lesson for me was their independence and cross partisan stance which I found refreshing. The organisation`s principles are clearly reflected in their work and they have a clear set of values that they adhere to which is a big lesson for me. I also learned more about liberalism principles and market solutions through their work. My line manager and a few other colleagues imparted valuable lessons on professional development and working life which I appreciate immensely.

On the other hand, being able to work and learn from the top two people in the team, Wan Saiful and Tricia, was an equally humbling and eye opening experience on how IDEAS operate on a higher level. I would say it was a complete package of internship.

Yogi, my line manager was an amazing person to work with. He gave me a lot of guidance and feedback in the work that I did. The team in general are very supportive and open minded. They encouraged me to attend events that interested me and provided information on external events that I might be keen in which was very thoughtful.

The work pattern could be unpredictable at times as there could be an intensely busy period of events followed by a relatively quiet period with mostly being research work. It is advisable to learn to adapt to the changing pace of work and ask for help whenever needed.

The nature of work in Outreach and SEANET is quite different from that of Political Economy and Governance Unit (PEGU) as well as Education. Therefore it would be advisable to consider thoroughly before you choose the unit that you would like to work under. Otherwise be open to the opportunities that you have and make the full use of your time in IDEAS.