Broadening Horizons with ASEAN Internship Programme (AIP): Gaining Real-World Experiences in Jakarta
The ASEAN Internship Programme (AIP) offers SMU students the chance to gain first-hand experience working in a different culture. This summer, Deivanai Duryraju and Cosette Wong interned in Jakarta – Deivanai with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and Cosette with Sequis Life. Both students gained valuable insights into their fields while adapting to a unique work culture.
Internships are often more than just a foot in the door—they are a chance to explore, grow, and truly immerse oneself in new environments. For two SMU students, Deivanai Duryraju and Cosette Wong, their ASEAN Internship Programme (AIP) experiences in Jakarta from May to August 2024 were just that: opportunities to gain first-hand knowledge of a new culture while making impactful contributions, allowing them to move closer to their career aspirations.
Learning in the field with UNHCR and Sequis Life
For Deivanai, interning with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) was an eye-opener. Tasked with assisting refugees with visa and documentation paperwork, and serving as a Tamil interpreter for Sri Lankan refugees, she witnessed the remarkable strength and resilience of individuals facing difficult circumstances.
As a Bachelor of Social Science undergraduate majoring in Sociology, Deivanai was able to balance empathy with organisational goals, and the experience deepened her resolve to pursue a career in the non-governmental organisation (NGO) sector. Interacting with refugees not only provided her with valuable insights into the field, but also reinforced her passion for humanitarian work.
Meanwhile, Cosette took on a role with Sequis Life, one of Indonesia's top insurance companies, as part of its Internal Audit team.
Here, the Accounting undergraduate dove into auditing processes, engaging with Heads of Departments and gaining a first-hand, comprehensive view of Indonesia's business landscape along the way. This experience extended beyond learning technical skills; it also allowed Cosette to build meaningful connections with local colleagues, who generously shared insights into Indonesian culture and customs.
Overcoming challenges, embracing change
As with working in any other country, adjusting to Jakarta's work culture presented some unique challenges for Deivanai and Cosette, even with their prior preparations. From a more relaxed approach to time management to new ways of collaboration, the interns gradually learnt to navigate the differences.
Before embarking on the internship, Deivanai had picked up a few key phrases in Bahasa Indonesia for daily interactions. Nevertheless, as the language was the primary language of communication in both workplaces, both she and Cosette had to quickly adapt to using it in their daily tasks, often relying on translation tools and seeking clarification from colleagues to ensure effective communication.
Throughout the internship, Deivanai also faced the challenge of balancing the emotional weight of her work with organisational expectations. This experience taught her invaluable lessons in resilience and adaptability, equipping her for future endeavours.
Exploring cultural journeys in vibrant Indonesia
Exploring Indonesia was a key highlight for both Deivanai and Cosette. On weekends, they ventured to bustling cities like Bandung, Yogyakarta, and the serene Pulau Seribu. From witnessing the breathtaking sunrise at Kawah Putih in West Java to marvelling at UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Borobudur and Prambanan Temples near Yogyakarta, each journey deepened their appreciation for the country’s rich cultural heritage.
In addition to professional growth, the internships also fostered meaningful personal connections. For instance, Deivanai found herself a very welcoming colleague, who introduced her to the sights of her hometown in Bandung. Another memorable moment involved a local helping her navigate a tricky translation to order food, turning a challenge into a cherished experience. The students’ newfound friendships with locals, combined with their experiences in local markets and trying delicious dishes, turned their summer into an unforgettable adventure.
An opportunity to embark on a journey of growth
The ASEAN Internship Programme (AIP) offers SMU students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in diverse cultures while gaining valuable insights into the work environments across the ASEAN region. This overseas internship programme enables students to fulfil two crucial graduation requirements: global exposure and internship.
If you're looking to explore the world and enhance your professional and personal growth, the AIP could be the perfect fit for you.
Keen to learn more about AIP? Click here to explore the available internships and sign up for an experience that could shape your future!
