Public Affairs Intern Review

My main objective for my internship was to arrange for parliamentarians to visit Cancer Research UK shops across the Devolved Nations. This would involve liaising with the parliamentarian, the shop and corresponding team. I was also involved in event planning in Northern Ireland, which involved research, scheduling, room organisation and budgeting.

This internship more than anything has improved my confidence and organisation skills. I’d often be juggling different jobs for 3 different nations, plus event planning on top of that. I’ve improved my communication and written skills, as well as my time management and team-working skill.

One thing I appreciated about this internship was the level of trust and responsibility, I was often allowed to complete tasks how I saw fit and that decision was trusted by the entire team. While I was given a lot of support and advice, this really helped develop my independence.

I would have a daily catch up calls with my managers where they would give new tasks that needed done, provided feedback and answered any questions I had. Similarly, I would have weekly calls with everyone else in the Devolved Nations, and with the Public Affairs team in general. Everyone was always really helpful and supportive, I never once felt like I couldn’t ask for help.

Everyone at Cancer Research UK has been incredibly nice and welcoming, there would be events such as department away-days planned to allow fun and, from my understanding, a good level of social activities through the week. That being said, as a remote worker I wouldn’t say I got the full picture of the company culture or atmosphere. The culture and atmosphere was still very good, but it is important to note the difference between being a remote vs an in-person employee.

This internship has allowed me to grow so much in a short time and I’m very grateful for everyone who I worked with over my time at CRUK. There are so many resources and help provided that have been incredibly useful. I’ve made great connections with people and has allowed me to develop both professional and interpersonal skills.

Yes

Make the most of it! It’s an incredible opportunity with a great charity but you’re only going to get as much as you put in! Rely on your line managers and the rest of your team, at the end of the day they are there to guide you and help you develop.