Jared Browne gained transferable skills in cross-cultural communication, organization, and time management as an intern at International Rescue Committee.
How did you get your internship?
I secured my internship at the International Rescue Committee (IRC) late into the summer after mass-applying to a variety of organizations. I was determined to gain professional experience, so I cast a wide net and applied to as many positions as possible to have an internship for the fall semester. The IRC responded and offered me a role late in the summer, which I was grateful for because it turned out to be a meaningful and impactful experience. This process taught me the importance of persistence and being open to unexpected opportunities, even when they come later than expected.
What new skills did you practice and develop in this internship?
During my internship at the International Rescue Committee, I developed strong communication, problem solving, and organizational skills. Working with refugees required me to adapt my communication style to be clear and empathetic, often bridging language and cultural barriers. I also honed my ability to work collaboratively in a professional, cross-cultural environment and strengthened my cultural competency skills as I assisted clients in navigating complex systems such as employment, housing, and healthcare. Additionally, I improved my time management and multitasking abilities, balancing client needs with administrative tasks effectively.
How was the internship related to your Applied Humanities degree?
The internship directly aligned with my Applied Humanities degree because it emphasized cultural awareness, empathy, and practical problem solving in real world contexts. Applied Humanities teaches us to approach challenges from a human centered perspective, and at the IRC, I applied this by helping refugees adjust to life in the United States. This role allowed me to connect theoretical concepts like cultural integration and community building to real life situations, giving me firsthand experience in fostering resilience and inclusivity.
What did you find challenging about your internship?
One of the most challenging aspects of my internship was dealing with self doubt and constantly questioning whether I was doing things the right way. Working with refugees, I felt a strong responsibility to provide the best support possible, and I often second guessed my decisions to ensure I wasn’t missing any details or opportunities to help them. While this self questioning was difficult at times, it taught me the value of seeking feedback, trusting my training, and giving myself grace to learn and grow. I realized that it’s okay to not have all the answers immediately. What matters is approaching challenges with empathy, patience, and a willingness to improve. This experience ultimately helped me become more confident and resilient in professional settings.
How did your Applied Humanities major coursework help prepare you for the internship experience?
My Applied Humanities coursework provided a strong foundation in critical thinking, empathy, and intercultural communication. For example, in my Applied Humanities Practice course (PAH 201) I interviewed someone experiencing food insecurity, which helped me develop sensitivity to vulnerable populations and understand systemic challenges they face. Similarly, my experience writing cover letters in the Pre-Internship course (PAH 383) taught me to communicate professionally and effectively, skills I used daily when advocating for clients at the IRC. These assignments strengthened my ability to work independently, think critically, and remain resilient, especially when handling unexpected challenges.
How has your internship experience influenced your plans for your future?
While I enjoyed my time at the IRC and found the work meaningful, it did not significantly change my long term career goals. The experience reinforced my ability to communicate effectively, adapt to new challenges, and work with diverse groups, but I realized that my interests still lie in pursuing a career in sales or marketing. The skills I developed during the internship like building relationships, understanding different perspectives, and managing multiple tasks are highly transferable to these fields. I feel confident that the experience has strengthened my professional foundation, even as I focus on roles that align with my passion for business, strategy, and client engagement.
What advice do you have for other students as they begin their internship?
My advice for other students is to approach their internship with curiosity, flexibility, and confidence in their abilities. It’s natural to feel nervous or unsure at the start, but trust in the skills and knowledge you’ve gained from your coursework and previous experiences. Being proactive in seeking opportunities to learn, ask questions, and get feedback from supervisors or colleagues is one of the best ways to grow. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone or make mistakes, as both are opportunities for growth. Lastly, remember the bigger picture: focus on the impact you’re making and the people you’re helping. The challenges you face during your internship will teach you resilience, adaptability, and the importance of showing up with empathy and dedication.