Hey guys! Ever dreamt of working at the United Nations? It's not just a pipe dream; it's totally achievable through the United Nations Internship Program! Landing an internship at the UN can be a game-changer for your career, offering unparalleled exposure and experience on the global stage. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to ace your application and make your dream a reality. So, buckle up and let's dive in!

What is the United Nations Internship Program?

The United Nations Internship Program is a fantastic opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain firsthand experience in the world of international diplomacy and development. It’s designed to provide interns with a comprehensive understanding of the UN's goals, operations, and impact on global issues. Interns get to work alongside seasoned professionals, contributing to projects that address some of the most pressing challenges facing humanity. Whether it's supporting sustainable development, promoting human rights, or working on humanitarian assistance, you'll be part of a team that's making a real difference.

Why Intern at the UN?

Interning at the UN offers a plethora of benefits that can significantly boost your career prospects. For starters, it gives you a unique opportunity to apply your academic knowledge in a real-world setting. You'll be able to see how theories and concepts you've learned in the classroom translate into practical solutions on a global scale. Moreover, the UN internship program provides an invaluable networking platform, allowing you to connect with professionals from diverse backgrounds and build relationships that can last a lifetime. Imagine rubbing shoulders with diplomats, policy advisors, and experts in various fields – it's an incredible way to expand your horizons and open doors to future opportunities. The skills and experience you gain during your internship will undoubtedly make you a more competitive candidate in the job market, setting you apart from your peers and demonstrating your commitment to global issues. Plus, let's be honest, having the UN on your resume is a major flex!

Beyond the professional advantages, interning at the UN is a deeply enriching personal experience. You'll have the chance to immerse yourself in a multicultural environment, working alongside people from all corners of the globe. This exposure will broaden your perspective, enhance your cross-cultural communication skills, and foster a sense of global citizenship. You'll also gain a firsthand understanding of the complexities and challenges of international cooperation, as well as the importance of collaboration in addressing global issues. The experience can be truly transformative, shaping your values and inspiring you to become a more engaged and responsible global citizen. Moreover, you'll have the opportunity to live and work in a vibrant international city, experiencing new cultures, cuisines, and ways of life. Whether you're based in New York, Geneva, Vienna, or Nairobi, you'll have access to world-class museums, cultural events, and recreational activities, making your internship a truly unforgettable adventure.

Eligibility Criteria: Are You a Good Fit?

Before you get too excited, let's make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for the United Nations Internship Program. The UN has specific requirements to ensure that interns are well-suited for the program and can contribute meaningfully to its work. Generally, you need to be enrolled in a graduate program or have completed your undergraduate studies within the past year. However, the specific requirements may vary depending on the department or office you're applying to, so it's crucial to check the details carefully.

Key Requirements

• Enrollment: You must be enrolled in a graduate program (master’s or Ph.D.) or have completed your undergraduate studies within the last 12 months. Some internships may also accept students who are in their final year of undergraduate studies.
• Age: There is usually no strict age limit, but most interns are in their early to mid-twenties.
• Nationality: The UN accepts applications from students of all nationalities. However, some internships may have specific requirements or preferences based on the needs of the department or office.
• Language Skills: Fluency in either English or French is usually required, as these are the working languages of the UN Secretariat. Knowledge of other UN official languages (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, and Spanish) can be an asset.
• Field of Study: The required field of study varies depending on the internship. Common fields include international relations, political science, economics, law, social sciences, communications, and environmental studies. However, internships are also available in technical fields such as information technology, engineering, and statistics.
• Other Skills: Strong research, analytical, and writing skills are essential. You should also be able to work independently and as part of a team, and have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Proficiency in computer applications and data analysis tools can also be beneficial.

It’s super important to carefully read the internship description for each specific opportunity you're interested in. Requirements can differ widely between departments. For example, an internship with the Department of Economic and Social Affairs might require a strong background in economics and statistics, while an internship with the Office of Legal Affairs might require a law degree and experience in international law. Meeting these criteria is the first step to getting your foot in the door!

Finding the Right Internship: Where to Look

Okay, so you're eligible – awesome! Now, where do you find these amazing UN internships? The UN Careers website is your go-to resource. It lists all available internships across different UN departments and offices worldwide. You can filter by location, field of work, and other criteria to find the perfect match for your skills and interests.

Navigating the UN Careers Website

• Create an Account: First things first, create an account on the UN Careers website. This will allow you to save your searches, track your applications, and receive email notifications about new internship opportunities.
• Use Keywords: Use specific keywords related to your field of study and interests to narrow down your search. For example, if you're interested in human rights, try searching for