Our Internship Journey at Leiden International Centre: Gwen and Michelle
It was pure coincidence that we both started our internships at Leiden International Centre in September, but what a five months it has been. Together, we contributed to the team, learned so much, and built a friendship that we will always treasure.
Michelle (left): I’m from Italy and just graduated with my bachelor's degree in psychology at Leiden University and wanted some real-world experience before starting my master’s in Economic and Consumer Psychology.
Gwen (right): I’m from Aruba and currently finishing my final year of European Studies in The Hague. My internship was part of my study programme and, yes, writing my thesis was part of the deal.
Why Leiden International Centre?
Our paths to choosing this internship could not have be more different.
Gwen: I first heard about the Centre at a career event at school. Visiting their stand was inspiring and I knew immediately that I had to apply.
Michelle: For me, I found the Centre’s website invaluable when I was navigating life in the Netherlands. Checking if they were accepting interns felt like a no-brainer.
Different Goals, Shared Experience
We also started our internships with different goals in mind.
Michelle: I had a clear vision of the path I wanted to take in the future, but I had no office experience yet. That is what encouraged me to learn quickly and approach new challenges.
Gwen: My main focus was completing my internship, learning as much as possible, and writing my thesis on the organisation.
Despite our different starting points, many of our tasks overlapped. We both worked on social media, newsletters, website updates, events, and the helpdesk. These shared responsibilities highlighted our personality traits and our different approaches to work and even life. It was interesting to see how our strengths complemented each other, as we each found enjoyment and focus on different working styles.
Michelle: As someone social and outspoken, I especially loved the fast-paced, creative side of managing social media.
Gwen: I’m quieter and more reserved and so I really enjoyed writing newsletter articles at a slower, more structured pace.
Additionally, we were part of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee, where we helped redesign its webpage and learned more about how inclusive initiatives operate.
Skills and Personal Growth
The skills we’ve gained have been incredible.
Gwen: I got to put my communication, creativity, and teamwork skills into practice in a real professional setting.
Michelle: I learned about professional behaviour, navigating a real office, and even got a first glimpse of what job interviews are really like.
But it was our personal growth that really stood out.
Michelle: Being welcomed into a supportive team from day one taught me that stepping out of your comfort zone brings the richest insights.
Gwen: I went from being shy and reserved to feeling more assertive and prouder of my achievements.
What We Take with Us
The one thing we will never forget is the people. The team has been incredible, encouraging, supportive, and inspiring.
Michelle: We did not just gain experience, we gained confidence, skills, and a sense of what is possible when you embrace the unknown.
Gwen: I could not agree more. The guidance, flexibility, and opportunities to try new things made this internship truly enriching.
In the end, even though we came here for different reasons, we leave with similar lessons, invaluable experiences, and most importantly, a wonderful friendship.