Careers Centre internship: Daria Krasnodembskaya
Daria Krasnodembskaya shares her experiences of her internship at the University of St Andrews Careers Centre.
My story: Daria Krasnodembskaya
- Course: French with International Relations (WIYA)
- Year of study when you completed this internship: 3rd year
- Internship: University of St Andrews, Careers Centre
Why did you apply for the internship? What were you hoping to gain?
After completing my year abroad, I recognized the importance of gaining experiences in the academic world. Having thoroughly enjoyed my studies the past few years, I was really excited to gain perspective on how I can apply my skills in a sector of work beyond my subjects. I was truly putting the ‘transferability’ of my subjects to the test.
Tell us about your internship, where was it and what did you do (what kind of roles/tasks etc)?
For the 6 weeks, I undertook a virtual internship with the Careers Centre where I worked with the Employability unit. Within this team, I was introduced to the various employability programs which are run by the university for students. This was very exciting as I was able to see how they are created, how they are monitored, how are they improved. Most of my tasks involved analyzing these opportunities and working on their amelioration. How these tasks were carried out varied from conduction of surveys, holding interviews, reading academic papers, and much more.
What were the best bits, what did you enjoy most and and what are the key memorable experiences you will take from the internship?
Every week of my internship also brought a great deal of excitement. Nevertheless, the most memorable experience involved the process of concept mapping for the organisation of the Your Future Start Now programme 2023. This was a fascinating task as I learnt a new method of communicating ideas but I was also given the opportunity to show what my fellow students would like to gain from these events. The feeling of contributing to change brought great confidence and enthusiasm to continue the process.
What skills did learn and how did you put them into practice during the internship?
This internship allowed me to improve my organsiational skills, especially in an independent environment.
Due to the virtual nature of the internship, I had to ensure I maintained a balance between my work and life, but also that I fulfilled my work tasks for the week. Having weekly meetings with my manager always acted as motivation. Furthermore, communication with various actors in the university was a consistent feature throughout the 6 weeks. Consequently, I was able to solidify my professionalism in the workplace and build relationships.
What is next for you in your career journey?
As already mentioned, after being abroad and returning back to academic life, I recognise that I still have a lot to learn and that there are many places in the world that Iwould like to see. As a result, currently I am aiming to try as many employability opportunities as possible in hopefully various parts of the world to ensure I am capable to adapt to various work tasks and work environments.
What would you say to someone considering signing up for an internship at the University of St Andrews?
After working so closely with the Careers Centre, I appreciate this opportunity more than ever before. The various internships available truly allow you to see how you can utilise what you already know and teach you about new subjects, skills,etc. Summer Internships ease you in and build your confidence to then go beyond the walls of University and the three streets of our lovely town.