I spent the better part of my year in the Munk One program tackling ‘big questions’. In lecture, we explored global problems ranging from cyber security to poverty alleviation. In lab, we proposed our own innovations to improve the lives of the communities affected by these pervasive issues. At the end of the year, we were encouraged to take our learning ‘beyond the classroom’ through a variety of summer programs. I had the opportunity to apply what I learned through an internship abroad.

On the Nile River in Masindi District, Uganda

This past summer, I had the privilege of working with a Ugandan NGO. The organization focuses on protecting, training, and advocating on behalf of human rights defenders in 11 countries. By far, the highlight of my internship was my trip to Gulu, a region terrorized by Joseph Kony and the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). I accompanied two co-workers conducting a training for human rights defenders in the district. The training was designed to equip grassroots human rights defenders with the skills to protect themselves in order to continue their vital work. During the training, I was able to meet 30 human rights defenders from Northern Uganda, who promote child, land, environmental, LGBTQ+ plus, and women’s rights, in face of overwhelming persecution.

Exploring Gulu’s open air market

My summer wasn’t all work. I was able to check out other parts of Uganda and I even managed to squeeze in a trip to Somalia. Overall, my summer abroad was an enriching experience. I was able to witness first-hand both the impacts and the logistics behind innovative programs. Together, Munk One and my internship have taught me that innovation is about identifying the core of an issue and filling that void.

Visiting Jazeera Beach, Somalia