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Hart Career Center

Annika Fuller

EarthRights International Internship -Thailand

Annika relaxes at a street market
Annika Fuller is spending her summer with an internship in Thailand.

Name: Annika Fuller

Class: 2021

Major: Environmental Studies and Economics 

Hometown: Kansas City, Missouri 

Interning with: EarthRights International

Location: Chiang Mai, Thailand

Position: English Teacher

 

Environmental studies and economics double-major Annika Fuller ’21 is spending her summer as a Freeman Asia intern at EarthRights International in Thailand, teaching English and learning more about non-governmental organization (NGO) work. 


What are your everyday responsibilities as an intern?

As an intern, I have been working with Angela Roman ’20. We have been teaching English class in the morning and then taking notes on their content classes where they learn about what it means to be an Earth Rights Defender. Angela and I then prepare our next day lesson on what we believe will be best for the students. During the evening we open ourselves up for any questions the students may have over their homework, English, or life in America. 

 

How did you land this internship?

I "landed" this internship by applying for the Freeman Asia program. I also had a wonderful recommendation from my advisor, Abigail Jahiel.

 

What drew you to this internship?

I was drawn to this internship because I am very interested in NGO work, specifically when it has to do with the environment. Also, the idea that it is a school full of people who want to be there so they can go back to their communities and help with things that are intensely impacting their lives is incredible. 

 

 

Annika having fun
Annika Fuller says she has found the students exceptionally kind and welcoming.

How did IWU prepare you for succeeding as an intern?

IWU has prepared me to be a successful intern because of the information they have provided me in my classes. Also, by promoting curiosity and openness I am able to learn and improve as I work. 

 

What do you hope to gain from this internship experience as you look forward to being a student/professional?

I hope to gain a better understanding of the environmental problems that we are facing and those fighting those problems. I also hope to gain patience, flexibility, and empathy. Finally, I hope to discover if I want to work with an NGO in my future endeavors.

 

What's been a particularly rewarding experience as an intern?

Learning from the students has been the most rewarding part of this internship. They are extremely knowledgeable and motivated. It inspires me to help and learn from those who have different experiences than myself. The students are also exceptionally kind and welcoming. I will miss them when I leave. 

 

In your opinion, why is it important for students to experience internships?

Personally, I think students should experience internships to understand what they value in a career. Also, if a student is able to attend an internship that takes them out of their comfort zone, whether it be doing something new or being in a new place, then I think there are very few better ways to grow as a person and as a future employee.