Menno Simons College Blog

MSC graduate begins iternship at Embassy of Canada in Washington, D.C.

Posted by CMU Staff  |  Thursday, October 9, 2014 @ 12:03 PM

Photo courtesy Paula Ethans

As a recent graduate of the International Development Studies program at Menno Simons College (MSC), I was eager to find an environment to which I could apply the diverse set of skills and knowledge I had recently acquired.

This autumn I began an internship with the Embassy of Canada in Washington, D.C. As a part of the media relations section, I work closely with the Official Spokesperson of the Embassy, monitor media for the Ambassador, write reports on conferences, manage the Embassy’s social media, and help organize events.

In September 2015 I will begin my schooling at the University of Ottawa, studying International Law with a focus on gender policy.

Working for the Embassy of Canada and eventually studying at the University of Ottawa are both incredible opportunities. Two for which I can thank MSC and its professors and staff. The personal recommendations that were written for me undoubtedly aided me in the hiring and application processes.

I wish to use my experience from the Embassy and my knowledge from both of my degrees to work as an international lawyer in the Foreign Service or public sector organizations.

My years at MSC truly helped to shape my worldview, principles, and aspirations. I gained not just valuable insight to the inner workings and complexities of international development, but also invaluable perspectives on cross-cultural appreciation and ethical conduct.

I always knew I wanted nothing more than to help others, but it was my undergraduate experience that helped me realize the manner in which I want to better the world. A manner that is respectful, responsible, and sustainable.

Paula Ethans graduated from MSC in 2013 with a 3–year IDS degree