This summer Garrett Heilman '08 started an internship at the World Trade Center Tacoma and has served as the thin edge of the wedge--with Colleen Gause '06 working there, and our expanding internship presence, I fully expect PG to colonize their organization and reign supreme over our..er...rivals to the south:
After learning about the opportunity to intern at the World Trade Center Tacoma (WTCTA) I applied/interviewed/and on the June 1st I started. The WTCTA is a small office, we currently have 4 full time staff positions and the rest of the office is composed of interns. When I started we had over 7 interns. Almost all of which were international students, [most from PLU :( ]. Working with students from other countries is pretty amazing, especially in a work environment where the job is discussing international economic/political issues. My eyes were certainly further opened by the different understandings of these issues each student brought with her/him. These understandings were most helpful in learning how each student identified their nations international economic/political interests.
Anyways, the WTCTA mission essentially is to promote trade. We do that in a number of ways; We provide events that are invaluable networking opportunities for businesses (and students if you play your cards right), training courses for businesses to learn about exporting/importing, and do trade research for WTC members. As an intern you certainly have your share of menial/administrative tasks. However, the small size of the office means that the interns also get a large share of responsibility. For example, I have written a trade/policy brief to the Secretary of State Sam Reid on trade relations between Washington and Thailand. I have also helped a business become fair trade certified. My point is that unlike other internships, at the WTCTA you get the opportunity to produce significant work that you can point to, to demonstrating your skills for potential employers. Moreover, you get great opportunities to continue your education outside of the academic setting. Recently, we held an international trade certificate course where every intern was able to participate in the three-day event and become certified. In addition to being a great resume builder, the course bridged some of the gaps between theory and the application of that theory.
If anyone is looking for an internship please do not hesitate to e-mail me. Fall internships are still available, and we’re looking to take back the office from PLU.
P.S all internship positions are unpaid."
Looking for an internationally-focused internship in Tacoma? Look no further.
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