“In 2020, the world stopped…”
Daesha, Criminology, Mines Action Canada, South Sudan, South Sudan Action Network on Small Arms (SSANSA)
A global pandemic took over all our lives. For the past two and a half years, we have had to make adjustments in order to conform to the new health and safety guidelines in order to keep everyone safe. When it comes to the international internship offered at Ottawa this meant transferring the program to virtual platforms. Due to virtual learning and all my internship being behind a screen I have noticed a change in my motivation and mental health. The most important thing I have learned throughout the past five weeks is understanding when I need to put myself first. Now you may be wondering, what does putting yourself first mean to you? I'm not suggesting that I forget my responsibilities and take a short vacation. However, what this does mean is knowing my limits. If I know that I am being overworked and spreading myself too thin, I know that it is okay to take a break. This usually consists of me taking a day off the computer and participating in the activities that make me happy. This includes working out, spending time with my family, and cooking. There have been some instances throughout the internship where I've had to do this. For those that make themselves feel guilty of this time, I would like to remind you that you owe these moments to yourself. You are doing amazing!
WORK - LIFE BALANCE
Not only am I a full-time intern and student, I also have four other jobs that I commit to every week. This may seem overwhelming; I have developed a system that keeps me grounded.
- Keep a planner - This ensures I am keeping up with due dates and work schedules.
- Time Allocation - When I know it's going to be a busy week. I give myself a timed scheduled for each task to keep up with my work
- Eat Well and Stay Active - I understand that I need to take care of my body in order to be as busy as I am. Therefore, I try to eat clean and workout three times a week
- Knowing What You Can Handle - Prioritize what is most important and don't take on anything extra that doesn't fulfill your happiness or career
- One Thing You Love - Do one thing a day that makes you feel your best!
Having work life balance does not mean you have it all figured out. However, helpful tips that bring an equilibrium between both sides, will help your overall health.
WEEK 5 REFLECTION
Due to connection issues with my supervisor, I started my internship later than everyone else. Below I have attached a list of my highlights and accomplishments thus. I hope this becomes longer in the weeks ahead!
- Exploring the South Sudan profiles on the Landmine Monitor, Nuclear Ban Monitor, and Explosive Weapons Monitor
- Reviewing the Lethal Autonomous Weapons course for Erin Hunt. This is orchestrated by the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs. Throughout the course, I learned what is classified as an autonomous weapon/identifying their risk, the role of the UNODA when addressing these issues, and international efforts that look to regulate the development of lethal autonomous weapons
- Completed the Geneva Centre for Humanitarian Demining courses (GCHD). I am now more knowledgeable on explosive ordnance risk, and understanding gender diversity in Mine Action
- Attended the ATT Working Group Meetings that will discuss Articles 6,7,9, and 11 of the Arms trade Treaty
- Created social media content for SSANSA and their stakeholder dialogues about community safety
TIPS FOR FUTURE INTERNS ...
- Do not be afraid to ask questions to all your supervisors. It is ok to feel lost and not understand what is being asked of you. Take advantage of the resources you have so that you can get the clarification you need to be successful
- Complete all the assigned courses and readings, or you will be behind
- Do not panic! Sometimes the assignments can be content heavy, but do not overwhelm yourself. Organize your time so that you can complete the task at a good pace
- Take time for yourself. Sitting in front of a screen all day has been a major challenge for me. This is not what I expected my university experience to be like. I make sure to take one day of the week to step away from the screen.