I am Marion Trebalage and I am currently majoring in International Cooperation, Global Affairs, and Policy at Yonsei Graduate School of International Studies. East Asia Institute is my first experience in a research institute, and it was ideal to get a direct insight into the functioning of think tanks.

I had the opportunity to be included in the ADRN project about Myanmar and the February 2021 coup d’état. I could conduct in-depth research about the diplomatic implications in the East Asian region and the international community. Additionally, I followed the news daily to write weekly reports about the Myanmar crisis. I also provided support for translating interviews, preparing questions, researching about pro-democratic activists and their activities. I am particularly grateful that I have been able to take part in the project, through this experience I had the opportunity to apply concepts I have learned during my studies in my work. Moreover, I could hear various perspectives, from scholars to public authorities and civil activists. I could acquire a comprehensive understanding of the complex situation in Myanmar and its impact on international relations.

Additionally, interns oversee the EAI.People project on Instagram. I particularly enjoyed this task because I could develop my teamwork and communication abilities as we had the entire responsibility for the project. Our team was highly diverse, and it was stimulating to share different perspectives and cultivate the open-mindedness necessary in international studies. I could also expand my language skills through translations from Korean to English and improve my writing skills by summarizing webinars and news articles.

Interning at EAI offers space to grow new competencies, explore innovative ideas and enhance research skills beyond the academic scope. I highly recommend the EAI internship for getting extensive knowledge about international relations in East Asia and its connection with the global community. I am grateful to the staff for welcoming us warmheartedly and including us in various projects. I would add special thanks to my mentor and the internship manager, Ms. Jun, for her availability and support during my time at EAI.