Securing Internships in Human Rights Law: A Step-by-Step Guide

Mar 05, 2024

Written By Megan Hornsby

Internships are a stepping stone to achieving a long term career within human rights law. These opportunities offer more than just professional experience; they provide practical skills, professional development and networking opportunities. In this article, we will provide guidance on how to secure an internship in the field.

Get researching

Human rights law can be tricky to find an internship in as an undergraduate as often they are linked to master's programmes or require years of experience in the field. Online platforms such as university career services, Indeed and Bright Network are great places to start. You can also keep checking the jobs board of relevant companies, such as Amnesty International. Furthermore, never underestimate LinkedIn as a platform to find unique internships and programmes.

Attending career fairs, networking events, and informational sessions is also crucial for staying abreast of available opportunities and making valuable connections.

Crafting a standout CV

Your CV serves as a reflection of your dedication to human rights and how your skills can benefit the organisation. Tailor all aspects of your application to both highlight your suitability for the role but also commitment to the field. Highlight relevant coursework, work experiences, and volunteering opportunities that underscore your commitment to social justice. Emphasising legal skills (i.e research, advocacy, and critical analysis) showcases your readiness to tackle complex human rights challenges.

Don’t forget the softer skills often developed through non-law roles such as active listening, patience, and resilience. Human rights law can often throw mentally challenging cases and tasks. Therefore, being able to demonstrate examples where you have overcome challenging scenarios and demonstrated empathy for clients is vital.

Finally, incorporating action verbs and quantifiable achievements is a great way to showcase your capabilities.

Developing a strong application strategy

One size does not fit all when it comes to internship applications. It is imperative to tailor application materials for each opportunity, including drafting personalised cover letters that demonstrate genuine interest and alignment with the organisation's mission. Thorough research on the organisation's focus areas, recent projects, and key initiatives is essential for crafting targeted applications that resonate with potential employers.

To ensure your application is of the highest calibre it is good practice to reach out to current employees and/or the hiring manager to seek further advice. Setting up a phone call or asking questions via email is a great way to gain specific knowledge of the firm.

Networking and building relationships

In every experience you have within the field, cultivate a positive professional reputation by demonstrating integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to ethical practice. Invest in continuous learning and skill development to stay abreast of emerging legal trends and human rights developments.

Networking plays a pivotal role in advancing your career in human rights law. Leverage alumni networks, professional associations, and online platforms to connect with advocates and scholars in the field. Seek mentorship from practitioners whose insights and experiences can guide you in navigating complex ethical, legal, and strategic challenges.

Mastering the interview process

Successful candidates invest time in researching the organisation, its work and culture. The first question is normally, “why this organisation”. My tip is to provide a three-point answer outlining 1) the recent work which the firm has acted in, 2) why you are interested in the work and 3) how your skills are a good fit for the organisation.

In your preparation, also remind yourself of the skills the job description asked for and think of ways you can showcase these examples. It’s also important to research one to two news articles which you have recently read and think about how they impact the work of the firm. The articles can be global or local but think critically about how the work of the organisation may be impacted by recent developments.

During the interview, never forget to show your passion for human rights law and commitment to social justice. Also look to conduct mock interviews with peers, mentors, or career advisors to practise answering questions under pressure.

Following up after interviews

The post-interview phase is critical for maintaining professionalism and reinforcing interest in the internship position. Sending a timely thank-you email expressing appreciation for the interview opportunity is essential as well as thanking the interviewers for their time. In the event of no response within a reasonable timeframe, a polite follow-up email inquiring about the status of the application is warranted.

If you receive a rejection, don’t forget to ask for feedback. The worst the hiring manager will ever say is no.

Conclusion

Securing an internship in human rights law requires dedication, perseverance, and strategic planning. From identifying opportunities and crafting standout CVs and cover letters to mastering interviews and following up with professionalism, success in securing a human rights internship is within reach.

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