MCAI Internship

Meet Kate Slee - Fundraising Intern 2011

Why MCAI UK?

Whilst studying for my Nutrition Degree at Nottingham University I became interested in international nutritional issues and went on to develop a keen interest in International Development. I wanted to gain experience in the charity sector and in particular to intern at an international development charity. I was really excited to apply for MCAI because one of it’s focuses is maternal health; a key developmental area which I feel impacts greatly on many other areas of development.

Main responsibilities

I had a large variety responsibilities and tasks at MCAI which I found great as I feel I got a taste of many areas of fundraising and was always trying new things. A few of these included: database maintenance, thanking donors, developing resources and displays and tin collection maintenance. Advocacy is a part of MCAI’s work, and I had the opportunity to take part in a Development Day at Nottingham Trent University to present part of a presentation to students about Maternal Health and our projects.  I was additionally given a long term project to design and develop a fundraising pack for MCAI, which I really enjoyed the challenge of developing! 

Benefits

I really enjoyed my time at MCAI, everyone was very friendly and I was instantly made to feel part of the team. Working for MCAI I gained valuable experience in lots of areas of fundraising, I learnt a great deal about Maternal and Child Health as well as the functioning of charities.   I think I also improved many of my skills including administration, communication skills and presentation skills. Fundraising is quite a creative and inventive job, whilst at MCAI I started to think outside the box with ideas and develop my creative planning skills. This experience has been fantastic and has confirmed to me that I want to pursue a career working for an International Development organisation.

Tips for future interns

Just go for it, it’s a fantastic opportunity! Even if you feel like you don't know what you are doing you will learn a lot more if you have a go. Plus when you leave and are looking for work you will have loads to talk about which will impress at interviews. Lastly, enjoy it as the internship will fly by!

Let Kate tell you all about it...

MCAI are looking for a new fundraising intern for the new year! To apply please drop us a line at office@mcai.org.uk for the relevant application forms and job description. We can't wait to hear from you!