UWA Master of Information Technology student, Amrita Manoj, gained valuable real-world experience while making a difference with ERICA Women’s Centre through her recent McCusker Centre for Citizenship internship.
“I applied for an internship because I wanted to use my technical skills in a way that supported the community - the McCusker Centre works closely with not-for-profits, so I felt it would be a good chance to give back while also learning. As an international student, I also really wanted to see how Australian organisations work and get some insight into the workplace culture here, while contributing in my own way,” Amrita said.
Matched with a role with ERICA Women’s Centre (formerly Midland Women’s Health Care Place), Amrita helped with a data transfer project, setting up a SharePoint site and processes for staff to use it.
“I designed and organised the file and folder structure, implemented role-based access for staff, archived older records, and drafted guidebooks so staff could use the new systems confidently. I completed this project by the middle of my internship, and was able to support the team with addition IT and admin work including creating a digital visitor check-in for reception, setting up new laptops for staff, and undertaking research for the organisations upcoming tech needs,” Amrita said.
Linda Malone, ERICA Women’s Centre CEO, nominated Amrita for the McCusker Centre for Citizenship Outstanding Intern Award, in recognition of the practical impact of her efforts and her dedication to supporting the Centre through her 100-hour internship.
“Amrita’s contribution reduced the administration burden on staff and improved the overall efficiency of the organisation considerably, resulting in more time that staff will be able to dedicate to engaging with clients,” Ms Malone said.
“Amrita went above and beyond the initial brief and the reference material she created mean that the benefits of her time here will continue into the future.”
While her internship made an immediate positive difference for her host organisation and the community they serve, the experience gave Amrita new perspectives on community-focussed work and the role of digital technology.
“The internship gave me a real appreciation for how vital digital systems are in the not-for-profit sector, where resources are limited but the community impact is so important,” she said.
“I also gained a deeper understanding of the incredible work ERICA Women’s Centre does in providing counselling and domestic violence support services. I saw firsthand that the staff genuinely care about making people’s lives better, and being able to contribute even in a small way to that mission made me feel proud and motivated.
“I really improved my problem-solving and planning skills through the internship, and my communication got better too, because I had to explain things clearly and check in with staff. It gave me a big confidence boost, and reminded me that the effort I put in, even though it’s behind the scenes, can have a real impact. Overall, I feel like I’ve become a lot more proactive, and those are all skills I’ll definitely carry into my future IT roles.”