UWA student Christina Then has contributed 100 hours towards the valuable work being done at leading not-for-profit group Anglicare WA, assisting the organisation to generate funding that supports the provision of critical support services across the state.
Christina completed the project through an internship with UWA’s McCusker Centre for Citizenship as a part of her studies in Psychology in Society, where she was partnered with Anglicare WA’s Philanthropy and Enterprise team.
Anglicare WA provide support, counselling and advocacy for people struggling with poverty, domestic violence, homelessness, grief, mental wellness and other forms of crisis or trauma.
“My internship involved assisting the Anglicare WA team with projects and grants that would significantly change the lives of at-risk individuals who are experiencing hardship,” said Christina.
While always having an interest in work that helps others, the internship gave Christina meaningful first-hand experience working with an organisation that supports the community.
“The highlight of the experience was being able to hear about the positive impact I made within the community. The spirited teamwork was especially rewarding as it inspired me to continue doing active work within the community,” she said.
Overcoming the challenges of working from home during COVID-19, Christina impressed the Anglicare WA team with her willingness to take on new tasks and produced work to a high standard.
“Christina was a wonderful addition to the team. During her time with us, she showed strong initiative, integrity and an earnest commitment to supporting others. Her work will continue to have a positive impact on the community long after the end of her internship,” said internship supervisor and Anglicare WA Grants and Reports Writing Officer, Sarah Oldfield.
Christina recommends a McCusker Centre for Citizenship internship to other students.
“Together with the Anglicare WA team, I was able to incorporate my interests into a positive experience that also contributed to my studies and future employability,” said Christina.
“If you want to do more than just work and study in your early University years, you should put yourself out there and try something different such as the McCusker Centre for Citizenship Internship. It puts you in a professional environment with a company that is aligned with your values, which motivates you towards future goals and aspirations,” she said.