UWA Bachelor of International Relations student Grace Lote applied for a McCusker Centre for Citizenship internship to gain practical experience in a professional workplace and to better understand how organisations contribute to the community.
That interest led Grace to the Department of Energy and Economic Diversification (DEED), where she joined the Strategic Partnerships and Trade Policy team. DEED leads Western Australia’s economic development, trade and investment, and works to promote the state’s key industries and international connections. Through her internship, Grace gained insight into how policy and research support the state’s engagement with global partners.
Grace’s main task involved completing detailed country overviews for different regions. This work required her to research across multiple databases and consolidate complex information into clear, structured documents.
“My role really helped me understand how the department operates and how its work makes a positive contribution to the WA community,” she said. “It was also very beneficial to my studies in international relations, as I could see how concepts from my degree are applied in practice.”
In addition to the country overviews, Grace worked on several other projects across DEED. She helped develop a master register to collate whole-of-state government information, attended online webinars and took notes to share with her team, contributed to a research project, and supported the Projects and Events team in delivering a number of high-level functions. The variety of work gave her exposure to different teams and responsibilities within DEED.
“A highlight for me was how welcoming and supportive everyone was,” Grace said. “I really enjoyed meeting colleagues from different teams and learning about their work and its impact on the WA economy and communities.”
Reflecting on her experience, Grace said the internship has equipped her with skills and knowledge she will continue to use throughout her studies and professional career.
“I would wholeheartedly recommend the McCusker Centre for Citizenship internship to future students,” she said. “It provided me with an amazing experience and real-world skills that I know I’ll continue to draw on in the future.”
Image: Grace with members of the DEED Projects and Events Team
From Left: Donna Christie, Kelly Wells, Amy Mitchelson. Linda Barry, Emma O'Neil and McCusker Centre for Citizenship intern Grace Lote