Volunteering abroad has boosted student’s international relations experience
Johanna Hoopes (CAS'06) coordinates international volunteer opportunities all over the world.
Johanna Hoopes (CAS ’06) started work in January at United Planet, a non-profit organization that sends students on volunteering “quests” and cultural immersions across the world. Her biggest challenge to date, she says, is developing the program in Kenya.
Hoopes began as an international development intern, but quickly earned the title of Project Coordinator for seven of the countries the small organization works with: Chile, Honduras, Costa Rica, Tanzania, Ghana, and Romania. She works closely with volunteers and in-country coordinators to send applications of potential volunteers abroad and then to create specific itineraries for the volunteers.
The Boston-based organization says that students who take advantage of the opportunity have a substantial advantage in the job market, particularly if they are interested in international relations.
Hoopes hopes to work in international development and economic consulting domestically or abroad after graduation in May. For now, she will continue to keep United Planet running while developing new programs for the organization.
Those interested in international relations seeking an internship with United Planet can email quest@unitedplanet.org.
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