Catherine Hallmich
Canada

My internship at UNEP's Regional Office for North America (UNEP RONA) was both enriching and insightful. This brief moment 'behind the scenes' gave me a better understanding of the difficulties surrounding international discussions on environmental issues. I also learnt about many projects undertaken not only by UNEP, but also by other UN agencies and inter-governmental organizations. I enjoyed working in close collaboration with UNEP RONA's staff, preparing conferences, travels to the US Geological Survey office in South Dakota, working with members of the Kenyan Government, and participating in countless events across the District.

Most importantly, this internship helped me shape and give perspective to my career goals. I have just completed a Master's degree in Environmental Engineering (water treatment) at McGill University in Canada. I would like to work in the field of water sanitation for health and development, and contribute to securing water resources in regions where water gives rise to political conflict. I am certain that my experience at UNEP RONA and the contacts I made there will come in handy during my job applications. At the moment, I am working on a documentary film about water pollution in China, and am preparing for a bicycle trip in Central America.