Administrative/HR Intern at International Justice Mission
Thailand
Global Development Studies major 2013
With a background in global development studies, Monson has spent the last year working with International Justice Mission in Thailand. In this role, she serves their administration, HR, finance, and church mobilization teams.
How does your time at SPU connect to the work you’re doing today?
Global development studies perfectly prepared me to work at an NGO. Studying political science, geography, economics, and business has suited me well and I really appreciate the variety of courses that built my degree. I have found that this background developed a strong ability for critical thinking, analysis, communication and problem solving that translate well into my current work.
Who made a difference in your SPU education?
I met with Dr. Kathleen Braden my freshman year to learn more about the GDS program. As I walked out of her office that day, I knew that global development was exactly the major I wanted to be in. Once I was accepted to GDS, Dr. Braden was my academic advisor and professor for many classes. As a student in her courses, I felt valued and supported by a professor who was not only extremely knowledgeable about the topics she was covering, but also incredibly intentional and aware of her students’ needs.
What advice do you have for students about life after graduation?
Give yourself a lot of grace. Life after graduation holds so many opportunities — which is incredibly exciting and overwhelming at the same time. Know that you come from undergrad with a solid foundation and a community that is cheering for you.
