Podcast Summary: Into Africa – "Coffee Chat with Catherine: Unofficial Tips for Internships"

Release Date: May 1, 2025

In this insightful episode of Into Africa, hosted by Katherine Nzucki from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), listeners are treated to an engaging "coffee chat" with Darrell Lloyd, an intern at the Africa Program. The conversation delves into Darrell's journey, challenges, and invaluable tips for securing and excelling in internships within think tanks and policy research, particularly focused on African affairs.

1. Introducing Darrell Lloyd

The episode opens with Katherine welcoming Darrell Lloyd, who introduces himself as an intern at CSIS's Africa Program. Darrell shares his unique background, having grown up in Kenya and Rwanda before moving to the United States for higher education.

[00:58] Darrell Lloyd: "I was growing up in Kenya and Rwanda, and I'm happy to be here."

2. Inspiration to Focus on African Affairs

Katherine explores what motivated Darrell to concentrate his career on African affairs and international policy. Darrell attributes his passion to his diverse upbringing across Tanzania, Oman, and Eswatini, coupled with his longstanding interest in Model United Nations.

[01:28] Katherine Nzucki: "I was born and raised in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania... I was a big model United Nations nerd since I was in eighth grade."

3. Pivotal Moments in Research Approach

Katherine discusses transformative experiences that shaped her research methodology, highlighting the influence of exemplary educators and rigorous academic environments during her time at Bates College.

[02:24] Katherine Nzucki: "A great teacher helped us understand the power of a well-formed sentence... pushed me to keep working on my writing."

4. Navigating Challenges in Think Tank Roles

Transitioning from academic writing to the specialized writing required at CSIS posed significant challenges for Katherine, particularly in tailoring communications for policymakers and stakeholders. Additionally, moving from the quiet town of Maine to the dynamic environment of Washington D.C. introduced cultural adjustments.

[04:32] Katherine Nzucki: "Adjusting from college level writing to the very specific kind of writing we do at CSIS... having faith in myself was a bit of a challenge."

5. Unofficial Tips for Securing Internships

Katherine offers a wealth of advice for aspiring interns, emphasizing the competitive nature of the job market and the importance of perseverance.

• Apply Broadly: "It's a numbers game... the more you apply, the more opportunities you give yourself." [06:12]

• Attention to Detail: "Double, triple check your work... your cover letter is your first opportunity to make a really good impression." [06:12]

• Leverage Unique Experiences: "Be sure to add your lived experiences... play up to what makes you unique." [06:12]

• Engage with the Organization’s Work: "Read recent publications... show that you've engaged critically with their work." [06:12]

Katherine also cautions against relying solely on AI for cover letters, advocating instead for personalized and authentic writing.

[06:12] Katherine Nzucki: "Don't use ChatGPT for your cover letter... have a writing style, have a flair, have personality in your writing."

6. Networking Strategies and Etiquette

The discussion shifts to effective networking, with Katherine stressing the importance of reaching out confidently and preparing thoroughly for informational interviews.

• Proactive Outreach: "Shoot your shot to 100%... ask for a coffee chat." [19:10]

• Personalized Communication: "Introduce yourself and show you've done more than just skim their LinkedIn." [19:10]

• Be Present and Engaged: "Ask tailored questions... build connections that could lead to meaningful relationships." [21:02]

Katherine also highlights common mistakes to avoid, such as maintaining formality in initial communications and refraining from sharing unprofessional content on platforms like LinkedIn.

[22:15] Katherine Nzucki: "Always stay on the side of formality until you are told otherwise."

7. Maximizing Social Media for Professional Growth

Katherine shares her evolving perspective on LinkedIn, acknowledging its role in professional networking while advising caution in curating content.

[23:04] Katherine Nzucki: "Post what you are comfortable having reshared... think of it as a professional platform."

She warns against airing frustrations or sharing unpopular opinions on professional networks, advocating for maintaining a polished online presence.

8. Building Strong Research and Analytical Skills

Katherine and Darrell discuss essential habits for enhancing research capabilities, including:

• Staying Informed: "Reading the news... keeping me aware of what's happening." [25:06]

• Engaging with Experts: "Send out emails to professionals who are experts in this field... learn from people actively in the field." [25:06]

• Collaborative Research: Reflecting on their work related to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, they emphasize the value of firsthand insights from organizations like the UN Refugee Agency.

9. Qualities of Standout Interns

In concluding their conversation, Katherine outlines the key attributes that make interns excel and transition into full-time roles:

• Attention to Detail: "Ensuring your work is good, understandable, clean." [28:08]

• Consistency: "Reliably, consistently... people will give you more and more tasks." [28:08]

Darrell adds that multitasking and broadening one’s knowledge beyond their specialization can significantly enhance an intern's effectiveness and versatility.

[29:26] Darrell Lloyd: "Multitasking is definitely a very important skill to have as an intern."

10. Final Thoughts on Networking and Professional Growth

Both Katherine and Darrell emphasize the importance of networking not just for career advancement but also for building lasting professional relationships and friendships within the field.

[32:08] Darrell Lloyd: "Taking the time to really engage with their work, they will truly appreciate it."

[32:40] Katherine Nzucki: "Talk to your mate... phenomenal friendships are formed here at CSIS."

Conclusion

This episode of Into Africa offers a comprehensive guide for aspiring interns in the field of African affairs and international policy. Through practical advice on applications, networking, and skill-building, Katherine Nzucki and Darrell Lloyd provide listeners with the tools and insights needed to navigate the competitive landscape of think tank internships successfully.