Sarah Kane is in the Class of 2021 and she’s pursuing a Public Policy major, a History minor, and the Human Rights certificate. She spent the summer after her freshman year with the Duke Middle East in Europe program in Berlin, Germany.
On why she decided to do this program...
“I’d decided to do Duke in Rome for Summer Term 1 and was looking for something different to do during the second half of the summer. I wanted to partake in a program that was more aligned with my field of study and academic interests. I told a friend that I was searching for a second program and they mentioned this program, which they’d applied to. The program’s unique focus on migration paired with its location convinced me to apply, too.”
On how her skills or knowledge have changed thanks to the program...
“I learned a ton about the complicated histories of Europe and the Middle East, and about contemporary migrant communities and concerns in Germany, with an emphasis on Turkey. I really enjoyed delving into a subject that I’d previously studied because I gained a new perspective. Dr. Banu Gökarıksel and Dr. Erdağ Göknar did a great job coordinating this pilot program with an NGO—Kiron—which works on accessibility to higher education for refugees through technology. Us students were given the opportunity to intern with this NGO in various departments. My specific department was Donors Relation, where I worked on grant writing, researching funds and connections, and maintaining crowdfunding sites. I was thrilled to discover what it’s like working at an NGO.”
On how this program will play into the rest of her undergraduate experience...
“This program has already impacted my academic trajectory. I’ve officially decided to pursue the Human Rights certificate and my focus is issues of migration. This summer, I’ll be participating at the DukeEngage in Serbia, where I’ll be working with another NGO that focuses on human rights. I may even get to work with refugees again, or with stateless people. I’m grateful to the Duke Middle East in Europe program for helping me identify my scholarly passions.”
On how the program will affect her career interests or next steps after graduation...
“This program confirmed my interest in working on the human rights side of migration. Advocating for and finding solutions to protect economic, social, and cultural rights is what I plan to pursue in my long-term career. Now that I’m more knowledgeable about the actual day-to-day work that goes into running an NGO, I find myself very interested in working at other NGOs in the future.”
On advice she has for other students considering this program...
“Apply if you want to participate in a unique program that provides a diverse array of experiences. You’ll get a classic classroom experience, but in a city with a rich history and a mix of cultures. You’ll love exploring. In addition, you’ll participate in an internship at an international organization with enthusiastic employees who will be happy to collaborate with you. Regardless of your major, this program will provide an enriching and fulfilling experience.”
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