Monica, Associate Programme Officer at UNODC

My tasks range from assisting with project management tasks such as activity tracking, planning, drafting project proposals, updating work plans, writing reports, conducting evaluations of project activities and assisting in the drafting of guidelines. I have also supported the organisation and delivery of training and investigative case forums on a range of illicit trafficking-related topics for criminal justice officials from Africa, the Caribbean, Europe and Latin America. 

During my second year of my Master’s program at Sciences Po, I had the great opportunity to apply for an internship—a chance made possible through the invaluable support of Sciences Po and the Erasmus+ scholarship. This internship was a transformative experience, offering me deeper insight into the organization and its impactful work. I also had the privilege of connecting with inspiring individuals who imparted lessons that have proven incredibly valuable in both my professional and personal growth.

In my final semester at Sciences Po, I strategically selected courses that aligned with my career aspirations, focusing on topics such as project management and evaluations, international organizations, illicit trafficking, and human rights. These courses enriched my understanding of the issues central to the work of the United Nations and similar institutions. Additionally, as part of my preparation for the interview, I immersed myself in documents and guidelines relevant to the programme’s field of work, allowing me to familiarize myself with its key areas of focus.

It can be summarized in three key aspects:

Engaging with frontline practitioners - One of the most rewarding aspects is working directly with law enforcement officers and prosecutors tackling transnational organized crime and illicit trafficking across regions and receiving regular updates on the program's impact. This has reinforced the real-world significance of the programme’s work and keeps me very motivated.

The diplomatic dimension - Being based at UNODC headquarters has provided me with unique opportunities to attend conferences and meetings involving Permanent Missions and representatives from international organizations and experts. These gatherings allow me to immerse myself in discussions on topics that align closely with my personal and professional interests.

International missions and cultural exchange - This role has provided me with invaluable experience through missions to implement activities, deliver presentations and participate in workshops in different locations; I have recently had the opportunity to travel to Abuja and Lagos (Nigeria), Cotonou (Benin) and Istanbul (Türkiye). This is a fascinating part of my job, as the missions have not only enriched my cultural understanding but have also allowed me to practise and refine language skills.

Through my time at PSIA, I developed three key skills that have proved invaluable in my professional career: drafting effective logical frameworks, managing my time efficiently to meet tight deadlines, and structuring my ideas in a clear and concise manner in multiple languages. These skills have greatly enhanced my ability to produce effective and well-structured documents that resonate with donors, beneficiaries and colleagues alike. 

This advice was given to me by a senior colleague, but I'd like to share it with you (even though it may be unusual advice, and even if I'm still trying to put it into practice myself): 

It's important to dream big, set ambitious goals and work hard to achieve them, but never lose sight of what's important in life. Success doesn't always come from reaching the highest positions. Sometimes the greatest fulfillment lies in balancing career aspirations with personal well-being (and this may be easier to achieve in a mid-level position, where you still have the freedom to enjoy life's simple pleasures - spending time with loved ones, being in nature, growing spiritually, reading and/or simply getting a good night's sleep). Life is not just about work; it's about creating a life that you can look back on in your old age and know that you tried to become the best version of yourself, you improved the lives of people around you and found balance in your pursuits.