Rishi Raithatha (MA IRIO) did his placement at Centre for European Security Studies (CESS) in Groningen

How did you look for a placement? What was your ‘search method’?

Towards the end of the first semester, I became aware of the Centre for European Security Studies (CESS) by chance, simply by cycling past their office in Groningen (on the way to Albert Heijn). I proceeded to apply for a placement there on the basis that it would allow me to conduct the placement within the one-year allotment for the Masters programme, without having to leave Groningen, where I had since become settled. CESS’s Programme Manager invited me for an interview, and proceeded to offer me a three-month position a few days later. Possibly the luckiest “search method” I’ve ever had to use!

What did you learn from the internship? For what reason do you think students should undertake a placement?

The experience demonstrated my ability to adapt to different demands and environments, and produce quality output even when under pressure. In addition to this, I was able to learn more about the intellectual element of CESS itself – namely SSR (Security Sector Reform). I had no prior knowledge of this, but having attended a workshop and seminar in Zagreb (Croatia) and Tbilisi (Georgia) respectively, I believe I have a better understanding of the importance of SSR to newly emerging, post-conflict and developing countries.

By also being able to visit these countries, I was further inundated with some of the security challenges faced by the surrounding regions and what measures were being taken to alleviate the issues. The placement also allowed me to explore a different strand of an area of familiarity (Burundi), ultimately assisting my thesis-writing process. On a side note, during the placement itself, a letter I submitted to The Economist (on what constituted a “state”, whilst mentioning Burundi) was published on their website and in that week’s print edition.

What did you like best?

Without a doubt, I enjoyed traveling abroad to two different countries and representing CESS at two High-Level events. It gave me an unparalleled insight into the lifestyle of a “high-flyer”, proven by my having to work on the train to Schiphol and even on the aircraft itself! But aside from the trips, I enjoyed working as part of an accepted member of a close-knit group of people. This allowed me to contribute constructively to the teams ideas and objectives.

What would you do differently the next time you would do a placement?

I think I would certainly try to spend more time getting to know my colleagues, though no effort was spared in doing so at CESS. I regularly had coffee and spontaneous conversations with each member of staff, and even managed to organize a luncheon event just to prove to certain suspecting members of staff that Indian food wasn’t just about “spices and chilies”. I would also try to understand the importance of certain tasks, which I may have taken for granted in a couple of cases.

What would you advise other students for their placements?

I would advise exercising flexibility, a willingness to learn and a “can do” and proactive attitude. I would also advise that students on a placement ensure that they have enough work to do, which can sometimes involve asking round for work to be done. I would advise that one should keep an open mind when working in such organisations and be willing to contribute, but also more so to learn from the experience of others. Placements can prove to be a lot of fun and I would certainly suggest making friends with members staff – as I did. It really helps!