Samaritan's Purse

Social Media Intern

May - August 2021 • Boone, NC

What I liked

What I wish was different

Advice

Get lunch with people in other departments! Take initiative to get to know those in the workplace. You can scroll through a company's website all day long, but you'll truly learn about the culture when you learn about the values of the individuals who are there.

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Product Developer Intern

June - August 2021 • Boone, NC

What I liked

My team was incredible and offered useful mentorship opportunities. I was assigned legitimate tasks I was personally interested in and grew a lot in my skills in just four months. The internship program as a whole was also so much fun. There were about forty other interns on site and we'd often have plans each day after work and over the weekends.

What I wish was different

I wish I was placed in a house closer to the site. But housing was paid for so there is little to complain about.

Advice

Come in knowing what you want to grow in. The team will give you tasks based on what you're passionate about and you should take advantage of this!

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Communications Intern

August - December 2019 • Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

What I liked

The internship offered a great opportunity to be thrust into unfamiliar places, but with the support of an incredibly professional organization utterly devoted to serving others with the love of Jesus. It was a distinct opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and have a go at tasks I'd never tried, engage with a whole new culture - whether through food, sport or photography - and enjoy being part of a team who were so friendly and supportive! The increasing independence and responsibility was something I was very grateful for, and left me ready for a greater challenge at the end of the internship.

What I wish was different

Living for four months in a whole new place meant I felt most settled when I was just about to finish! So staying longer may have been an improvement, but I was very grateful for the opportunity to find community within that time.

Advice

Get stuck in! It quickly becomes apparent that such an internship is a very unique time/place to be in, so whilst knowing when to rest/say no is important, I think it's all the more important to throw yourself into the new opportunities that abound, not only does it lean you into greater dependence on God, but through it I ended up staying 'out in the field' for a couple of weeks, running a 10K and visiting an amazing jazz bar!

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Global Communications Intern

May - August 2015 • Bunia, Ituri

What I liked

As an intern in the Congo field office, I lived in a house with several other Samaritan's Purse employees and a fellow intern. I believe this is different from most other international locations but it was a great fit for me and created a family-like atmosphere. My internship supervisor actually lived in the same house as me, but I think she did a great job of being professional at work and being a friend to me at our house. We had a great working relationship and I still keep in touch with her. The people that lived in the house with me and worked at our office were all extremely intelligent and passionate about their work. My coworkers at the office were a combination of local Congolese staff as well as American and Canadian staff. I loved my coworkers and they felt like family. As most SP field offices don't have full-time communications managers, I was supervised by the program development officer who wrote grant proposals and oversaw monitoring and evaluation of our programs. Some of my tasks included helping her with grant proposal research, writing blog posts, creating Twitter posts, and going through impact stories of our programs written in French by our staff working in the field and working with other staff members to translate them into English. One of the ways we used these stories was in our grant proposals to talk about past program success. I also helped with various data entry and organization tasks. I learned so much in this internship about the way international relief organizations work (including the types of roles available in this setting), about Congolese culture and history, and about stepping into new cultures with humility. While I was there, my supervisor was in the process of starting up a new program and a staff member from SP’s Canadian office came to help with that. It was an amazing experience to join them in brainstorming sessions about how to best meet the needs of the people we were seeking to serve through those programs. The Congo is primarily French-speaking (however there are many more languages and dialects specific to different regions) and I had taken some French in high school but was very rusty. Thankfully, my fellow intern and I were able to take French lessons (I believe once or twice a week) at the office with a local Congolese man who was the best teacher! I was a little nervous going into this internship, but I felt SP took really good care of us and made me feel safe. As an international intern, it was nice to take part in an on-campus orientation in Boone and get to meet the other interns before going all over the world!

What I wish was different

It would have made my life easier if I was better at French because not all of my co-workers spoke English, but that was on me. The office I was in was very isolated compared to most other SP field offices, so it would have been nice to have more things to be able to do and see. However, I did actually make it to visit three different SP sites in the Congo and see a hospital run by doctors from SP's World Medical Mission which was awesome. So I'd say the Congo office has less "fun" things and can be isolating in some ways, but you do get to know your coworkers better and we'd do things like go play frisbee at the UN compound. There were two places you could go out to eat at too. Having another intern definitely helped since the full-time staff were more settled there and we could relate to each other in the "newness" of things. I think it would have been hard to be the only intern at this particular office.

Advice

When I applied for this internship, I filled out a general application (not sure if it's still like this) where you check off basically what internships you'd be open to. So I checked both international and domestic. I totally thought I'd end up in Boone at the headquarters (which I'm sure would also be great) but was very surprised when I was offered an interview with the Congo field office. It ended up being a great surprise. I also interviewed for another position with BGEA. They really seem to take your application and find a place where you fit best (if they want to move forward with you as a candidate). So I would say go along for the journey! You may be surprised by the internship you end up being placed in, but it will be such a growing experience no matter where you are placed. There may be a while where you hear nothing after a phone interview - but sometimes that means they're still trying to find a place for you. There is usually going to be something (even if it's small) you don't like about a particular office or experience, but focus on the good things because there is so much to learn. As an intern there is also so much less pressure than as a full-time employee so just learn all you can and be helpful!

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International Apprentice

July 2020 • Boone, NC

What I liked

I love this job opportunity because it provides young professionals who have raw skills that need refining with real work experience to accomplish that. It is a very professional work environment that encourages a healthy balance of excellence and failure. Failure is not frowned upon as long as there is an effort made towards progress and that a lesson is learned. This leads to growth for individuals and boost the atmosphere of trust and excellence. I love that the goal of this program is to develop highly qualified SP employees that will excel in numerous different roles and environments. Finally, I appreciate and respect that the gospel is the driving factor behind everything that we learn and do and that that is made clear through everything that SP accomplishes.

What I wish was different

Something that I wish was different is that as apprentices, we would have more time at headquarters in Boone to make connections. The program does a great job training apprentices by including many presentations given by SP employees but there is not enough time to follow up with a lot of them. I felt that though our cohort got close through the isolation, there were many missed opportunities with many SP employees due to our off sight training.

Advice

Come prepared to learn. This apprentice program is a great experience and it would be a shame if someone came in proud and with a closed mindset. Not many organizations provide such a unique and beneficial job opportunity so by coming in with a open mind to learning you will be setting yourself up to become a great employee with solid work experience.

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Medical Operations Intern

May - August 2019 • Boone, NC

What I liked

I deeply appreciated SP's commitment to providing both physical and spiritual healing to a world in need. In addition, I was continuously encouraged by the organization's emphasis on never comprising the Gospel, while always providing excellent work. Working on the International Health Unit allowed me to gain a deep appreciation for all that goes into medical programming and operations in field offices, as well as disaster response. I felt encouraged by the projects I was given and the trust that my supervisor and colleagues had in me. The work I was able to be apart of held lasting impact and I feel thankful for all the knowledge and skills I acquired during this experience.

What I wish was different

I would have loved to have the opportunity to make a field visit and see the medical programming and operations first hand. I appreciated being apart of the decisions and planning that occurs at Headquarters, but it would have been great to see the implementation on the field as well.

Advice

Be flexible! Through my time at Samaritan's Purse, I have realized how much the context we are working in changes so quickly. With this being said, it is important to remain in a posture of openness and flexibility. Often times, although it might feel uncomfortable at first, these new opportunities allow for immense growth and development, which is so incredibly valuable.

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HR and Adminstrative Intern

January - May 2019 • Makati, Philippines

What I liked

I absolutely loved the international internship that I had with Samaritan's Purse in their Philippines field offices. I loved getting to work alongside hardworking and like-minded believers who serve so well in Jesus' name. I enjoyed living in a new country, embracing a new culture, and making new friends during my time there.

What I wish was different

I wish the international internship was longer!

Advice

Be willing to go out of your comfort zone and try to give your 100% to adapt to a new country because then only would you be able to get the full exciting experience. And always trust the Lord in the process!

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Finance Intern

January - May 2019 • Kampala, Uganda

What I liked

I enjoyed working with people that were both passionate about their faith and humanitarian work. The internship provides a real opportunity to fulfill a role within a country office and learn how Samaritans Purse runs on the ground level. I had opportunities to work within each role of the finance team and interact with most departments on a weekly basis. One of my favorite parts of working in Kampala was interacting and working with the national staff and learning more about Ugandan culture.

What I wish was different

I really enjoyed my internship. By the end, I had a good community of friends both in and outside the office. It would've been nice to stay even longer but I think the Apprentice program does a good job of fulfilling that role to continue with SP.

Advice

I think being flexible, having humility, and just coming ready to learn will really help your experience. If you have free time, get to know national staff or ask your supervisor how else you can help out!

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General Intern

August - December 2019 • Monrovia, Montserrado

What I liked

I enjoyed the fact that I was able to see my work in the Protection Sector, Health Sector, school, and communications holistically reach the most marginalised with the Gospel. Spiritual and physical needs being met through collaboration of others is a great example of the Body of Christ on the move. I’d also never worked in a top-down NGO before or one where I didn’t know the donors personally, so the professional experience grew me a lot and gave me an appreciation for the care SP has for its staff.

What I wish was different

I wish I had been more intentional in deeper relationship development with colleagues and other ex-pats on my compound. I also wish I had been able to stay on staff longer.

Advice

Flexibility is a must when working in any disaster relief/development setting. I’d also encourage differentiation between expectations and goals before going on the field (if applicable) to foster a greater tenacity for field challenges.

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Biomedical Engineering Intern

May 2019 - August 2020 • North Wilkesboro, NC

What I liked

My internship with Samaritan's Purse was not only an internship where I grew in my technical skill, but I grew spiritually. Throughout my time on both the Boon and North Wilkesboro campuses I met so many amazing people and grew to love this amazing community that would do anything to provide love to those around the world. This company is truly something special. The focus on the outside world rather than on their own company needs is something very seldom seen in a company this large.

What I wish was different

I wish I would've had more time to experience the depth if the community at Samaritan's Purse.

Advice

Be Flexible!! Samaritan's Purse will use you where you are needed the most. Even if it is not necessarily your forte. For example during my time at SP I saw people from donor ministries working alongside the projects department to help set up tents. The donor ministries department was having a slow day, and the projects department could use some extra help. This is a common occurrence around Samaritan's Purse and fits in well with what they do around the world. If they see need they help.

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International Apprentice

July 2020 • Boone, NC

What I liked

I love the way that so much in the Apprentice Program is done with excellence and for the glory of God. It is such a unique opportunity to network with future colleagues and senior management within the organization, learn about the traits that will make you more successful and more like Christ at Samaritan's Purse and in life, and take those lessons beyond the classroom to high pressure simulated experiences where your ability to demonstrated fruits of the spirit no matter the circumstances will be tested. I love the high rigor and excitement of the Apprentice Program, and am so thankful for the way Samaritan's Purse is investing in young professionals like me to ultimately go serve on the field long-term.

What I wish was different

I wish that I had more control over my international placement! Being a part of the apprentice program, however, means being willing to sacrifice your personal desires and ambitions for the needs of the field and the organization as whole. It involves putting the needs of others higher than your individual preferences. While I crave control in my life, and while the staff do their best to hear and take into account your desires, the decision is not up to you at the end of the day and so you have to practice trusting the Lord and his plans for your placement and your life.

Advice

Learn from the people around you! The apprentice program is filled with high caliber people, including both the apprentices and the staff. It could be so easy to try to compete with others, or compare your weaknesses to their strengths. I highly encourage you, however, to delight in the successes, talents and unique perspectives that others bring from the table, and to apply those to your life to become a better version of yourself and a better imitator of Jesus.

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International Apprentice

July 2020 • Boone, NC

What I liked

Being part of the Apprentice program has been such a life-changing season of growth and learning in my career as an employee of Samaritan's Purse. My favorite part of the Apprentice program, and the ministry as a whole, is their priority of sharing the Gospel. The Apprentice program is an amazing opportunity to grow deeper in understanding of all areas of ministry within Samaritan's Purse, and grow in your calling for international work. I love the opportunities to connect with leaders in the organization, and hear from their wisdom and experience. Another one of my favorite parts of the Apprentice program has been the other Apprentices I've gotten to work and grow with throughout the program.

What I wish was different

I can't say that there is anything I wish had been different. The program is extremely well organized and offers amazing opportunities for growth, learning, and future employment opportunities.

Advice

One piece of advice I would share about my experience is making sure to build intentional connections with Samaritan's Purse staff around you. If you're looking to apply to a job, internship, or the Apprentice program, I would make a great effort to connect with Samaritan's Purse recruiters when they are visiting on your college campus. Making face-to-face connections, and intentional contact with Samaritan's Purse recruiters will help them understand and know you better and how you can fit well within the ministry.

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Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Internship

August - December 2016 • Tacloban, Tacloban

What I liked

I loved my time working with Samaritan's Purse in the Philippines. I loved the fact that over 90% of my coworkers were Filipino nationals and that I lived in the community them. It was a truly integrated experience that provided the right combination of structure and flexibility for an internship.

What I wish was different

You spend about 10 days in Boone, NC before you are sent to your location and I think that was a little long.

Advice

Take advantage of any an all opportunities to be involved in the community you find yourself in.

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Program Management Apprentice

October 2019 • Niamey, Niamey

What I liked

I have cherished being able to work alongside teams of people that love Jesus and are committed to helping people in need around the world. The Apprenticeship program allows you start making a tangible difference in the world while also providing a platform for continued learning and professional development. It is also very fun to travel around the world for your job!

What I wish was different

Samaritan's Purse is a fast-paced, disaster-responding organization. This is incredibly exciting but also means that you have to say goodbye to friends a lot! I wish there weren't so many times where you have to say goodbye, but that is a part of the work that we all sign up for at SP.

Advice

I would say to come into the experience with open hands! There will be things that come up that can distract you from the mission of SP and the reason why you wanted to work as a Christian humanitarian worker. Never lose focus on the mission of bringing physical and spiritual aid to those around the world! Let God surprise you with the doors he opens through this work.

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World Medical Mission Intern

May - August 2019 • Monrovia, Montserrado

What I liked

One of my favorite things about the internship was the community. The community (both in Boone and Liberia) was supportive, encouraging, and so willing to share wisdom. I learned so much from the people I worked with and the patients I served. Being able to see firsthand (and participate in) how Samaritan’s Purse seeks to aid broken people spiritually and physically was a blessing and an honor.

What I wish was different

This will sound like a cop out answer perhaps, but honestly one of the only things I would change was how long I was there— I wish I could’ve stayed longer!

Advice

This won’t be the last time you will here this: flexibility really is a necessity. Being able to adapt to whatever circumstances or requests are thrown at you is vital. Just remember why you are an intern too— it’s not about the growth of your resume but being an instrument in the growth of the Kingdom and glorifying the Lord.

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WASH Intern

September 2019 - May 2020 • Yangon, Yangon

What I liked

From the hiring process to debrief session, HR had been superb with helping me to understand everything and that they are always there to help. The country offices were fantastic hosts, teachers, and friends. I learned more than just being a good intern, but more about how to serve like Jesus. SP works with professionalism, humility, and Christ=centeredness.

What I wish was different

I had to leave the country abruptly because of the pandemic. I wish I could have had more time with the team and community there.

Advice

Get engaged with the community. It's easy to think that 'Work' is the most important part of your internship experience, but I learned that investing in and learning about 'People' is the more important. Learn about their culture, personal stories, testimonies, and etc. It's a good chance to learn about the Real Kingdom of God, not my version of the Kingdom of God.

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OCC International Volunteer Relations Intern

May - August 2018 • Boone, NC

What I liked

Samaritan’s Purse is truly a Christ centered organization. Every day begins with a company wide devotional and prayer time. At the heart of every project is to share the gospel and elevate the name of Christ above everything else. Great leadership and godly leaders who pour into you as a young professional and brother/ sister in Christ. During the internship they invested plenty of time and resources into our professional development, gave us experience working on major projects and presenting them before the Vice President and other departmental leaders. I was given the opportunity to travel abroad for an international conference with Christian leaders from 35 countries. My biggest highlight was working on a project to help get get the gospel to an unreached people group in the 10/40 window. It was a blessing to get solid work experience in my field while also making a real life impact by getting the gospel to some of the least reached places on earth

What I wish was different

I personally would have enjoyed a position in one of the international field offices but Boone is still a great place to spend the summer, especially for outdoor enthusiasts

Advice

I recommend you apply early and respond quickly as they literally get thousands of applicants. If you get selected for the internship, consider it a trial period between you and the organization. If you do well and stand out, they will want to keep you around and may follow up with a job offer. You should network with as many people as you can while you are there, they are amazing people who will readily pour into you with biblical wisdom or career guidance.

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Projects Intern

May - August 2018 • Sydney, New South Wales

What I liked

I loved getting to work with such an incredible organization that is so dedicated to its mission, yet willing to take the time to really invest in interns. I feel blessed to have interned in an office full of people who were willing to teach me, encourage me, and give me tasks and projects to do that really were making a difference. I remember being stunned when some of the people who worked in Projects wanted me to give them a briefing about gender-based violence (which I was researching) before they went to an event to represent some of Samaritans Purse's work combatting such violence. It was a privilege to learn and be pushed in such a top-notch environment full of the most dedicated people I've ever known.

What I wish was different

I wish that I had realized how much I could learn, and not felt as if I needed to have a 'cool' task to do or a need to prove myself. Essentially, I wish I had an attitude of humility. Otherwise, I wouldn't change a thing.

Advice

Interning for Samaritan's Purse was one of the best experiences I have ever had! I would recommend it to anyone who wants to get a realistic vision of how their passions can be turned into a real, sustainable effort to help people in Jesus' name.

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Finance Intern

May - August 2015 • Kampala, Uganda

What I liked

I loved learning about Finance overseas, visiting different offices across the country, and seeing the impact the teams in Uganda had on the community. It is awesome to see SP team with other organizations to provide food, clean water, supplies, and encouragement in the name of the Lord. My team in the Kampala office was awesome too!

What I wish was different

I was suppose to be in South Sudan with 1 other intern, but due to the unrest in the country, was moved to working in Uganda. I was okay with change, as I knew the opportunity would still be amazing, however I was sad to not have another intern in Uganda with me. I lived alone in a house for most of the trip and felt lonely at times. However, I think this is rare!

Advice

Be bold in applying for SP and see where God might lead you! My internship at SP taught me so much and the lessons I learned then still shape me many many years later!

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Communications/Grants Intern

May - August 2018 • Erbil, Erbil

What I liked

I came in skeptical I made the right choice interning with Samaritan's Purse, but I left confident that I gained tangible, transferable skills, and an experience that would boost my future job prospects as well as personally impact me. I loved the flexibility of my supervisor, the ability I had to work on many different projects and shape my experience to fit my interests, and the community of the staff in Iraq. I gained a unique cultural experience working in camps in Northern Iraq, and the people I met working at SP have shaped who I am.

What I wish was different

Though I really liked how during the course of the summer I could shift the focus of my internship and the projects I worked on, I wish I had more structure and more work. I felt like I had a higher capacity to work and didn't have the direction to really dig in as much as I would have liked in order to take full advantage of the internship.

Advice

Network before and during the application process. It will make a TON of difference on your application to have a strong understanding of the work and who recruiters are looking for. If you're doing an internship in the Field with SP, I recommend really doing your homework on the industry beforehand so you know how to really dive in. Be direct with your supervisor on what you want to learn and take on more than you think you can handle, that's where you'll really grow.

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