By Ann Kigondu
While searching for internship opportunities, I came across an internship advertisement from the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC). Like any eager job seeker, I wanted to learn more about the organization before applying.
During my search, I discovered several of the Center’s projects, but the DREAMS project stood out the most. Curious to learn more, I dug deeper—watching YouTube videos and reading about its objectives. What resonated with me most were the engaging video graphics that clearly explained the project’s mission. It was my first real encounter with DREAMS, and the more I learned, the more excited I became about the possibility of contributing to such impactful work.
Beyond DREAMS, I was inspired by APHRC’s broader efforts, particularly in HIV prevention and care, and their commitment to addressing pressing social and health challenges across Africa. The idea of joining an organization making such a tangible difference deeply motivated me, and I knew I had to apply for the internship.
Prior to my internship at APHRC, I had experience in data collection, analysis, and community engagement, as such the APHRC internship was a new challenge that I was eager to face head-on. I expected to learn and actively participate in the conceptualization and implementation of a research project, including data analysis, and dissemination of results to the communities we serve. Ambitious as I was, I quickly realized that my experience was inadequate in some areas, however, my team was very supportive of my professional transformation. Through the project, I have gained invaluable insights and skills that have shaped my professional growth and personal outlook for which I am incredibly grateful. As a young professional, this experience was not without its lessons::
Lesson 1: You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know.
It was humbling to realize that my prior experience in data collection— using Google Forms, basic questionnaires for data collection and Excel for data analysis—would not be enough to navigate APHRC’s work. I started working with larger datasets, advanced software, and intricate methodologies beyond anything I had encountered. Google became my best friend; and my curiosity paid off, as I am now multifaceted and familiar with many aspects of data collection and analysis.
Lesson 2: There’s No Shame in Asking for Help
One of the best parts of my internship was the team I worked with. From the beginning, my supervisor at the Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases (ERID) unit encouraged me to always ask for help whenever I needed it, he did not expect me to know everything, what truly mattered was my willingness to learn. I was never judged for not having an answer; instead, I was guided through challenges, taught how to use new tools, and mentored on best practices.
Lesson 3: Growth Happens Outside Your Comfort Zone
This internship has stretched me far outside of my comfort zone. APHRC has taught me not to shy away from discomfort. Instead, I have learnt to embrace the challenge of learning new things everyday, and gained the confidence to tackle challenges head-on. Because of this, I can truly say that I am better now than before, and, most importantly, I have learnt to be patient with myself during the learning process.
Lesson 4: APHRC Inspires You to Dream Bigger
One thing that stands out about APHRC is how it pushes everyone, interns included, to think beyond the present. It is almost a natural transition for interns to begin thinking about their next steps once they join the Center. Some of my peers plan to pursue master’s degrees or PhDs, while others dive deeper into specialized research areas. At a personal level, I plan on pursuing a Master’s in Global Health to deepen my expertise in designing and implementing studies and to contribute meaningfully to mental health research and the broader health field.
Lesson 5: The value of constructive feedback
It would be remiss of me not to mention how constructive feedback played a huge role in helping me refine my skills. My colleagues offered both honest and supportive guidance which helped me navigate challenges more effectively. By learning to embrace feedback with an open mind, I discovered that growth often comes from confronting weaknesses and turning them into strengths.
As I step into my new role in the research division, I am grateful that APHRC challenged me to grow, transform, and build a solid foundation for success. My time as an intern has equipped me with the tools to pursue personal and professional development with purpose. I have developed a mindset that sees challenges as opportunities and above all been inspired to dream bigger and be better. These lessons will continue to shape how I approach both my career and life. My journey at APHRC has laid the groundwork for continued growth, and I’m excited to carry these lessons with me. My advice to those considering an internship at APHRC is this: come ready to learn, to be challenged, and to grow. You will leave with new skills, a renewed sense of purpose, direction, and the confidence to continue shaping your path.