What’s in it for me, Jens Kandt, Intern from IIT, Chennai. Volunteer with WISA

Usually, the first day of an internship is a bad day. You don’t know anybody; nobody knows you; you don’t know what to do; you keep wondering whether you are prepared sufficiently; maybe you’re even afraid of not being taken seriously. All this is different at Janaagraha. The first day at Janaagraha was a great day and I got more excited as to what is coming up to me in terms of tasks, knowledge, and challenges. The beauty about volunteering here is that it is nobody but yourself who defines your role, the way you contribute, and bring in your skills. And, indeed, once you show a bit commitment you get quickly involved in larger decisions. For me, personally, it is very important to work independently, to be allowed to think, and to raise questions. Janaagraha responds to all of these needs, and gives room for inquiries, suggestions, or - sometimes - heated debates. This openness is so important for meeting one’s own objectives and this is exactly the openness you, as a volunteer, should also bring along. Once that matches, be prepared for an intensive and self-fulfilling experience with a lot of opportunities to watch, speak, and understand … something that propels you right up to the very last day.