From Classrooms to Community: Experiencing IIE NextGen Internship with SOS Chiang Mai

IIE NextGen interns with SOS Chiang Mai team and community member pose joyfully beside an elephant, showcasing their collaboration and conservation efforts.

In early 2025, three of us—myself, Christopher Mitchell, along with Annie Joost and Kennedy Gourdine—applied for IIE NextGen Internship at SOS Chiang Mai. As current or recently graduated university students from the United States, we were excited but unsure of what awaited us in Chiang Mai. From the moment we arrived, the SOS Thailand team welcomed us warmly, instantly making us feel like part of the family. What followed was an internship full of learning, hands-on experiences, and unforgettable memories.

Diving Into the Work

Annie Joost – Global Policy Masters Student, University of Texas-Austin “My time at SOS has been amazing,” Annie says. She quickly immersed herself in understanding the food waste capture process and the distribution of surplus food to local communities. Beyond fieldwork, she contributed to administrative projects: organizing the volunteer process, writing and editing website content, and creating a FAQ page.

With her focus on international food policy and city development, the internship allowed Annie to apply her studies in a real-world setting.

Annie Joost and Kennedy Gourdine assist with fruit harvesting at a SOS partner farm.

Christopher Mitchell with fruit harvesting at a SOS partner farm.

Christopher Mitchell – International Studies Student, University of Wisconsin-Madison During our first week, SOS leadership guided us in identifying how we could best contribute. I focused on improving internal communication and developing strategies to raise public awareness. My work balanced office tasks, such as translating materials and brainstorming outreach campaigns, with field experiences.

From participating in the Food Rescue Program to working with the Rescue Farm, Rescue Kitchen, and Healthy School Meal programs, I got to see the full scope of SOS’s operations in Chiang Mai.

The Heart of the Team

IIE NextGen interns join the SOS Chiang Mai team for a vibrant day at the Rescue Farm Program

Kennedy – Recently Graduated Sustainability Student, Arizona State University

“I love the SOS Chiang Mai team. Everyone is hardworking, not only keeping current operations running smoothly but also looking ahead to expand the organization’s reach. Each team member is personable and knowledgeable, always ready to help interns when needed. It truly feels like a family here.”

Annie “The team at SOS Chiang Mai has been incredible. Everyone is welcoming and kind. Even though my time with them has been short, I feel I’ve built lasting professional and personal connections. It’s clear that everyone is deeply committed to SOS’s mission, treating the work as more than just a job. They fully invest their time and energy into making a difference.”

Lessons and Takeaways

Each of us came away with unique skills and perspectives:

• Kennedy: Gained expertise in cross-cultural communication, app development, and non-profit logistics, along with a deeper understanding of Thai culture.

  

  IIE NextGen interns receives a warm welcome from a friendly Thai elephant.

• Annie: Learned about global food policy issues and developed a stronger understanding of food waste and allocation.

  

  IIE NextGen interns and community members engage in a Food Rescue Program.

• Christopher: Experienced firsthand the impact of food rescue and international NGO work while building friendships and contributing to the community.

  

  IIE NextGen interns and community members engage in a Food Rescue Program.

  
  

This internship was more than just work

it was an opportunity to grow, contribute, and become part of a vibrant, mission-driven team. Every day brought new challenges, learning moments, and memories that will stay with us long after we leave Thailand.

Christopher Mitchell, along with Annie Joost and Kennedy Gourdine caring for Thai elephants engage closely.

Written by Christopher Mitchell

Produced by SOS Thailand