Application Guide

How to Apply for Project Management Intern

at DESA - UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs

🏢 About DESA - UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs

DESA is a unique department within the UN that focuses on economic and social development, offering a chance to contribute to global policy and sustainable development goals. Working here means engaging with international stakeholders and driving impactful change from a remote setting.

About This Role

As a Project Management Intern, you will support the coordination of projects that advance the UN's development agenda. This role offers hands-on experience in project planning, monitoring, and stakeholder communication, directly contributing to global initiatives.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with checking emails and updating project trackers, followed by a virtual team meeting to align on milestones. You could spend time drafting progress reports, coordinating with stakeholders via email, or researching best practices for an ongoing initiative.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who DESA - UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs Is Looking For

  • Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a degree in project management, international relations, or a related field with a focus on development.
  • Strong organizational and analytical skills, with experience in project coordination or volunteer work in the development sector.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; knowledge of additional UN languages (French, Spanish) is a plus.
  • Familiarity with the UN system, sustainable development goals, and remote collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams or Trello.

📝 Tips for Applying to DESA - UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs

1

Tailor your resume to highlight project management coursework, internships, or volunteer projects, using specific metrics (e.g., coordinated 5 events with 100+ participants).

2

In your cover letter, explicitly mention your understanding of DESA's work, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and recent reports.

3

Demonstrate remote work readiness: mention experience with virtual teams, time zone management, and tools like Slack or Asana.

4

Research DESA's current projects (e.g., the UN Forum on Sustainable Development) and reference them in your application to show genuine interest.

5

Submit your application early as internships at UN departments are highly competitive; follow the exact submission instructions on the portal.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Express alignment with the UN's mission and DESA's role in promoting inclusive economic and social progress.", 'Highlight specific skills: project planning, data analysis, and cross-cultural communication.', 'Describe a past project or academic work that involved coordinating tasks, managing timelines, or collaborating with diverse stakeholders.', 'Mention your ability to work independently in a remote setting and your proactive approach to learning.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review DESA's website, especially the 'About Us' section and recent publications or press releases.
  • → Understand the structure of the UN Secretariat and where DESA fits in.
  • → Familiarize yourself with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and DESA's role in monitoring progress.
  • → Look up the current projects or initiatives led by the Project Management team you'd be joining.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you prioritize tasks when supporting multiple projects with tight deadlines?
2 Can you describe a time you managed a project or event and overcame a challenge?
3 What do you know about the Sustainable Development Goals and how DESA contributes to them?
4 How do you ensure effective communication in a remote team?
5 Why are you interested in this specific internship at DESA rather than other UN agencies?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic application; avoid phrases like 'I love the UN' without specific references to DESA's work.
  • Don't overlook the remote nature: failing to mention how you'll stay productive and communicate effectively could hurt your chances.
  • Avoid exaggerating experience; instead, be honest and focus on transferable skills from academic projects or volunteer work.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to DESA - UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs!

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