Name of Student : Moroj Al Jasem

My experience at Oxfam to say the least was enlightening. The words philanthropy and humanitarianism were given a new meaning. I was open to a completely new world; a world of aiding. Interning at an organization that was built on the sole purpose of giving back and helping those in need, gave me a new perspective on the art of giving. The employees were experts in their field and were passionate and driven to come into work each day and make a difference. From the first day, I sat with employees from different departments and they all gave me an introduction on their jobs and tasks in the organization. Each day I sat with around 5 or 6 people individually to learn about their positions. After that I was given small tasks to complete and the tasks included updating reports, handing summaries about multiple crisis’s in Africa then they gave me much more important tasks such as running background checks on two companies in the Gulf before accepting their donation; since Oxfam will not accept any donations if it did not meet the organization’s ethical guidelines.

There was also a day where I was made to work at the Oxfam store located in Oxford and they sold Fair-trade, vintage and second-hand items then all the proceeds from the purchases would then be taken and put into projects that need the most funding which shows how far the organization goes with charity. They scheduled another trip as well to Biscter Village where the Oxfam warehouse is located; they stored supplies from plumbing to generators to tents for the aid of countries in need of urgent support, of course we got a tour of the warehouse with detailed description about the items, what they’re used for, how much it costs and he even told us how they deliver those supplies as well.

All in all it was a positive experience to be able to see first hand how a charitable organization works and how complex it is when it comes to accepting donations. I highly respect everyone that goes to work everyday to make a difference in the lives to people they do not know. The whole experience of living alone abroad, walking to work, making new friends and understanding their culture was an enjoyable and memorable ride worth taking.