Earlier this year RAI-US launched the Pathways to Careers in Resettlement, Asylum, and Integration Scholarship Opportunity, as a new resource to diversify and enhance the talent pipeline, specifically targeting RAI-US internships. The scholarship’s main objective is to promote career paths in humanitarian work for BIPOC and/or immigrant populations and further our commitment to a diverse and inclusive internship experience. After receiving 35 applications from RAI-US interns, eight interns were selected to receive a $5,000 scholarship. One of those eight was chosen from the IRC in Oakland. Oakland is excited to introduce this year’s scholarship recipient: Gianna D’Arrigo!
Personal Bio: Gianna D'Arrigo, an anti-trafficking intern for the IRC in Oakland, is a rising senior political science student at Saint Mary's College of California. She is passionate about international human rights and plans to attend graduate school abroad to study international affairs and peacekeeping. She is committed to working in refugee assistance throughout her career. In her free time, she enjoys cooking new recipes and singing whenever she gets the chance.
Internship Experience: “Interning with the International Rescue Committee was a dream come true! I was fortunate to work directly with clients to assist in their resettlement and provide support for survivors of trafficking. It was the most rewarding work I have ever done. What I loved most about the Anti-Trafficking Oakland office was that everyone came to work with the motivation to make a positive difference because they wholeheartedly believe in the mission of the IRC.”
Scholarship Award: “I am extremely grateful to the IRC for granting me this scholarship. I plan to use this award to pursue my graduate education, so that I may continue to study international affairs and work to make a difference in global human rights.”