How to Answer: Although we don't offer many volunteer opportunities with Human Rights Watch, we do have a robust internship program and want to work with individuals who value volunteerism. Walk me through your volunteer experience.
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Human Rights Watch job interview.
14. Although we don't offer many volunteer opportunities with Human Rights Watch, we do have a robust internship program and want to work with individuals who value volunteerism. Walk me through your volunteer experience.
How to Answer
When applying for a nonprofit position, you should be prepared to talk about how you give back to others, how you contribute to your community, and why you believe it is important to do so. Talk about a volunteer experience that is directly related to advocacy, human rights, interviewing stakeholders, and policy research.
Written by Isaiah Swanson on January 7th, 2022
Avoid This
Don't simply list all of the volunteer experiences you have ever had. Pick the ones you can talk about in detail; even better, choose an experience that highlights your connection to the mission of Human Rights Watch. If you do not have any volunteer experiences to share, don't focus on that. Instead, focus on the ways your background and interests demonstrate a passion for human rights.
Written by Isaiah Swanson on January 7th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Ever since I was a child, I have been involved in a variety of volunteer activities because my parents stressed the importance of offering one's services to help the community. In high school, I taught reading skills at the local refugee empowerment center, and during my graduate studies, I offered pro-bono legal advice to individuals trying to become permanent US citizens. I believe volunteerism is an essential part of the human experience so that we maintain our connection to others and learn from them how to best help."
Written by Isaiah Swanson on January 7th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I strongly believe that a regular volunteer commitment can have mutual benefits for the organization and the volunteer. Although I have not volunteered with a large number of organizations, for the last five years I have donated my services weekly to a group that advocates for community oversight of law enforcement. I meet with representative members and advise them on best practices for presenting requests to city and county councils. This has boosted the organization's public profile and led to stronger oversight of community policing."
Written by Isaiah Swanson on January 7th, 2022