I was one of the first MantaWatch interns together with Ichsan back in 2012. The MantaWatch Internship Program is an event you don’t want to miss, especially if you love diving and conservation! But this internship is not just about mantas. It is also a great opportunity for you to practice your communication skills (both Bahasa and English!).

This very prestigious internship can help open many doors to your future career. Just look at me now! I am now a member of the MantaWatch team, and I work as the Liaison Officer for West Manggarai and Komodo region. My role is to communicate and maintain a good relationship with local stakeholders, including DKP, communities and the dive industry. I consider myself a shy person, so sometimes this can be a challenge, but also a great opportunity to improve my communicating skill to the next level. And of course I get to live in Labuan Bajo, on the edge of Komodo National Park!

This year’s interns will gain so much experience, including greater confidence to communicate and present scientific information (yes, you will HAVE to present to the tourists too!). And of course develop your diving skills. The mentors are really helpful and understanding, and you can always ask them anything.

My advice to this year’s applicants? Just be confident! Trust me, it will take you a long way.

Good luck applicants! I look forward to meeting you in Komodo.

Click here to find out more about the 2014 MantaWatch Internship Program.

Dita meet a manta