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Lucile Escoffier is currently studying a BSc in Politics and International Relations at UCL and completed an internship with the Social Data Institute at Save the Children in summer 2024.
Can you tell us a bit about your day to day responsiblities during your internship as part of the UCL Social Data Institute internship scheme?
During my internship at Save the Children UK, I was involved in a variety of tasks, including data analysis, project coordination, and attending meetings. Initially, I focused on engaging with stakeholders to understand their needs and familiarising myself with the data and software tools, particularly Power BI. My responsibilities then evolved to include gathering requirements, drafting reports, and preparing visual presentations. As the internship progressed, I concentrated on developing and refining the dashboard, addressing any changes in core data, and ensuring the project met user needs. I regularly consulted with my managers, Tai-Ying Lee and Oliver Fiala, to discuss project milestones and receive feedback.
What project(s) were you involved in and what deliverables were generated (e.g. reports, articles, insight generated) for the rest of the organisation etc.?
The primary project I worked on was the development of a centralised data platform using Power BI, aimed at streamlining the analysis of OECD and IATI data related to international aid. The main deliverable was an interactive dashboard designed to make data more accessible for the Campaign, Advocacy, and Campaign Branch at Save the Children. Additional deliverables included comprehensive user guides and technical documentation to ensure the platform's sustainability and evolution. These tools were intended to enhance the organization's advocacy and evidence efforts by providing easy access to up-to-date data on overseas development assistance (ODA) distribution.
What was your favourite task during your internship and which piece of work are you most proud of?
My favourite task during the internship was developing the Power BI dashboard. Although the project was demanding, I enjoyed transforming complex data sets into clear, interactive visualisations that could directly impact the organisation's advocacy efforts. I am particularly proud of the final version of the dashboard, which was well-received by both data analysts and finance advisers.
What did you find challenging during your internship?
I encountered several challenges during my internship. One major challenge was managing the project's wide-reaching impact, which required extensive validation processes and frequent meetings to ensure alignment with various stakeholders, often resulting in tasks taking longer than anticipated. Time management was also difficult, especially since Save the Children UK had not recently hosted interns, leading to some initial misunderstandings about the project timeline. Additionally, working remotely and coordinating with colleagues across different locations added complexity to collaboration and communication efforts. In order to overcome these challenges, I developed a clear communication strategy and was proactive in providing regular project updates.
What software and data analysis techniques did you have the opportunity to use?
During my internship, I used Power BI for data visualisation and dashboard development. I also used Excel to manage and preprocess large data sets. These tools, which I learned thoroughly through LinkedIn Learning, significantly enhanced my technical and analytical skills.
What was it like working for your provider?
Working for Save the Children UK was a rewarding experience. The organisation’s mission and dedication to improving children’s lives resonated deeply with my personal values and career aspirations. I appreciated the opportunity to work with professionals across different departments, from data analysts to finance advisers, and to contribute to meaningful projects. The supportive environment, along with the chance to engage with various teams, provided valuable insights into the operations of a large humanitarian organisation.