Monash University student Rhea Gotsis has begun a research internship with Federal Member for Calwell Maria Vamvakinou MP that will look at ways in which the Greek Financial Crisis has impacted on Australia, and ways in which Australia can assist the European nation.
Ms Vamvakinou says political internships are important for students to gain knowledge of Australia’s political system whilst experiencing first-hand the workings of an electorate office, and the parliamentary duties of a Federal Member.
Above: Rhea Gotsis with Maria Vamvakinou MP.
“Internships are a great way for university students to thoroughly investigate an area of interest,” says Ms Vamvakinou. For the next three months, Ms Gotsis - who is in her third year at Monash University studying a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in International Relations / Studies – will research her chosen topic with Ms Vamvakinou’s guidance and present a final paper.
“Working with Ms Vamvakinou has been an advantage as it has allowed me to pursue an angle not yet focused on, and that is Australia’s ability to assist Greece in this time of crisis,” Ms Gotsis said. “With guidance from Maria’s office, I will be able to narrow down the primary pillars of Australian foreign policy, and seek the ways in which these may be supported if Australia attempts to assist Greece politically, economically or culturally.”
Apart from having one on one time with Ms Vamvakinou, Ms Gotsis says she is fortunate this internship has allowed her to make critical contacts such as European Union members; political leaders; and representatives of the Greek community in Australia.
“To have such a large range of sources providing me with extensive diversity on the project has given me great motivation to ensure I explore every angle possible and compose a piece surrounding a topic which is yet to receive considerable attention,” the student said.
If you would like to learn more about a political internship, please contact the office on (03) 93675216.
