INTER

VIEW
BEST CANDIDATE -
1 Asked thought-provoking questions
2 Speed didn’t matter i.e. took time to answer in a calm and
gentle manner
3 Smiled often
4 Made eye contact
5 Researched about the company and also the job role

WORK FOR THEM BEFORE WORKING FOR THEM -

1 Don’t tell prominent firms what you can do for them or
have done.
2 Assume you are working for them and start doing
work for that role you’ve applied for.
3 Show that work by sending a cold mail application to
the company with your resume, cover letter and portfolio.
4 Take the example of Avkash Shah, Motion designer,
CRED
COMPANY INFO -

National Geographic Society (NGS):

The National Geographic Society is a non-profit scientific

and educational organization known for its commitment to
exploring, researching, and promoting conservation and
education about the world and its inhabitants.

NGS is renowned for its work in advancing geographic

knowledge, supporting scientific research, promoting
environmental stewardship, and raising awareness about
cultural and natural heritage through its various media
platforms, including the National Geographic magazine,
documentaries, and educational programs.

The Nature Conservancy (TNC):

The Nature Conservancy is also a global non-profit

organization focused on conserving lands and waters to
ensure the sustainability of biodiversity. TNC works with
partners and communities to implement science-based
solutions for environmental challenges.

TNC is involved in various projects related to habitat

protection, restoration, and sustainable resource
management. They often collaborate with governments,
businesses, and local communities to find practical and
lasting solutions to environmental issues.

INTERNSHIP INFO -
The National Geographic Society + The Nature
Conservancy Externship is a collaborative program offered
by two of the world's most renowned environmental
organizations. It's an eight-week virtual learning and
leadership experience designed for young adults between
the ages of 18 and 25 who are passionate about
conservation and exploration.

The program's mission is to equip young people with the

knowledge, tools, and relationships they need to become
changemakers in the field of conservation. Through a
combination of online workshops, networking sessions, and
hands-on projects, participants gain valuable insights into
the different facets of conservation work, from scientific
research and storytelling to community engagement and
policy advocacy.

INTRODUCTION -

Hello, I am Aditya Dhyani, and I am honoured to be here

today as a candidate for the National Geographic Society +
The Nature Conservancy Externship. Currently, I am
serving as a Research Intern at the Indian Institute of
Technology, Indore, working under the guidance of
Professor Gurjit Singh, India's Foreign Ambassador. My
responsibilities involve contributing to various research
papers and crafting impactful OP-EDs, 20+ of which have
been published in prominent Indian newspapers like The
Tribune. I am deeply inspired by the commitment of the
National Geographic Society and The Nature Conservancy
to environmental conservation and education. The
unparalleled opportunities to contribute to meaningful
projects align with my personal passion for sustainable
practices and biodiversity. I am eager to bring my skills and
dedication to an organization that shares my values and
works tirelessly to make a positive impact on the planet. In
my current role, I've been immersed in diverse domains
such as foreign affairs, collaborating closely with Professor
Gurjit Singh. The experience has allowed me to engage in
extensive writing, producing OP-EDs that bridge the gap
between academia and the public. My involvement in
Professor Singh's research papers and upcoming book has
further honed my analytical and research skills. Before IIT
Indore, I served as a Digital Marketing Intern at the Indian
Institute of Digital Education (IIDE). During this time, I
successfully formulated SEO-optimized blogs for 20+
companies through meticulous market research and data
analytics. My leadership skills were put to the test as I
managed a team of seven interns for a social media project,
resulting in the creation of an engaging Instagram reel.
Additionally, my role involved analyzing marketing trends
using Meta Ads Library, providing valuable insights for
campaign optimization. My experiences have equipped me
with a robust skill set, including research and analytical
capabilities, effective communication through writing, and
proficiency in data analytics and SEO optimization. These
skills have proven instrumental in achieving tangible results,
such as a 30%+ increase in search rankings for companies
during my digital marketing tenure. I am particularly drawn
to the work of National Geographic Society and The Nature
Conservancy in the realm of environmental conservation
and education. With my interdisciplinary background, strong
research skills, and a track record of successful projects, I
am confident in my ability to contribute meaningfully to your
organisation. My passion for sustainability, coupled with my
diverse skill set, makes me a desirable candidate for the
Externship. I am excited about the prospect of contributing
to your impactful initiatives and learning from the esteemed
professionals at the National Geographic Society and The
Nature Conservancy.

**14. How would you approach a particular

conservation challenge?**

I would approach a conservation challenge by conducting

thorough research to understand the nuances, collaborating
with experts, and devising a comprehensive strategy.
Leveraging my storytelling skills, I would then communicate
the challenge and proposed solutions to diverse audiences,
fostering awareness and garnering support for sustainable
initiatives.

By combining my diverse skill set, passion for conservation,

and a collaborative mindset, I am confident in my ability to
contribute meaningfully to the National Geographic Society
+ The Nature Conservancy Externship.

**1. What sparked your interest in conservation and

this particular externship program?**
My passion for conservation was ignited during my time as
a Digital Marketing Intern at the Indian Institute of Digital
Education (IIDE). While conducting market research and
utilizing data analytics, I witnessed the profound impact of
sustainable practices on companies' reputations and
success. This experience inspired me to delve deeper into
environmental issues, prompting my interest in contributing
actively to conservation efforts. The National Geographic
Society + The Nature Conservancy Externship aligns
perfectly with my newfound passion, offering a platform
where I can merge my skills with a meaningful cause.

**2. What specific aspects of the program excite you

the most?**

I am particularly enthusiastic about the program's emphasis

on immersive experiences and hands-on projects. The
prospect of working alongside experts from the National
Geographic Society and The Nature Conservancy,
contributing to impactful initiatives, and gaining real-world
exposure to conservation challenges is immensely exciting.
Additionally, the opportunity to collaborate on a global scale
and leverage my skills in a practical setting is something I
find highly motivating.

**6. What skills and knowledge do you bring to the

table that would benefit the program?**
I bring a multifaceted skill set encompassing research, data
analysis, storytelling, and digital marketing. My ability to
generate compelling narratives, coupled with a strong
analytical foundation, positions me to contribute to the
program's goals. Additionally, my experience in managing
collaborative projects and leading a team during the
creation of an engaging Instagram reel demonstrates my
capacity to work effectively in diverse environments.

**7. How do you stay informed about current

environmental issues?**

I stay informed through a combination of academic

literature, reputable news sources, and involvement in
professional networks. Regularly attending conferences,
webinars, and engaging with experts on platforms like
LinkedIn ensures that I am up-to-date with the latest
developments in environmental science and conservation.

**12. Describe a situation where you had to collaborate

with someone from a different background or
perspective.**

Collaborating with Professor Gurjit Singh, an esteemed

foreign ambassador, has exposed me to diverse
perspectives. Our collaboration has been enriching,
allowing me to appreciate the importance of understanding
different viewpoints and leveraging them to create well-
rounded solutions.
**11. How do you communicate complex information to
diverse audiences?**

I simplify complex information through clear and concise

storytelling, utilizing visuals when necessary. This approach
ensures that diverse audiences, regardless of their
background, can comprehend and engage with the
information effectively.

**3. What are your career aspirations in the field of

conservation?**

I aspire to become a leading voice in the realm of

conservation, leveraging my skills in research, data
analysis, and storytelling to drive positive environmental
change. Whether through influential research papers,
compelling narratives, or strategic initiatives, I envision
contributing significantly to global conservation efforts. My
ultimate goal is to bridge the gap between scientific
knowledge and public understanding, fostering a collective
commitment to sustainable practices.

**4. How does this externship align with your long-term

goals?**
This externship aligns seamlessly with my long-term goals
by providing a unique platform to apply and enhance my
skills in a practical conservation setting. The exposure to
real-world challenges, collaboration with experts, and the
opportunity to contribute to impactful projects directly
contribute to my growth as a conservationist and align with
my vision of making a meaningful difference in the field.

**5. Describe your experience with research, data

analysis, or storytelling.**

As a Research Intern at the Indian Institute of Technology,

Indore, I have been actively involved in writing OP-EDs
published in major Indian newspapers and assisting
Professor Gurjit Singh in research papers. This experience
has honed my research and storytelling skills, allowing me
to communicate complex ideas effectively. Moreover, my
role as a Digital Marketing Intern involved extensive data
analysis to formulate SEO-optimized blogs, showcasing my
proficiency in leveraging data for strategic decision-making.

**8. Describe a situation where you had to solve a

problem or overcome a challenge. What was your
approach?**

During my time at IIDE, I identified a significant gap in the

SEO strategy. I initiated a comprehensive analysis,
identified key areas for improvement, and formulated a
data-driven plan. Collaborating with the team, we
implemented changes that resulted in a notable 30%+
increase in search rankings, showcasing my ability to
identify and address challenges proactively.

**9. How would you approach a task you haven't

encountered before?**

I approach unfamiliar tasks by breaking them down into

manageable steps, conducting thorough research, and
seeking guidance from experts. This method allows me to
grasp the intricacies of the task, formulate a strategic
approach, and adapt quickly to new challenges.

**10. How do you work effectively in a team

environment?**

I believe in fostering open communication, recognizing each

team member's strengths, and promoting a collaborative
atmosphere. As a team leader at IIDE, I successfully
managed a project with seven interns, ensuring effective
communication channels and creating a cohesive
environment that facilitated the successful completion of our
collaborative project.
**13. How do you handle disagreements or conflicting
viewpoints?**

I approach disagreements with an open mind, fostering a

constructive dialogue to understand the underlying
concerns. By actively listening and seeking common
ground, I aim to turn conflicts into opportunities for
innovative solutions.