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As a Brazilian studying International Development, Economics, and Hispanic Studies, I cultivated a passion for the intricacies of international relations. My areas of interest include diplomacy, cultural exchange, and economic policy. This background led me to pursue an internship at the Portuguese Consulate in Montreal this summer, where I aimed to gain practical experience in diplomatic service and enhance my understanding of consular operations.

I was particularly drawn to this internship because of my aspiration to break into the field of diplomacy. My learning objectives were to develop a comprehensive understanding of visa processes, improve my skills in report writing, and learn how to effectively manage public communications for a diplomatic mission.

The Consulate General of Portugal in Montreal serves as a crucial link between Portugal and Canada, providing a range of consular services to Portuguese nationals and promoting Portuguese culture within the local community. The consulate鈥檚 mission is to protect the interests of Portuguese citizens abroad, facilitate travel and immigration processes, and enhance cultural and economic ties between the two countries. It offers services such as issuing passports and visas, registering births and marriages, and providing assistance in emergencies. Additionally, the consulate organizes cultural events and initiatives aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Portuguese heritage and traditions.

In the beginning, I felt insecure about my French, especially when speaking to people requesting visas. However, this internship turned out to be an amazing opportunity to improve my French language skills. As I assisted individuals with visa applications, I became more confident in my ability to communicate effectively in French, which has been invaluable for my personal and professional growth. Additionally, speaking Portuguese daily in a professional setting was an incredible opportunity to refine my language skills and connect more deeply with my cultural heritage.

My responsibilities included understanding various visa types and their specific requirements, writing reports on current affairs to keep the consulate informed about local developments, and maintaining regular contact with other consulates to support collaborative diplomatic efforts. Managing the consulate's Facebook page allowed me to engage with the public and promote events such as Portugal Day, an important cultural celebration that I helped organize. One of the highlights of my internship was being part of the team that planned and executed Portugal Day, where I witnessed firsthand the impact of cultural diplomacy in strengthening community bonds. Another highlight was the visit from the Secretary of State for the Portuguese Communities, which provided a unique insight into high-level diplomatic interactions and the importance of maintaining strong connections with the Portuguese diaspora.

Additionally, I had the opportunity to assist in hosting the EU elections at the Consulate. This experience gave me a closer look at the coordination and organization required for international electoral processes, as well as the importance of democratic participation for citizens living abroad.

This internship has been a significant milestone in my academic and professional journey. It provided me with invaluable insights into the practical aspects of diplomacy and reinforced my career aspirations. I learned how to navigate complex visa regulations, effectively communicate in a multilingual environment, and manage public relations for a diplomatic mission. The hands-on experience I gained has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of international development and diplomatic service. I am immensely grateful for the support of the Faculty of Arts Internship Award, and to Dr. Francisco Saraiva, C么nsul General, for mentoring and introducing me to the diplomatic field.