“It was a hands-on experience that gave me a deeper appreciation for the planning, coordination, and care that goes into running meaningful therapeutic programs."
What drew you to intern at The Red Pencil (Singapore), and what was your role during your internship?
The Red Pencil (Singapore) stood out to me for its meaningful use of art therapy to support individuals across different age groups and life circumstances. I was especially interested in the way the Programs Department plays a key role in shaping and delivering these impactful initiatives. It was a great opportunity to learn more about how a non-profit operates behind the scenes, especially in the context of therapeutic work.
During my internship, I was involved in several areas of program support. I conducted in-depth research and literature reviews to strengthen the program’s content. I also prepared art materials for therapy sessions, supported logistics for ongoing programs, and assisted with tracking and managing program funds. It was a hands-on experience that gave me a deeper appreciation for the planning, coordination, and care that goes into running meaningful therapeutic programs.
How did your experience as a Programmes intern influence your personal or professional development?
As a social sciences student planning to major in sociology, this internship gave me meaningful exposure to the social service sector in Singapore. I gained a better understanding of how creative interventions like art therapy can be integrated into community support work.
What stood out to me was how The Red Pencil collaborates with a wide range of partners, from social service agencies to hospitals in order to support diverse groups. This exposure deepened my interest in how different systems come together to serve those in need and sparked a desire to explore how I can contribute meaningfully in future roles, whether through research, program design, or advocacy.
Can you share a memorable project or task you worked on during your time at The Red Pencil (Singapore)?
One memorable project I worked on was preparing for The Red Pencil’s 14th anniversary celebration. I was involved in various aspects of the event, including logistics preparation, contributing to program and station planning, and coordinating volunteer support. I also guided volunteers in prepping art materials and setting up decorations.
This experience taught me how to manage multiple tasks, stay organized under pressure, and collaborate effectively with the team. I picked up valuable insights just by working alongside others and observing how the different pieces came together.
Seeing participants engage meaningfully with the art activities at each station was incredibly fulfilling. It felt like all the hard work paid off and reminded me of the impact that thoughtful planning can have.
What skills or knowledge did you gain or improve upon during your internship, and how did you see them benefiting your future career?
During my internship, I developed several key skills that I know will benefit me in the long run. One of the most valuable was learning how to streamline the research process, being more focused and intentional when gathering information, which helped me work more efficiently and effectively. I also honed my administrative skills through tasks like preparing materials, tracking program-related funds, and supporting event logistics.
Balancing multiple tasks taught me how to better organize and prioritize my responsibilities, which helped me stay on top of deadlines and manage time more effectively.
These skills, particularly in research, coordination, and communication are highly transferable, and I see them as a strong foundation for any future role I take on, especially in the social sector or any work involving people and community-based initiatives.
What did you learn about art therapy and its impact on people in need?
I learned that art therapy can be a powerful form of support, especially for individuals who may struggle to express their emotions verbally. Through creative expression, clients are not restricted by language or the need to articulate their feelings precisely. Instead, they are given the freedom to communicate in ways that feel natural and safe to them. Whether it’s through drawing, painting, or other mediums, this process allows emotions and thoughts to surface in a non-threatening and meaningful way.
I also came to understand how art therapists use these creative expressions to gain deeper insight into what a person may be going through. Art becomes a bridge to understanding, helping individuals process their emotions, reflect on their experiences, and begin healing. Seeing how art therapy can support emotional recovery and personal growth gave me a deep appreciation for its role in improving the lives of people in need.
How has your experience as an intern shaped your future career goals or aspirations?
My internship at The Red Pencil (Singapore) gave me a clearer sense of the kind of impact I want to make through my future career. I’ve always been interested in understanding how systems support different communities and this experience allowed me to see that work in action. It deepened my appreciation for the social service sector and how creative interventions like art therapy can meet emotional needs in ways that traditional approaches may not.
Being involved in program planning, research, and event coordination helped me develop practical skills while also strengthening my interest in community-based work. It showed me the importance of empathy, collaboration, and thoughtful communication, qualities I hope to carry into future roles. Whether I pursue a path in program development, research, or policy, I know I want to work in a space that uplifts others and contributes meaningfully to their well-being.
