By Mallory Thompson
City Times
On Nov. 14, Joanne Tawfilis, co-founder of the Art Miles Mural Project, came to City College to educate students about the importance of international education and self motivation.
Tawfilis started the hour by talking about her background in the Navy, her degree in art, time in business school and finally about her start in the United Nations Association (UNA). She wanted to make change in the world, and the UNA seemed the place to do it.
Tawfilis spoke about internships abroad offered by the UNA and what they look for in an applicant, stressing the importance of internships to give a true look into the field.
She said these internships provide training in multi-media, computers, languages, school, and even life. Tawfilis said, “Young people take action with passion,” pointing out where there’s no passion there isn’t much action. She emphasized that diversity cannot be avoided and that we should learn, respect and understand everyone no matter where they are from.
That is why the UNA has these internships – to open students’ eyes and see what is out there. One of their present interns is working on throwing a concert to raise money for the people who have been bombed across the world (concert will take place in February 2007).
Tawfilis also made a point to inform students that big companies are always offering internships that involve traveling.
At the end of the presentation Tawfilis stated, “When making a decision, follow your heart, head and tummy. And if these are all sync then nothing can go wrong.” She wanted the students to know that it is they who change the world.
For more information about the UNA internships there is a web site you can visit or even go to the UNA in Balboa Park. www.ipetitions.com/petition/UNASD_declaration/