Philippe Aubert
University degree: Master in International History
Job: Consultant
United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)
How did you start your career?
During my third semester at the Graduate Institute I did an internship at the
Multilateral Diplomacy Programme of the United Nations Institute for Training and
Research (UNITAR), which I secured through a posting on the Career Services
website. I then kept on working there, first on customized projects with governments
and international organizations and now I am in charge of the Programme's Core
Diplomatic Activities in Geneva, Vienna, Rome as well as at UN Offices in the host
cities of UN regional economic commissions.
Why did you choose to study at the Graduate
Institute?
My motivation to study at the Graduate Institute was
threefold. First of all, having studied and worked
abroad prior to coming to Graduate Institute, I wanted
to experience again a unique, multicultural and
vibrant environment. Graduate Institute’s reputation
in Switzerland and worldwide was the second reason.
Finally the third reason was the opportunity to study
in one of the world’s largest centres for multilateral
diplomacy.
“Having students and
professors from more
than 100 countries
working with me was a
strong asset that
encouraged me to think
outside the box.”
Why did you choose a career at UNITAR?
Having already worked in a bilateral context for the Embassy of Switzerland in
Australia I was curious to have an experience in a multilateral setting. Hence the
United Nations was one of the many possibilities to do so in Geneva.
In your opinion, what are the qualities necessary for a successful career at
UNITAR’s Multilateral Diplomacy Programme?
A few characteristics that I consider essential in order to work for UNITAR would be
the following: strong analytical and research skills, work independently, take
initiatives, being creative, and feeling confident in a multicultural environment.
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Did the Graduate Institute prepare you well?
It certainly did. Beyond the great knowledge I learned during my studies at the
Graduate Institute I built several skills that prepared me well for the professional
world, such as strong drafting and analytical skills, an ease to adopt a critical
approach, and the capacity to understand and synthesize a large quantity of
information.
What advantage did the Institute give you from an intellectual point of view?
Having students and professors from more than 100 countries working with me was
a strong asset that encouraged me to think outside the box. The Institute really
challenged me to go beyond my own perceptions and to be more analytical.
How did you benefit from your position at UNITAR’s Multilateral Diplomacy
Programme?
When I was looking for an internship (and possibly a professional experience after
it), I was hoping to secure a job in Geneva that would also allow me to travel, and
during which I would be able to work both on content and on logistical and
administrative matters. I think these criteria were met.
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