SF IR internship Archives

Intern Spotlight: Lily Langley

Meet Our Spring 2025 Intern!

Meet Lily Langley, one of our International Programs interns this spring. Lily recently graduated from the University of San Francisco, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies with a concentration in Global Politics and Societies and a regional focus in Europe, as well as a minor in German Studies.

“During this internship, I am most looking forward to gaining experience with an organization dedicated to international affairs and diplomacy. I am also eager to discover and promote the Bay Area’s diverse expertise to the global community, helping foster cross-cultural connections and the exchange of ideas.”

Lily’s passion for languages, diplomacy, tourism, and international relations drew her to Global Ties San Francisco. At USF, she deepened her academic interests in language and global politics, and her time abroad inspired her to continue engaging with new cultures. She is excited that this internship program allows her to explore these interests further in a professional setting.

Outside of work, Lily enjoys going to the movies, crafting, and reading. She especially likes books with compelling protagonists, creative retellings, and unique settings.

Welcome to the intern team, Lily!

Explore Our Internships

May 26, 2025/by Alannah Crandall

Intern Spotlight

Intern Spotlight: Valleigh Brechtel

Meet Our Spring 2025 Intern!

Meet Valleigh Brechtel, one of our International Programs interns this spring. A Political Science major at Westmont College, Valleigh brings a deep interest in international diplomacy and cross-cultural understanding to her role.

This internship stood out to her for its strong emphasis on international relations and the unique opportunity to engage with people from around the world.

“I’ve always been interested in pursuing a career that contributes to global peace and allows me to learn about different cultures and countries. […] Engaging with people outside the United States highly intrigues me, as it deepens my understanding of global issues and how international engagement can drive peace.”

During her time with Global Ties San Francisco, she is most looking forward to expanding her knowledge of international diplomacy and gaining a deeper understanding of how different international policies function.

Valleigh’s most memorable adventure to date was taking a half gap-year to Central America after graduating high school early, solo backpacking through Costa Rica, Panama, and Nicaragua. The journey challenged and shaped her in many ways — whether surfing big waves, enduring 11-hour bus rides, or staying in 16-bed shared hostels. Moreover, living with local host families gave her meaningful insights into other cultures, an experience that further fueled her passion for advancing international understanding.

In her spare time, Valleigh enjoys art, traveling, surfing, and cooking.

Welcome to the intern team, Valleigh!

Explore Our Internships

April 19, 2025/by Alannah Crandall

Intern Spotlight

Intern Spotlight: Song Held

Meet Our Spring 2025 Intern!

Song Held is a spring 2025 International Programs intern at Global Ties San Francisco and a student at the University of San Francisco, majoring in International Studies. As she refines her academic concentration, she finds particular interest in peace and conflict studies with a regional focus on the Middle East.

“During this internship, I am most looking forward to learning about the processes, management, and impact of such a globally connected organization. I am also excited to be part of a team that connects inspiring figures to address global issues.”

One of the most transformative experiences in Song’s life to date was a three-month exchange program in Berlin, Germany, where she lived with a host family, attended school, and immersed herself in a new culture and language. This study abroad experience sparked her interest in International Studies and ultimately led her to Global Ties San Francisco. She was also drawn to this internship because of her passion for journalism, foreign and legal policy, and women’s empowerment — topics she is eager to explore further through our hands-on experience.

In her spare time, Song loves to cook, write, run, and travel when possible. As part of the Global Ties San Francisco intern team, she looks forward to meeting new people, contributing to the planning of critical exchange programs, and learning more about the world.

Welcome to the intern team, Song!

Explore Our Internships

March 26, 2025/by Alannah Crandall