Originally from Canada, Fayzeh Abou Ardat is a Political Science major at John Cabot University, minoring in Legal Studies. She recently completed an internship as a Digital Communications Officer at The Sovereign Military Order of Malta. Founded in 1048, the Order of Malta is a lay religious Catholic order and an independent subject of international law with medical and humanitarian projects in 130 countries.
Fayzeh secured this opportunity through JCU’s Center for Career Services, which helped her connect her academic studies with a meaningful professional experience. Fayzeh shared insights into her day-to-day responsibilities, the skills she developed, and how this experience is shaping her future career.
What did your role involve on a day-to-day basis?
My role as Digital Communications Officer involved supporting the Order of Malta’s online presence and communications strategy. This included drafting and editing content for social media and other digital platforms, assisting with visual and written storytelling around the Order’s humanitarian and diplomatic work, and helping ensure consistency in tone and messaging. I also contributed to content planning, monitored engagement, and collaborated with team members to tailor the Order’s communications for different audiences.
What skills have you developed during this experience?
Professionally, I strengthened my digital communications skills, particularly in content creation, strategic messaging, and adapting complex institutional work for public audiences. I also developed a stronger understanding of communications within an international and diplomatic context.
Personally, I grew in confidence, professionalism, and adaptability. I learned how to work independently while also contributing effectively to a team in a fast-paced, high-profile environment.
What did you enjoy most about working at the Order of Malta?
What I enjoyed most was being part of an organization with a strong humanitarian mission and centuries-long history, while still engaging with modern forms of communication. It was especially rewarding to contribute to work that highlights global humanitarian efforts and diplomatic initiatives, knowing that the content I helped produce served a meaningful purpose beyond visibility alone.
The Order of Malta is located on Via dei Condotti, in the heart of Rome. Did the location contribute to your overall experience?
Absolutely. Working on Via dei Condotti placed me at the intersection of history, diplomacy, and contemporary Roman life. Being in such a central and symbolic location enhanced my daily experience and reinforced the international significance of the Order. It also made the internship feel deeply connected to Rome’s political, cultural, and historical landscape, which added to both my professional motivation and personal appreciation of the city.
In what ways has JCU Career Services supported you?
JCU Career Services played a key role in helping me obtain and succeed in this internship. They provided guidance throughout the application process, helped refine my professional materials, and offered ongoing support as I navigated my role. Their resources and mentorship were instrumental in connecting my academic interests with a meaningful professional opportunity.
Where do you see yourself next?
Moving forward, I see myself continuing to build a career at the intersection of communications, international affairs, and humanitarian or nonprofit work. This experience has confirmed my interest in roles that combine strategic communication with global engagement, and I hope to further develop these skills through future internships, graduate studies, or professional opportunities in an international setting.
