Darren Wong

The cross-divisional Futures Unit anticipates and analyses emerging trends, opportunities, and threats so that MDDI is informed and better prepared for the future.

Darren is a Geography graduate from Cambridge University, who completed a 5-month internship with the Futures Unit in MCI (now-MDDI).

If you are looking for a meaningful internship in the Civil Service, read on to find out what it’s like to intern at MDDI.

We spoke with Darren Wong to find out more of his personal #LifeatMDDI experience.

Hi Darren! What made you apply for an internship at MCI (now-MDDI)?

Having completed an internship in the Futures Unit at the Prime Minister’s Office, I jumped at the opportunity to intern at MCI to gain new experiences in this new and exciting field.

What was your internship experience at the Futures Unit like?

I was involved in two projects during my internship with the Futures Unit: one on disinformation, which we are all becoming too familiar with; and the other on identity politics. The latter involved studying the varied viewpoints of different demographics, their info consumption and dissemination habits.

That sounds like interesting work! What were the key highlights of your internship?

I was given the opportunity to intern at MCI (now-MDDI), even while studying overseas although I flew back to Singapore midway through my internship in January 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I really enjoyed the opportunities to conduct in-person presentations and appreciated that those I presented to, including Ministers, MCI’s Permanent Secretary and Directors saw value in the work that I was doing.

What were your biggest takeaways from your internship?

I learnt the importance of knowing your audience and pitching ideas in a way that is understandable and palatable. As futures work is complex, the information we present may be hard to understand. So, there is a need to frame it in a reader-centric way.

How would you describe MCI (now-MDDI) to your peers?

MCI was a really enjoyable place to work at. My colleagues were very kind to show me around the office and even helped me with preparations prior to my presentations. It was a fun experience. As a Ministry, it is future-driven, so everyone is open to new perspectives. It’s a dynamic and positive place to work.

Any advice for students or fresh graduates interested to intern at MCI (now-MDDI)?

I would say go for it! Don’t expect the work to be easy, but don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. You won’t be expected to know everything. I was fortunate to have very good mentors during my internship.

Lastly, tell us something interesting about yourself!

Firstly, I ran a half marathon while studying at Cambridge University. It was a fantastic experience. Families living along the route in the university town came out of their houses and lined the roads to cheer us on and gave us the much-needed support and motivation to keep going.

Secondly, I hope to be working in the Civil Service after I complete my studies. But first, I’ll be pursuing my Master’s in the super tech-driven state of California!

Interested in an internship at MDDI?

Click here to apply as an #MDDIIntern today!