Students: Become a Global Citizen by Interning Abroad

The 2016/17 academic year is well underway across North America. Between busy class schedules and assignments, hundreds of university students are already planning ahead for internship and study abroad opportunities during the upcoming months. According to international volunteer organization Projects Abroad, there has never been a better time for students to intern abroad and challenge themselves to better understand world issues.

"An international internship is a priceless experience for every student at any point in their academic career," says Tom Pastorius, Head of Global Recruitment for Projects Abroad. "We are thrilled to see increasing numbers of students seize the opportunity to get real-world experience outside of their home countries. It has an impact on their personal and professional development, they get a deeper insight into issues affecting the world today, and they take the first step toward becoming leaders and global citizens."

Projects Abroad has numerous Intern Abroad programs located around the world that can be joined throughout the year. These programs are a big departure from the typical internships at home, and the chance to explore the world while honing their skills and giving back is one that more and more students are eager to have during their university years, and before they jump into full-time careers. Here are the most important points for students looking to intern abroad with Projects Abroad:

• There are dozens of programs available in different fields, such as Medicine and Health Care, Law and Human Rights, Microfinance, and Veterinary Medicine. Students can join an internship directly related to their field of study or switch their focus to experience something new.
• Students of all skill levels can join, whether they are undergraduates, postgraduates, or recent graduates.
• Each program is entirely flexible. Interns can choose their own start and end dates and how commit for however long they can. This means that internships can fit in with any schedule (no matter how packed) during a semester or vacation.
• Interns work under the supervision of and alongside qualified professionals. They learn from their local colleagues and share their own skills in return, resulting in a cultural and skills exchange.
• Students can speak to a school advisor about receiving academic credit for their internships.

The organization coordinates all details of every placement, including accommodation, insurance, and work-related travel in destination. For more information about interning abroad with Projects Abroad, please visitwww.projects-abroad.ca/volunteer-projects/intern-abroad.