Internship or Service Learning Course Option
Students at the advanced Spanish level may undertake an internship or service learning project for 3-4 credits as part of their regular Spanish Studies Abroad semester program. The internship or service learning is treated as a course, in addition to the student’s regular course schedule. Also available during summer programs in Córdoba and San Juan.
As an intern or service learning participant, you will be evaluated by the Resident Director and your supervisor in the workplace. Additionally, a written report is required of you at the end of the period.
Your home college or academic advisor may establish additional criteria for evaluation, grading, and granting of credit.
Due to complex labor laws and because internships are not completely within the control of Spanish Studies Abroad, even accepted applications for internships and service learning projects cannot be guaranteed. Therefore, as a potential intern/participant, you are advised to select an alternative course or an Independent Research Project in the event that a proposed internship/service learning fails to materialize. Please note that all internships are unpaid.
Fields for internship and service learning
When applying for an internship or service learning, you have the benefit of specifying what you would like your placement to look like, and we will strive to match you with the best available option. Students have completed internships and service learning projects in a variety of fields including legal offices, Greenpeace, television production, and education.
Animal Science/Horses
Communications
Community Service
Education
Health Services
International Business
Information Technology/ Graphic Design
Museums and Cultural Centers/Fine Art
Physical Therapy
Political Science
Public Relations
Social Work
Tourism
Internship/Service learning course application due dates
- Fall Semester: June 1st
- Spring Semester: December 1st
- Summer Term: May 1st
*During the second Summer Term in Seville, Spanish Studies offers a special internship for students interested in education called Practicum in Education. Students enrolled in this program work as Teacher’s Assistants in the Center’s Playschool program for Spanish children aged 4 to 12. In addition to receiving formal instruction in English, the children learn about the U.S. culture through arts & crafts, technology, games and theme week activities. Teacher’s Assistants combine the study of language-acquisition theory with teaching methodology while developing important cultural perspectives on the field of education.
Requirements
- Enrollment for either a semester or the full Academic Year in Seville, Alicante, Córdoba, or San Juan, or enrollment for the Summer Term in Córdoba or San Juan.
- Ability to understand normal, rapid Spanish. Completion of a minimum of one Spanish course at the advanced level.
- Academic or experiential preparation in the field.
- Submit an additional application for the Internship or Service Learning Course Option, which requires approval by your home institution, a resume in English, and an essay written in Spanish. Further instructions in your online application portal.
For-credit opportunities
Internships
Gain international work experience while studying abroad. Guidance from the Resident Director and internship supervisor helps you to navigate the local work culture.
Living The Culture
These special courses and workshops allow students to experience the culture first-hand while also earning credit. These courses can carry up to 3 credits and include Flamenco guitar, Spanish cooking, dance, paddleboarding, and more. You may arrange participation in these courses once you arrive in country.
Summer Practicum in Education
offered during Summer Term 2, this special program allows students to combine theoretical study with hands-on experience as Teacher Assistants in the Center’s Playschool for Spanish children.
Independent Research Project
All Spanish Studies students have the unique opportunity to combine your academic curiosity and direct access to Spanish and Argentine culture by completing an Independent Research Project (IRP). This personalized and flexible research program allows you to propose, design, and complete a research project that meets the specific requirements of your home college or university.
Service Learning
Give back to your host community by helping a local community service organization. Guided reflection and support from our staff help you to better integrate and contribute meaningfully to your host organization.
