This internship program is for students in the International Studies and certificate programs.
Questions?
Instructor of record: Dr. Catherine Cutcher
Email cutcher@ohio.edu
Or call Yamada front desk for appointment: 740-593-1840
Purpose of the Course
This course is designed to allow for a practical experience in an international organization abroad to complement the theoretical base supplied in area studies and comparative cultures courses. The applied experience allows students to how cross-cultural issues and second-language usage are manifested in a work environment. The internship experience also lets student identify personal learning goals that will enhance their career prospects.
Outline of the Course
Student will identify an appropriate organization for the internship, such as non-governmental organizations involved in international activity; private voluntary organizations involved in development assistance or promotion of international educational exchange; local, state and federal government agencies or departments engaged in international activities; and private businesses doing business internationally. Students' work will be determined by the instructor and the immediate supervisor to whom the student will report.
It is expected that students will be able to examine within the internship experience the way in which cross-cultural issues and utilization of a second-language impact the organization and the management strategies employed to address these issues.
Requirements
Students are expected to work 25 hours for each credit generated for the internship. No more than 6 hours of internship will count toward the major or certificate.
The Validation of Internship form must be completed by the student, signed by the Supervisor, and submitted to the instructor before the student begins work for the internship and before the student will be permitted to register for the class. The forms found on the Office of Global Opportunities website must also be completed at least 3 weeks prior to departure.
At the completion of the internship, the student will submit the Internship Performance Review form (completed by their supervisor), and a paper or blog to the instructor via e-mail by the end of the final day of classes. Once a student satisfactorily completes all requirements stated above, students will be awarded “CR” grade. If requirements are not met, student will receive an “F”. If the student is unclear of these expectations, they are encouraged to contact the instructor by e-mail or by making an appointment at least a week before the end of the final day of classes.
Guidelines for the Paper
Students should keep a journal of their experiences during the internship to assist in writing this paper or blog. The paper/blog should answer these questions:
- What were your day to day duties?
- How was the organization structured? How did it function?
- What are the most valuable things that you learned, both technically and professionally?
- How has your academic work thus far prepared you for the internship?
- Would you recommend this internship to another student?
- List your strengths and weaknesses within the internship experience.
- Comment upon your ability to deal with cross cultural issues and to function in a second language.