Programs: Summer Internship and Cultural Training Program

«I think ICADS gives students so much room to develop independently while providing them profound opportunities. ICADS has been life changing for virtually everyone here. »

ICADS Student
Summer Internship
Spring 2005.

Overview

This program is designed for individuals who want institutional support but need typically neither an ICADS full semester program nor academic credits. This summer program is best for those who are interested in a field experience in Costa Rica but not necessarily a structured academic program. The Summer Internship and Cultural Training Program may be a good fit for you if you are:

• A high school graduate who would like a rigorous internship experience before entering college.
• A college student who wishes to try out possible careers in international development fields

Students spend the first three weeks of the program in intensive Spanish classes (four hours per day, 5 days a week) geared to the individual abilities and needs of each participant.

Also during the first three weeks, students explore various internship sites to decide on a placement. Students then spend six weeks in their internship, although a longer stay can be negotiated based on student needs. Both the on-site supervisor and the ICADS placement coordinator closely monitor the internship to ensure that the student is accomplishing his/her goals.

No two internships are alike. Some require scientific research, some hands-on work; however, all require the intern’s individual initiative and creativity for carrying out appropriate tasks.

Some internships, particularly in the medical field, may have certain requirements in terms of previous experience and/or formal education.

Upon completion of the internship, students return to the Institute for the last few days to finish up written work, present their work to their peers, and prepare for the trip home.