Frequently Asked Questions:
MSU-sponsored International Academic Internships

(This supplements the MSU International Academic Internships chart - available as a link from http://studyabroad.msu.edu/internships/index.html - that describes internship location, number of credits, type of jobs, semester, eligibility, and majors)

Why should I consider an internship instead of a study abroad program?

International academic internships are an excellent way to apply ideas, concepts, theories and principles acquired in an academic program to the professional world. They allow you to establish and address personal and professional development goals; develop necessary employment skills and strategies; and identify your professional strengths and limitations while learning the structure and operation of an international organization. International internships will help you gain a better understanding of the changing world of work and how to develop career planning and decision-making skills for the future. They will also allow you to explore various formal and informal organizational structures, communication styles and work cultures.

How do they work and when are they offered?

MSU-sponsored international academic internships are offered in a variety of ways and at various times. Some of the offerings stand alone, meaning that you can participate in a full-time internship for varying lengths of time throughout the year. Other internships require that you enroll in a study abroad program, either simultaneously or immediately before the internship. Check the MSU International Academic Internships chart under "Semester" for the timing and "Eligibility" for whether the offerings are tied to participation in a study abroad program.

How do I get placed into an internship that fits my needs?

Each internship requires a different placement process. In most cases, an on-site contact will work with the MSU Office of Study Abroad to facilitate a placement; however, some programs will require that you work directly with the local coordinator for your placement. Check the program information sheet or with the Office of Study Abroad staff for the suggested procedure.

What type of credit will I earn?

All MSU-sponsored international academic internships offer varying amounts and types of credit. Academic arrangements will need to be made through your MSU college. Check http://careernetwork.msu.edu/contactus for a listing of your current college Faculty/Staff Contact for Internship Development. This person can assist you with the specifics of developing and earning credit for an international academic internship. If the internship is affiliated with an MSU study abroad program, the Office of Study Abroad staff or faculty leader will be able to inform you of the process for obtaining internship credits.

Do I get paid?

Because of the difficulties created by visa requirements, and because of MSU's desire to not displace local workers, most internships will not be paid. However, local hosts and organizations may help to defray associated costs such as subsidized housing, transportation costs, and/or food expenses. Check the specific program information sheet or study abroad Web site at (http://studyabroad.msu.edu) for details.

Do I need to know a foreign language?

If your internship is associated with a study abroad program, you will need to meet the eligibility requirements that may include foreign language skills. Check the program information sheet or program Web site for the eligibility requirements. In many cases no foreign language ability is required.

Where will I live?

Living arrangements can be in a variety of accommodations such as residence halls (for internships that take place during study abroad programs), homestays, or apartment housing. Homestays are one of the best ways to learn about a new culture, new language, and adjust to your new environment.

How much does it cost?

Every internship offering costs a different amount. Refer to the study abroad Web site for the current program fees.

How can I get help to pay for it?

Because all MSU-sponsored international academic internships offer credit, financial assistance is handled in the same manner as for study abroad programs. Financial assistance is available when students make appropriate arrangements with MSU's Office of Study Abroad and Office of Financial Aid. All students planning to use financial aid toward an internship must indicate their intentions on the study abroad application form. Your financial aid award package will be based on the number of credits in which you enroll.

Scholarships are also available through the Office of Study Abroad. Requirements are listed in the application instructions for each type of award. Many MSU colleges have special study abroad scholarships that also apply to internships. Check the study abroad Web site under "Scholarships" and "You can't afford NOT to study abroad" for information on these and other funding ideas.

How do I apply?

Once you have obtained academic approval for your internship, obtain an application from the Office of Study Abroad at 109 International Center or the Web (studyabroad.msu.edu) and submit a completed and signed application. (Check the individual internship or program information sheets for the application process.) You may also apply on-line (see http://ntweb11.ais.msu.edu/osa_db/overview.htm). As part of your application, you may be asked to submit a resume (see http://careernetwork.msu.edu/students/findingajob/resumes-letters-1 for resume critiquing) and an essay that addresses your internship interests. You should refer to the kinds of internships that interest you, describe your academic background and interests, and refer to any relevant work or extra-curricular experiences you have. You may be invited to a screening interview to confirm your suitability.

What happens if none of these MSU offerings suit my needs and interests?

You are free to consider participation in a non-MSU internship offering. You may wish to begin your search with a list of Web sites (see links to internship resources at http://studyabroad.msu.edu/internships/index.html). One of the most comprehensive sites on the resource list is that of the University of Michigan (http://internationalcenter.umich.edu/swt/). Alternatively, you may seek to identify your own internship. Because of the challenges in setting up your own internship, you will probably need assistance from someone on-site. You may be able to identify this person through personal or professional contacts, as well as colleagues of professors within your department. Once you have identified an internship, you can follow the same process indicated in this text.

Who can tell me more about these offerings?

Check the MSU International Academic Internships chart (http://www.studyabroad.msu.edu/internships/index.html) for Web sites and descriptions that will refer you to resources.

September 2007