» Summer Internship Programs

This six-week program offers two weeks of intensive Spanish language instruction and a four-week, full –time, guided academic internship.

This program is perfect for:

• Individuals who want to do MORE on their summer break.
• University students who would like to gain “real world” international experience in their   field of study.
• Individuals considering an international career.
• Students looking to improve their language skills.
• Individuals who want to work towards social justice and sustainable development in   Central America.
• Students seeking independent study or internship credit. 
• College students undecided on or thinking about changing their major but would like to   gain experience in a field before making a decision.
• Students conducting research and in need of contacts and logistical support.

SCHEDULE

Week One – Arrival, introduction to families, orientation, internship placement interviews, Spanish language classes. Weekend group excursion.

Week Two – Visits to internship sites, afternoon cultural activities, Spanish language courses.

Week Three – Internships

Week Four – Internships; Mid-term evaluation.

Week Five – Internships.

Week Six – Internships and final evaluations. Internship presentations.

WHY INTERN WITH US?

We are a professional organization dedicated to promoting sustainable social, economic, and environmental development in Nicaragua. We strive to (1) meet the needs of qualified individuals desiring practical work experience and to (2) support the efforts of social and environmental organizations and institutions that host interns.

Viva Nicaragua! is committed to ensuring a positive and rewarding internship experience for both the intern and the host organization. To guarantee this, our role extends beyond the actual internship placement to providing many additional services and support.

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We provide:

• Academic/professional internship placement based upon careful assessment of both the   needs and skills of the intern and those of the host organization.
• Formal review of internship application and submission of applicant’s profile to suitable   organizations in order to insure that the internship is right for the intern and that the   intern’s skills, background, and interest match those needed by the host organization. This   ensures a positive and productive work experience for both the intern and the  collaborating organization.
• A work/learning contract signed both by the intern and the collaborating organization. The   contract details the responsibilities of the intern and host organization and the concrete   project(s) that the intern will implement during a specified time frame.
• Monetary and material donations given to each collaborating organization for each intern   hosted.
• A stipend for materials needed by the intern to complete his/her project.
• Continued supervision and guidance throughout the   internship to insure that both the   intern and host institution are complying with their contracted responsibilities.
• Resolution of any problems that may arise during the internship.
• Assistance in designing programs, developing projects, making necessary contacts, and   acquiring needed supplies/materials
• Mid-term and final project evaluations.

In addition, we provide the following logistical support:

• Pre and post arrival orientation information.
• Family placement.
• Airport pick-up
• Cultural and/or recreational activities.
• Weekend excursion
• Orientation/safety information
• Weekend/after program travel assistance.
• Emergency assistance
• Staff available 24-hours a day to meet any need
• Re-entry adjustment information

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REQUIREMENTS

• Spanish
  Some, but not all, placements require a certain level of Spanish proficiency. We   recommend at least one-year of college Spanish for most internship placements.

• While the internships are not paid, they are serious work commitments. Interns must be   prepared to commit to a full-time work schedule  in accordance with the work hours of   the host organizations.

• Interns must be at least 18 years old or have parental permission.

• The only additional requirement is that you are an independent and motivated individual,   dedicated to making a difference!

INTERN RESPONSIBILITIES

While these are unpaid internships, you are required to maintain a certain level of professional etiquette. Be on time (even when others in the organization are not), dress appropriately, and let your supervisor know if you are ill and unable to work. Taking time off to travel is not accepted. You must fulfill your entire contracted work commitment. If you decide to end your project early, you will not be reimbursed.

Throughout the internship, Viva Nicaragua! staff evaluates the work and effort of the intern. If the intern is not fulfilling his/her work contract, he/she may be dismissed without reimbursement.

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HOUSING/ACCOMODATIONS

Interns stay with pre-screened and carefully selected local families. This is the best way to integrate into the culture and language. Family stays include 3 meals a day and laundry service.

PROGRAM COSTS - $2160

Program fees include the following:
Family stay including three meals a day
Ten half-days of intensive Spanish language instruction 
Internship placement
Pre- and post- arrival advising and orientation
Monitoring and evaluation throughout the internship
Written internship evaluation (useful for obtaining academic credit
Airport pick-up
One weekend excursion to the San Juan del Sur beach
Donation to the internship site.

Items not included in the cost: Return transportation to the airport, airfare, passport and/or visa fees, additional weekend travel expenses, any accrued medical expenses, and departure taxes.

Applicants must submit a $200 non-refundable deposit.

Fees must be paid in full before or upon arrival.

Program fees are non-refundable.

Viva Nicaragua! is more than a placement organization.  We are committed to supporting social justice and sustainable development efforts in Nicaragua..  A portion of your placement fee is donated to the internship organizations.  We maintain a fund that is donated annually to new development and research projects.     When you intern with us, you not only support these efforts with your time and  knowledge, but also provide much needed economic support.   

Why pay to intern?

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APPLICATION PROCESS

Application Deadline: April 7, 2008

1) Download and submit your application to apply@nicaraguainternships.org

2) After receiving your application, we will send you a confirmation letter and deposit request. Deposit deadline: April 21, 2008

3) Mail a signed copy of your application along with your resume to:
Viva Nicaragua!
P.O. Box 02-5640, Nica 867
Miami, FL 33102-5640

4) Upon receipt of your signed application and non-refundable deposit, we will send a confirmation letter along with important country and program information.

5) Upon careful review of your application, we will notify you if you have been placed. You are not officially accepted into the program until you receive a placement confirmation letter. This process usually takes one week to ten days.

6) Complete cash payment is due on or before your program start date.

7) There will be no refunds after the program has begun. In the event of a personal emergency, we will review the situation and may issue a partial refund.

 DOWNLOAD APPLICATION

Questions? Contact us!

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