The below listed organizations offer internships, including those pertaining to issues of Latin America & the Caribbean. Each organization’s specific offerings vary greatly. For your convenience, each link takes you directly to the internship program page.
These links are provided for informational purposes. Please schedule a meeting with us, by filling out the Consultation Request, to go over your personal internship goals and objectives and to review your resume before applying.
| Organization | Description | Deadlines | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amnesty International | Global movement to promote human rights and fight against injustices in the world | Rolling admissions throughout the year | Requirements vary and are specific to position available |
| Ashoka | Network focused on building and supporting social entrepreneurship for groups and individuals | Rolling admissions throughout the year | Internship is matched to applicant's qualifications |
| AshokaU | Branch of Ashoka with similar focus specific to Higher Education | Rolling admissions throughout the year | Must demonstrate interest in Higher Education; Previous office experience preffered; Excellent writing skills |
| BlueEnergy | blueEnergy delivers energy, water, and sanitation to some of the world’s most isolated, marginalized communities, providing a foundation for health, education, and economic opportunity within the context of a changing climate. blueEnergy's Global Leadership Program gives participants the opportunity to explore our award-winning community development model, apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations, grow personally and professionally, and create local impact. | May 23-June 19, June 20-July 17 (only open to participants in the Full 8-week Program), July 18-August 14; Full Program is 2 Sessions (8 weeks), Condensed Program is 1 Session (4 weeks) | Designed for current college students. There is no language requirement. Languages spoken during the program are primarily Spanish, English and English Creole. Introductory Spanish language ability can strengthen the participant’s experience and Spanish language training is included in the program offering. See Web site for more details. |
| Center for Economic and Policy Research | The Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR) was established in 1999 to promote democratic debate on the most important economic and social issues that affect people's lives. In order for citizens to effectively exercise their voices in a democracy, they should be informed about the problems and choices that they face. CEPR is committed to presenting issues in an accurate and understandable manner, so that the public is better prepared to choose among the various policy options. | Various; see individual postings | Various; see individual postings |
| Coca-Cola Latin America Group | Coke's Latin America Group comprises a total of 41 countries, from Mexico to Argentina, clustered in four Business Units that include: Mexico, Latin Center, Brazil and South Latin. | Rolling admissions throughout the year | Various; see individual postings |
| Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute | Focused on exposing and promoting young latinos in legislation and to build professional and leadership skills | By Semester: November 6, 2015 ( Spring 2016 ) January 22, 2016 ( Summer 2016 ) April 22, 2016 ( Fall 2016 ) | 3.0 GPA, Full-time student, Leadership and public service experience, great analytical skills, oral/writing skills, and must have documentation to work in the U.S. |
| CWS Immigrant & Refugee Services | Helps refugees with resettlement and gaining economic self-sufficiency through services such as job workshops or home set up. | Limited availability; inquire to efeldman@fiu.edu if interested. | Must be bilingual, preferrably English and Spanish; other requirements are specific to position available |
| Department of State - U.S. | Focuses on foreign policy and diplomacy in the United States with places abroad. There are 2 different types of internships available: Pathways and Student Internship. | Rolling admissions throughout the year | U.S. Citizenship, enrolled in an academic institution, must have a minimum of 2.0 GPA; other requirements are specific to the position available |
| FHI 360 | Not for profit focused on human development by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions through a variety of disciplines such as health, education, nutrition, etc. | Rolling admissions throughout the year | Requirements vary and are specific to position available |
| Global Ties Miami | GTM arranges facilitates professional, educational, and cultural exchanges for participants of the State Department’s International Visitor Leadership Program. | Limited availability; inquire to efeldman@fiu.edu if interested. | Varies by posting. |
| Global Voices | We have hundreds of volunteer authors covering more than 160 countries around the world. Are you a keen analyst of social media, independent media or blogs about a region that is largely ignored or misrepresented by traditional media? Please apply to join our volunteer team of writers. | Rolling admissions throughout the year | See Web site. |
| Guatemalan Human Rights Commission | Depending on their interests, interns can hone their translating and editing skills working on our quarterly publication, gain experience planning and organizing events (such as fundraisers, speaking tours, or delegations to Guatemala), fine-tune their research skills assisting staff with affidavits for political asylum cases, and learn up-close how a nonprofit organization functions. - Location: Washington, D.C. | Fall, Spring, and Summer internships available. Check site for up-to-date-deadlines | Strong written and oral skills, both in English and Spanish (ability to translate is particularly useful) Minimum commitment of 15-20 hours per week Interns must be in the Washington, DC area for the internship and may not work from off-site, though a combination of on and off site work may be considered |
| Human Rights Watch | Human Rights Watch is a nonprofit, nongovernmental human rights organization made up of roughly 400 staff members around the globe. Its staff consists of human rights professionals including country experts, lawyers, journalists, and academics of diverse backgrounds and nationalities. | Various; see individual postings | Various; see individual postings |
| International Rescue Committee | Responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises such as Human trafficking and other related emerging crises. | Rolling admissions throughout the year | Requirements vary and are specific to position available |
| Latin American News Digest | -- | -- | -- |
| Latin America Working Group | The Latin America Working Group (LAWG) seeks interns year round to assist with our efforts to promote a just U.S. policy towards Latin America. LAWG is an ideal place to gain experience in advocacy work for any issue and provides a thorough introduction into how human rights and peace groups influence and shape U.S. foreign policy. - Location: Washington, D.C. | November 6 for Winter/Spring Semester (Jan.-May) March 14 for Summer Semester (June-Aug.) July 12 for Fall Semester (Sept.-Dec.) | To be considered for the internship program, LAWG requires the following materials: Cover letter that states: Availability, Internship preference (Colombia, Cuba, Mexico), Spanish language skills, What you hope to gain from an internship experience at LAWG Resume that includes relevant coursework Writing sample (2-3 pages maximum) that focuses on a issue surrounding Latin America, U.S. Policy towards Latin America, human rights issues/advocacy. It can be an academic paper, blog post, or news article |
| League of United Latin American Citizens | Interns can combine their academic interests with real-world experience in any of the following areas: youth programs, education programs, policy and legislation, health programs, communications, special events, resource development, health policy, immigration reform, education policy, LGBT policy, community mobilization, civic engagement, and federal relations. - Location Washington, D.C. | Summer 2016: Semester and quarter application period: February 1, 2016 - April 1, 2016 Internship program dates: May 31 - July 29, 2016 Fall 2016: Semester and quarter application period: June 1, 2016 - August 1, 2016; Internship dates: TBD | The ability to write and speak Spanish (not required) and English fluently is highly desirable as is extensive experience with using computer software. |
| Miami-Dade County | Internships are completed through a variety of county departments. If selected, intern will be placed in department according to major and interests. | Rolling admissions throughout the year | Enrolled in university or college, submit three letters of reference, copy of college transcripts, and complete application |
| Network in Solidarity with the People of Guatemala | NISGUA welcomes unpaid interns to work out of our U.S. office and provides an opportunity for them to work on substantive projects within a number of different program areas, including publication of activist materials, campaign and program development, and research on key human rights topics. Other tasks may include written translation, event or delegation organizing, monitoring of the Guatemalan press, and updating activist materials. | The minimum internship length is three months, and interns are asked to commit a minimum of 20 hours per week, preferably in the morning and early afternoons. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. | Interest in Guatemala, commitment to social change, ability to work independently and with others. Strong writing and oral communication skills. |
| National Community Reinvestment Coalition | The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) was formed in 1990 by national, regional, and local organizations to develop and harness the collective energies of community reinvestment organizations from across the country so as to increase the flow of private capital into traditionally underserved communities. | To intern during the Summer (May-August) period please apply by May 15th. To intern during the Fall (September-December) period please apply by May 15th. | See individual postings |
| National Public Radio | Non-profit organization that nationally syndicates around 900 public radio stations. Stations or programs focus on a wide variety of topics. | By Semester: Spring 2016: Nov. 1 Summer 2016: Mar. 6 Fall 2016: July 10 | Must demonstrate great writing and research ability; other requirements are specific to position available |
| North American Congress on Latin America Magazine | NACLA Report on the Americas is the oldest and most widely read progressive magazine covering Latin America and its relationship with the United States. Published since 1967, the award-winning NACLA Report is a quarterly magazine of news and analysis. | Rolling admissions throughout the year | Various; see individual postings |
| Oxfam America | Oxfam America is a global organization working to right the wrongs of poverty, hunger, and injustice. As one of 18 members of the international Oxfam confederation, we work with people in more than 90 countries to create lasting solutions. Oxfam saves lives, develops long-term solutions to poverty, and campaigns for social change. | Various; see individual postings | Various; see individual postings |
| Peace Jam | Non-profit that aims to create young leaders committed to positive change in themselves, their communities and the world through the inspiration of Nobel Peace Laureates. | Rolling admissions throughout the year | Clearance through criminal background check |
| Polk State College Institute for Global Initiatives | The Institute manages global studies courses, study abroad, and international internships to Polk State students | Limited availability; inquire to efeldman@fiu.edu if interested. | Must be a graduate student in the FIU College of Education pursuing an MS degree in international education, higher education administration, or related field. Minimum GPA 3.0 |
| RESULTS | Focuses on helping volunteers build advocacy skills to end poverty. | Rolling admissions throughout the year | Requirements vary and are specific to position available |
| Transparency International | Gives voice to the victims and witnesses of corruption. Collaborates with governments, businesses and citizens to stop the abuse of power, bribery and secret deals. | Deadline for summer internships is April 15th annually | Requirements vary and are specific to position available |
| United Nations | International organization founded in 1945 and committed to maintaining international peace and security; developing friendly relations among nations; promoting social progress, better living standards and human rights. Focuses on a wide variety of issues. | Rolling admissions throughout the year | Requirements vary and are specific to position available |
| UNICEF | Working to improve the lives of children and their families. UNICEF also lobbies and partners with leaders, thinkers and policy makers to help all children realize their rights—especially the most disadvantaged. | Rolling admissions throughout the year | Enrolled in university or college; Proficient in English, Spanish, or French depending to the office you are applying to; excellent academic record demonstrated in transcripts; prior work experience is preferred; other requirements vary and are specific to position available |
| UNICEF USA | The U.S. Fund for UNICEF supports UNICEF's work, and other efforts in support of the world's children, through fundraising, advocacy and education in the United States. | Rolling admissions throughout the year | Requirements vary and are specific to position available |
| United Nations Foundation | The United Nations Foundation links the UN’s work with others around the world, mobilizing the energy and expertise of business and non-governmental organizations to help the UN tackle issues including climate change, global health, peace and security, women's empowerment, poverty eradication, energy access, and U.S.-UN relations | The United Nations Foundation offers unpaid semester-long full and part-time internships during the fall (roughly September -December), spring (roughly January-April), and summer terms (roughly May-August). | Applicants must be enrolled in a degree-granting program during the internship or must be a recent graduate (within 8 months of graduation) of a college or university with a demonstrated interest in the UN and international development. |
| USAID | Partners to end extreme poverty and to promote resilient, democratic societies while advancing our security and prosperity. | Rolling admissions throughout the year | Enrolled in academic institution, 3.0 GPA (case by case basis if lower), good academic standing as indicated on transcripts, security clearance, U.S citizen |
| US Chamber of Commerce | Fights for business and free enterprise before Congress, the White House, regulatory agencies, the courts, the court of public opinion, and governments around the world. | Rolling admissions throughout the year | Requirements vary and are specific to position available |
| USSOUTHCOM (United States Southern Command) | The Southern Command, known as USSOUTHCOM, is the administrative and leadership arm of the combined combatant command of US military operations responsible for South America, Central America and the Caribbean. | Limited availability; inquire to efeldman@fiu.edu if interested. | Individuals from many disciplines will be welcomed at SOUTHCOM – including Political Science, History, Sociology, International Relations, Business, Computer Science, Public Administration, Public Health, Public Relations, Law and Criminal Justice. Applicants to the internship program will be required to submit two letters of recommendation from faculty members and attend an interview at the Gordon Institute (LC 220 Modesto Maidique Campus). In order to be referred to SOUTHCOM an applicant must: Be a citizen of the USA (dual citizenship not permitted) |
| Washington Center | Provides students with transformational experiences that foster academic and professional achievement, leadership and civic engagement. | By Semester: Spring 2016: Priority - Oct. 14, Regular - Nov. 18 Summer 2016: Priority - Feb. 17 Regular - Mar. 16 Fall 2016: Priority - May 4 Regular - June 8 | At least 18 years old, at least a sophomore, minimum of 2.75 GPA (case by case basis if lower), must be able receive academic credit through university, have approval of campus liaison or faculty sponsor |
| Washington Office on Latin America | WOLA’s Sally Yudelman Internship Program seeks to give interns hands-on experience and broad exposure to human rights advocacy and the foreign policy-making process. Location - Washington, D.C. | Summer Internship (late May/early June through August) March 15 Spring Internship (mid-January through May) November 15 Fall Internship (mid-September Through December) July 15. Interns are required to work 32 hours per week during the summer and 24 hours per week during the spring and fall | Undergraduate students only. A minimum of advanced-intermediate Spanish proficiency is required. |
| Wilson Center | This internship is designed to provide the individuals selected with the opportunity for practical experience in an environment that successfully mixes academic study with public policy. - Location: Washington, D.C. | Fall Semester: July 15 Spring Semester: November 15 Summer: March 15 | Various; see individual postings |
| World Bank | Vital source of financial and technical assistance to developing countries around the world. Not a bank in the ordinary sense but a unique partnership to reduce poverty and support development. | Summer Internship (June-September): Application period is December 1- January 31 each year. Winter Internship (December-March): Application period is October 1-31 each year. | To be eligible for the internship, candidates must possess an undergraduate degree and already be enrolled in a full-time graduate study program (pursuing a Master's degree or PhD with plans to return to school in a full-time capacity). Generally, successful candidates have completed their first year of graduate studies or are already into their PhD programs. |
| World Health Organization | Mission to provide global leadership in public health. Employs personnel with a wide variety of expertise such as administration, health, science, etc. | By Semester: Summer: Between Dec. 1 and Jan. 31 of the following year Fall: Between Aug. 1 and Sep. 30 | At least 20 years old, senior standing in university, studying public health or management/social/ medical/administrative field, proficient in language corresponding to the office you are applying to |
- Consulates in Miami. For informational purposes, here is a list of foreign consulates in Miami. Internships may or may not be available.
These are just several examples of nationally competitive internship programs. Please request a personal consultation to discuss these opportunities and many more, specifically tailored to your goals and interests.