Internships

 

Colleagues International is proud of the learning opportunities it offers international professionals as well as local students. Students may choose to receive internship credit or simply volunteer for a unique international and business experience, knowledge that will undoubtedly make them stand out above the crowd.

Interns are an important part of the CI staff, carrying out duties most essential to the success of the organization. This internship allows students to receive administrative experience, practice communication with local businesses and national agencies, and learn from observing local and international business practices.

Intern positions available are listed below (although internships can be designed to fit each student’s needs and objectives).

International Studies Intern — Assist with international professional development programs and participants.

Public Relations Intern — Increase community awareness, work with media, organize special events, and improve the organization’s communication practices with supporters, alumni, and local businesses.

Finance Intern — Work with the Finance Executive Board Member to manage the organization’s financial activities and records.

In addition to contributing to the organization, students receive a great deal of knowledge and skills from their work at Colleagues International.

William, a WMU international studies student, was impressed with the connections he made while interning at CI. "I am amazed at the friends and professional contacts I have made from all over the world like China, Great Britain, Germany, and Jamaica."

"Though this internship, I have had the opportunity to network with all types of professionals in the area as well, which will become quite beneficial when starting my career."

"As a Colleagues International staff member, I have established professional relationships with everyone from business leaders and magazine editors to city & law officials."

Stephanie, a WMU public relations student, also felt she gained professional skills she can apply in the real world.

"Effective communication is key to a career in the public relations field. My regular contact with local businesses and international professionals allowed me to continuously practice professional business conduct and communication skills. I was able to apply what I learned in my courses to real world experience."

Lori, a WMU communication alum, found that she had learned more from her internship than she had anticipated:

" I believe that interning at Colleagues International helped me land another internship and now an administrative secretary position. Also, the diversity of the people I met while at Colleagues has helped me interact more efficiently with the diverse population I associate with on a day to day basis. I am so thankful for the opportunity."

To apply for an internship at Colleagues International, email your resume or questions to Cynthia Hernandez.