Location:

Managua, Nicaragua

Program Type:

Intern Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Summer

Work Types:

Business, Education, Medical, Social Sciences

Program Overview

Program Description:

Pre-departure coursework: GESI begins at Northwestern’s Chicago campus with a rigorous 7-day Pre-departure Learning Summit where students take 2 courses for credit (equivalent to 6 semester hours). A course in international development theory introduces students to the history and various models of development. A second course equips students to grow as leaders in multicultural environments and prepares them to function as consultants in small teams while working abroad. ?

GESI is a unique credit-bearing internship and study abroad program that combines experiential learning, cultural immersion, rigorous academics, and international work experience at dynamic, community-based NGOs. Students choose from one of 5 sites in Bolivia, India, Nicaragua, South Africa, or Uganda. Each site offers incredible opportunities for students interested in community development, public health, preserving the environment, social entrepreneurship, education, and more. ?

Comprehensive preparation and education; Immersion and experiential learning; Impact-driven partnerships; Group work and a diversity of perspectives; Sustainable asset-based development; Student-centered, multi-tiered support. ?

Setting Description:

Immersion and internship: GESI continues with a seven-week internship at a community-based nonprofit where small teams of 4-5 students work with community members and their host NGO to design and implement a small scale development project. GESI students implement solutions that build upon the strengths of local communities, and their worldviews are transformed as they learn to leverage the strengths—rather than focus on the weaknesses—of the communities in which they live and work. ? Though the region is well known for its volcanic features and beautiful lakes, residents of Ciudad Sandino experience poor infrastructure, low socioeconomic status, and few opportunities to improve their situation. Nicaragua is an exciting location for participants who desire to implement innovative approaches to participatory development in collaboration with local organizations.

Cost:

$7,900. Fee includes tuition for 2 Northwestern courses; Lodging, food, and transport during pre-departure and final summits in Chicago; In-country programming, orientation upon arrival, language instruction, and transportation stipend for travel to and from work; Homestay in-country with 3 meals per day. ?