International Alumni Programs: Michigan State University

The MSU International Alumni Academic Internship program is a collaborative effort of the MSU Alumni Association, Office of International Studies and Programs, Office of Study Abroad, James Madison College, College of Engineering, and College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Michigan State University. Each participating academic unit and department at Michigan State University acts as a partner in implementing, processing, and coordinating this internship program.

Introduction

In 1997-98, MSU Career Services and Placement awarded a $6,000 grant for a proposal submitted by the MSU Alumni Association and MSU Office of International Studies and Programs to involve international alumni clubs in establishing overseas internships for juniors and seniors at Michigan State University. Since then, the participating academic and administrative units at Michigan State University have absorbed expenses for this program. International alumni clubs were the primary resource for establishing internship opportunities. The following are components in the MSU international internship program but additional information may be found at http://www.msualum.com/clubs/international/internships/model.cfm

MSU alumni provide three forms of assistance:

1. provide internship positions which are commensurate with the interests and skills of current students,
2. help interns find low-cost housing or alumni may house a student, and
3. give social and cultural support in adjusting to “a foreign setting.”

Role of Collaborative Units

The MSU Alumni Association is in contact with the MSU international alumni clubs in establishing overseas undergraduate internships. The MSU Alumni Association is the overall liaison for the students and the international alumni clubs. The Office of Study Abroad advises and selects eligible students as well as provides pre-departure orientations and informational materials when appropriate. In this process, the Office of Study Abroad has the assistance of the college internship coordinators. The Office of International Studies and Programs works closely with the MSU Alumni Association and the Office of Study Abroad. All of these units assist each other in resolving questions and issues regarding the international alumni internship program.

Payment of Internships and Evaluation

Payment for internships depends on the type of internship, skill involved, etc. which are contingent on the expectations of the alumni club members, government agencies, and private sector organization.

The most active participants are MSU alumni clubs that have been involved previously. Once internship opportunities are identified, the Office of Study Abroad announces availability at Study Abroad Fairs (held in September and January) and informational sessions held throughout each semester. Then interested MSU students complete and sign an application form, pay the $100 application fee (refundable if not accepted), receive and read an internship information packet, and participate in a selection interview.

Resumes and personal statements from the finalist of the selection process are forwarded to the MSU alumni club leader in the country overseas. If matching internships are found, the MSU students may accept or reject the internship. Further details about the selection and placement processes are provided on the Student Checklist.

Handouts and flyers used to promote this program are provided online.

Alternate Web site - http://www.msualum.com/clubs/international/internships/.

Additional information important for development and implementation of an international internship program are provided online.