International Internship Program
After their second year of study, small groups of students travel together to a country where the culture differs significantly from their own to experience the world from an alternative perspective. For a period of ten weeks, they engage in volunteer work with local communities. Their work is related to education, health, environment, human rights, and/or community development. The intent is for students to learn from the host culture rather than impart Western-based standards and values. In the academic component of the internship, students refine their understanding of self, others, and the world and they reflect on the concepts of leadership and citizenship across cultures. It is hoped that they will experience a profound shift of consciousness that will open up new possibilities and alternatives to make the world a better place.
Rigorous preparation including cross cultural communication, language and logistical preparation as well as group dynamics enhances their experience. Upon return, they take part in post-internship debriefing sessions to reenter life in Canada.
The international internship placements are carefully selected by Renaissance College for the quality of the educational experience and safety. RC also allows students to submit proposals for independent placements.
From 2002 to 2013, 210 students traveled to 28 different countries around the world.
- Asia: Bhutan, Thailand, India, Japan, Sri Lanka and Vietnam
- Africa: Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Ghana, Malawi, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, and Tanzania
- Americas: Belize, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala and Mexico
- Europe: Germany, Italy, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Slovenia
- Middle East: Egypt
- Oceania: New Zealand
