Is This Program Right for You?

This program is designed for students seeking a unique summer internship program worth three credits.  Students participate in full-time internships for six weeks with organizations connected to the European Union. Most internships are conducted in English. Some internships in French are available.  This program is open to students from all majors.  

Academics

Brussels is the home to several multilateral political institutions, most notably the European Union and NATO. These organizations, along with the collection of international businesses, cultural institutions, and news media agencies make internship possibilities in Brussels very attractive to students from many disciplines. 

This is a three-credit program consisting of an internship and a seminar class open to undergraduate students. The first week you will have an orientation, internship interviews, and introductory sessions. Beginning the second week you will intern Monday through Thursday during normal working hours. You will attend a seminar taught by the Resident Director, Dr. Jerome Sheridan, one evening each week. The curriculum for this program focuses on the European Union, particularly the process of government cooperation and the challenges such an undertaking entails. Here is an example of the Belgium Summer Internship Syllabus

Previous internships have included:

• Boeing

• Federal Express

• Greenpeace

• Supreme Headquarters of the Allied Powers of Europe

• European Public Policy Advisors

• Environmental Development Resource Center

Student Life

Homestays

In Brussels, you will be placed in a homestay with a Belgian family.  Your homestay will provide breakfasts for seven days and dinners for four days each week. The homestay offers you a stronger connection with the Belgian culture, while still allowing you to explore Brussels on your own terms.  The homestay placements are organized by the Brussels Center homestay coordinator based on student preferences.  Distances  and commute times from your homestay to your internship site will vary greatly between students.

Field Trips

This program staff organizes one weekend excursion within Belgium during the program, in addition to cultural and networking opportunities within Brussels.  As the internship takes place from Monday to Thursday, Fridays and weekends are free for exploring Brussels or personal travel.