Service

 

Service Learning/Volunteering

Service learning/volunteer abroad opportunities usually consists of an unpaid experiential (hands-on) learning experience in which one is immersed into a culture’s work setting, but in a capacity of serving by assisting with certain project or organization. Typically, such opportunities are unpaid but might provide for living accommodations in exchange for hours worked.

There are a number of organizations throughout the United States that facilitate such volunteer abroad opportunities abroad. The benefit of utilizing such program providers is that they can facilitate an easy transition to the host culture by providing pre-departure training and/or information, arranging your accommodations and placement, and other helpful benefits.

The following listed programs offer fieldwork or work experience abroad; the sponsor typically offers neither credit nor wage (Peace Corps supplies funds). Instead, such programs offer the opportunity to gain exposure to an area of interest to the student and broaden the educational experience.

  • Cross-Cultural Solutions
  • - operates international Intern Abroad programs in 10 countries (Brazil, China, Costa Rica, Ghana, Guatemala, India, Peru, Russia, Tanzania and Thailand) with start dates year-round, and lengths-of-stay from 2-12 weeks. Focus on health, education or social services for invaluable international work experience. CCS in-country staff will welcome you to the CCS Home-Base and ensure that all of your needs are met – from safety and lodging to perspectives and insight about the local culture.
  • CDS International (CDS)
  • - A non-profit organization committed to the advancement of international practical training opportunities. CDS serves over 50 countries around the world and almost 1500 individuals annually.
  • Peace Corps
  • - Join an American legacy of students by living and working in a developing country. The Peace Corps gives students the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of many while also gaining several benefits. Visit with Dr. Nelson Jacob in the TAMU Career Center (209 Koldus Bldg., 458-3699) to talk about these opportunities.
  • Association of International Development and Exchange:  Offers teaching, working and volunteering abroad programs in Chile, Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, Costa Rica, China, England, Spain, and Australia.
  • American Friends Service Committee
  • - Sponsors short term, volunteer, community projects in Mexico and Cuba. Volunteers pay a participation fee and cover their own travel and personal expenses.
  • Operation Crossroads Africa:
  • Offers opportunities for students to participate as volunteers or group leaders in six- to seven-week summer work/travel/study programs in a number of African countries.
  • Cultural Embrace: Offers individuals and groups to volunteer, teach, intern, work, take cultural classes and travel abroad to Africa, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Europe, and Latin America. Our full-service pre-arranges placements, room and board, pre-departure and local support, visa, academic credit and arrival assistance. Projects range from 1-52 weeks and tailored to fit your schedule, budget, interests, and goals.
  • World Endeavors:  Offers volunteer, intern, and study abroad programs in on nearly every continent.  World Endeavors attempts to find internships and volunteer opportunities that fit each student's interests.
  • Commission International:  A religious organization that sponsors projects in Córdoba, Argentina.  Provides intensive Spanish tutoring, housing arrangements, and activities with local students from the university.

Other search engines such as the ones listed below provide a resource to locate additional opportunities:




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