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: