Gain experience, learn, and make a difference!
Internship Program
A supervised academic program for university students seeking hands–on experience while completely immersing themselves in Costa Rican culture. Interns work with our community partners in many fields including human rights, public health, gender studies, and social work
Earn academic credit, gain valuable experience, immerse yourself in a new culture, and contribute to positive social change!
Interns have a meaningful impact while gaining valuable experience in a dynamic and diverse community. Our internships provide hands-on learning opportunities and the chance to contribute to initiatives that support migrants and refugees health, well-being, and socio-economic integration.
Why Intern?
Gain experience, immerse yourself in a new culture, and contribute to social justice!
Global Perspective Learn about other cultures, perspectives, and ways of life, to gain a deeper understanding of global issues and challenges. Broaden your worldview and enhance your intercultural competence, empathy, and adaptability.
Professional Development: Interning abroad provides valuable hands-on experience in your field of study or interest and allows you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. It enhances your skills, builds your resume and increases your competitiveness in the job market.
Networking Opportunities Interning abroad allows you to expand your professional network and establish connections with individuals, organizations, and professionals. These connections can lead to future opportunities and collaboration.
Language Immersing yourself in a foreign language offers an excellent opportunity to improve your language skills and fluency. Listening and speaking the language in everyday contexts accelerates your language learning.
Cultural Immersion - Interning abroad offers a unique opportunity to fully immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture, traditions, daily life. You'll live with a family have the chance to explore new cuisines, customs, festivals, and landmarks, gaining a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and building cultural humility.
Personal Growth - Step out of your comfort zone, and adapt to other cultures, lifestyles, and languages. Our internships help build resilience, independence, and confidence,
Global Citizenship - Our internships provide a sense of global citizenship and responsibility by exposing you to pressing global issues such as human displacement, sustainable development, and human rights. It empowers you to advocate for social justice and impact on the world.
Memorable Experience - A once-in-a-lifetime experience that creates lasting memories, friendships, and connections.
What do interns do?
We work with you to match your interests and skills with the needs and objectives of our community partners.
Opportunities available for a broad range of majors and professions.
Small business projects - accompany community organizations to develop small business projects that support families and communities.
Social Work - Facilitate and assist with women’s and youth empowerment workshops and activities.
Community Outreach and Support- Assist in organizing community events, workshops, and support groups for migrants and refugees.
Advocacy and Policy Research -Research migration policies, human rights issues, and legal frameworks affecting migrants and refugees.
Health and well being - work with community health committees and health workers to provide health education workshops to support the health and wellbeing of vulnerable populations.
Education and Empowerment- Develop and deliver educational programs, tutoring, English language support, adult literacy, training sessions, and capacity-building activities for rural communities, migrants and refugees.
Social Integration -Facilitate activities that promote understanding and collaboration between migrants, refugees, and the local community. Create opportunities for dialogue, friendship, and mutual learning
Many other internships are available in other fields. CONTACT US to learn about current opportunities.
A life changing experience...I wouldn't change anything about the experience. - Yaritza, VN Center Intern
Internship Program
Our internship program provides interns with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by migrants and refugees in the northern region of Costa Rica. Through experiential learning, mentorship, and community engagement, interns have the opportunity to:
Gain insights into the socio-economic, cultural, and legal aspects of migration and refugee issues.
Contribute to projects and programs that address the needs of the community.
Collaborate with local organizations, NGOs, and government agencies working in community development and refugee assistance.
Develop skills in advocacy, communication, project management, and cross-cultural collaboration.
Have a positive impact on individuals and communities by supporting integration, empowerment, and access to essential services.
Dental hygienists provide free cleanings and dental health education for refugees and asylum seekers.
How to apply
Our internship program is open to motivated individuals dedicated to making a difference.
Ideal candidates possess independence, cultural sensitivity, and a desire to learn and contribute to meaningful projects.
To apply for an internship, please complete an online application and submit the following:
1. A resume or curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting relevant experience, skills, and qualifications.
2. A letter of recommendation.
All materials may be submitted to: [email protected]
Selected candidates will be contacted for an interview to further discuss their interests and suitability for the program.
Meaningful experiential and cultural learning programs that support social justice
Placement Fees and Services
Placement fees include the following:
• Internship placement services
• Lodging with a homestay including 3 meals a day
• Pre - and post - arrival support
• Airport pick-up and drop off
• Orientation
• Spanish classes
• Monitoring and evaluation throughout the internship. Weekly check-ins with your program coordinator and assistance whenever needed to develop and carry out your project.
• An on-site coordinator for any need that may arise.
• 24 – hour assistance for any reason.
• Readings and other materials that will help you with your project.
• Cultural and recreational activities
• Final evaluations and/or letters of recommendation (needed for credit and useful when applying for employment, research opportunities, or continued education.)
• Re-entry adjustment information.
Items not included in the cost: Airfare, passport and/or visa fees, entry taxes, weekend travel expenses, insurance, and any accrued medical expenses.
Contact us for current placement fees!
Upon acceptance to the program, applicants must submit a $400 non-refundable deposit with their signed program application. Deposits are applied to the total placement fee, which is due one week prior to arrival.
Reconstructing Narratives for peace, conflict resolution, and acceptance
Socio-economic Integration for Immigrants, Refugees, and Asylum Seekers
Internships with Nicaraguan immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers
The Reconstructing Cultural Narratives project seeks to analyze, understand, and deconstruct behaviors, prejudices, and stereotypes that prevent Nicaraguan immigrants from socio-economic integration in Costa Rica. Through this unique project, Costa Ricans, Nicaraguans, and international students and professionals will collaborate in a process of building cultures of peace, acceptance, and integration.
Internships are open available for motivated students and professionals in the following areas:
Business programs – Due to high unemployment and an economic situation worsened by the pandemic, there are few opportunities for formal employment and immigrant economic integration. Many immigrants and refugees have started small and informal businesses and request mentoring and assistance in creating business models, SWAT analysis, digital marketing, and basic accounting.
Health – Health systems in Costa Rica and Nicaragua are very difficult. Nicaraguans do not always have access to healthcare or do not understand how to navigate the Costa Rican system. Workshops, online, and printed materials, made by international students working with Costa Ricans and Nicaraguans can improve health system literacy, access, and health outcomes for migrants. Workshops and cultural competence building for health professionals, students, and faculty at the national and private universities can improve communication between Nicaraguans and health care workers.
Social Work/Social Sciences
Gender based violence
Communication and conflict resolution
Self-care
Substance abuse and healthy alternatives
Bullying – schools and educators
Inclusion, diversity
Understanding, deconstructing, and creating new narratives
"I was inspired by the resilience and determination of the local community, especially the women"
This summer, I grew as an individual and formed long-lasting connections with the community and VN Social Justice