Students already abroad or planning to participate in Learning Abroad experiences this spring and summer have suffered significant disappointment and disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are absolutely heartbroken that Spring, Spring Break, and Summer 2020 programs have been canceled due to the global COVID-19 crisis. However, we know that our campus community is resilient, and we are doing everything in our power to help prepare our students for future international programs and opportunities,” said Daniel Watson, Marketing & Technology Coordinator for Learning Abroad.
To offer an international experience while adhering to social distancing requirements, the Office of Learning Abroad has been working closely with affiliate providers to offer summer virtual internship and study abroad options to U students. Students can fulfill the University of Utah IR requirement, gain professional skills, and add a global experience to their resume–all from the comfort and safety of their homes.
While recognizing nothing can truly replace an in-person program, these internships are a great opportunity for a student to build their resume, network abroad for future international experiences, and demonstrate a commitment to their professional development. “I think it really says something about a person’s character that they sought out an internship experience even during a time of quarantine,” said Watson.
The internship catalog spans several disciplines, including communication, marketing, business, visual arts, software development, and non-profit management. Participants can earn 3-6 credits over 4-8 weeks.
Through one of Learning Abroad’s longtime providers, CAPA, students can choose from a host of virtual study abroad programs through a virtual platform CAPA has been using since 2015 to connect students in their various centers in ‘global cities’ around the world. 4-6 week courses in criminal justice, global health, and psychology are available and taught from locations around the world. All courses are adapted to a remote-teaching environment and include virtual My Global City events that will connect students with their global city through tours of museums and online performances.
Students who received Summer 2020 OGE Scholarship awards can apply their funding toward virtual internships and study abroad courses.
Learn more about virtual internship offerings and email Learningabroad@utah.edu to schedule an appointment with a Learning Abroad Coordinator. Application deadlines vary by program.
If you have questions about how Learning Abroad has been affected by COVID-19, visit the Learning Abroad FAQ.