Who is eligible to apply?
Enrolled graduate students at the University of Michigan are eligible to apply, including those who will be graduating in April.
What qualifications are you looking for?
We look for students with a commitment to the Davidson Institute mission, excellent academic and professional record, cultural sensitivity, strong initiative and ability to work with managers and employees in a different cultural and business environment, ability to build relationships, and thrive in an unstructured environment.
Previous international development or business experience and knowledge of a foreign language are desirable, but not required. However, some of our partner organizations do require language proficiency for the area of their project.
How do I apply?
For the Student-Initiated Internship: Complete the application package which includes an online application form, an up-to-date resume, a 1 to 2-page statement of interest, a letter of commitment from the host organization, and a budget.
For the WDI Initiative-Driven Internship: Submit an application package which includes an online application form, an up-to-date resume, and a 1 to 2-page statement of interest.
Where are the internship projects located?
Most of them are overseas. Occasionally we have a few in the US, usually working at our partner organization’s US headquarters. The actual locations vary from year-to-year.
How long is the internship?
The internships will be a minimum of 10 weeks long, preferably 12 weeks. They usually start mid-May and end mid-August. Depending on the organization, some may require a 3-day up to 2-week orientation and work period in its US office before going to the overseas location.
How much will I get paid?
Students will receive a stipend of up to $10,000 for the 10-12 week internship.
How will I receive my stipend?
Students will receive half in May before leaving for the internship and the other half in August after the completion of their internships.
How do I find local housing?
Students are responsible for contacting their host organization and making arrangements with or through the organization in finding local housing.
Is there a travel allowance?
WDI will reimburse travel expenses to/from the location of the internship, up to $1500 (airfare only). Receipts are needed to receive the reimbursement. WDI will not reimburse meal expenses, hotels, car rentals, etc.
How about travel insurance and health insurance?
Students are responsible for obtaining their own proper travel and medical insurance. WDI or the host organization does not provide this.
How will I know if my proposal is accepted or not?
We will notify all students who submitted an application of its outcome.
As an intern, what is my relationship to WDI?
WDI is offering fellowships to provide University of Michigan graduate students with learning opportunities and experiences in international business. Student interns will neither be employees of WDI nor of the partner institutions. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner in the field and to conform to local business hours and rules. The most successful projects result in benefits to both the student and the “clients”.