Who is eligible to apply?
Currently enrolled University of Michigan graduate students, who will be returning for the next academic year.
Occasionally, a position may still be open after all eligible applicants have been considered. In this situation, as a service to our research partners, WDI may facilitate interviews and a connection between an April graduate with the organization. However, this candidate will not be eligible for WDI funding.
December graduates (or earlier) are not eligible to take part in this program.
What qualifications are you looking for?
We look for students with a commitment to the Davidson Institute mission, excellent academic and professional record, ability and willingness to be flexible and open to new experiences, 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 2 to 3-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, typically at our partner organization’s US headquarters. The actual locations vary from year-to-year.
Are there any restrictions on project location or country?
Student safety is of primary importance. WDI follows the Ross School of Business' policy re. student international travel. WDI does NOT support internship projects in countries that are on the US Dept. of State Travel Warning List:
How long is the internship?
The internships are typically 12-weeks long. Occasionally we allow it to be at the minimum of 11-weeks. The projects 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 fellowship of up to $10,000 for the 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 (in-country) housing?
Students are responsible for contacting their host organization and making arrangements with or through the organization in finding local housing.
I plan on keeping my Ann Arbor apartment during my internship abroad, can I include this in my budget proposal for a student-initiated internship application?
Costs related to housing maintained in Ann Arbor will not be considered for funding.
Is there a travel allowance?
WDI will reimburse direct round trip air travel expenses from DTW to the location of the internship, up to $1500 (airfare only). Receipts and original boarding passes need to be submitted to receive the reimbursement. WDI will not reimburse meal expenses, hotels, car rentals, mileage (if driving own car), etc.
If you are not flying from/to DTW, you must contact us in advance. We do not automatically approve other destinations.
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.
Students awarded WDI funding are strongly recommended to have medical coverage while abroad. University Health Services offers a comprehensive plan at the rate of $1/day. For more information, please visit:
http://www.uhs.umich.edu/tai/
Students choosing another provider/plan must submit documentation with their application showing that the coverage meets or exceeds the coverage provided by the UHS plan.
How will I know if my proposal is accepted or not?
Although we strive to notify students who submitted applications, due to the large number of applicants this year, we will not be able to notify each of you. If you have not heard from us or our partner organization, you may send an email to WDI-Internships@umich.edu.
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”.