American Studies internship

Elective Course

The internship course provides top American Studies students with an opportunity to gain valuable working experience in an American business or non-governmental organization, and to learn about business practices and technologies. During the semester prior to the internship (internship duration must be at least three weeks full time or comprise a minimum of 120 hours part-time), students will pursue individualized research related to the industry of their hosting organization under the supervision of a mentor, typically (though not necessarily) an American Studies Programme instructor or board member. Through readings students will study theoretical frameworks from American Studies disciplines that are suited to analyzing the industry in question. Students will present their preparatory research in a short essay, which includes their expectations for the internship. During the internship, students will write a journal in which they reflect critically on their day-to-day experiences. To conclude, students write a second essay after the internship in which they summarize their experiences and compare them to their expectations as stated in the first essay. The host institution’s evaluation of the intern’s performance will be included in the assessment. The final essay shall be submitted no later than two weeks following the completion of the internship. Please note: Although we will do our best to assist you in your search, students are responsible for obtaining the internship position and must present the internship offer by the last day of the add/drop period to the programme director of American Studies. All students who fail to fulfill this requirement will automatically be dropped from the course.