Preparing for an International Career: Pathways for People with Disabilities

By Michele Scheib

Mobility International USA National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange PO Box 10767 Eugene, Oregon 97440 USA Tel/TTY: 541-343-1284 Fax: 541-343-6812 [email protected] www.miusa.org

Preparing for an International Career: Pathways for People with Disabilities is a publication of the National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange (NCDE). NCDE is sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the United States Department of State.

Thank you to the Mobility International USA staff (Amanda Hickok, Karina Lasso, Jana Maiuri, Cindy Lewis, Cerise Roth-Vinson and Susan Sygall), Pamela Houston formerly of NCDE, David Levin at the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the United States Department of State, and Brett Campbell for content suggestions and editing assistance. This booklet would not have been possible without the many people with disabilities who were willing to be interviewed. By openly sharing their experiences, it is our goal that others with disabilities will pursue the possibilities for an international career. Also thanks to Chris Berner at Funk/Levis & Associates, who provided the layout design.

1 Preparing for an International Career: Pathways for People with Disabilities is subject to change without notice. To the best of its ability, Mobility International USA (MIUSA)/National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange (NCDE) verified the accuracy of the information prior to publication. Although efforts have been made to assure accuracy, MIUSA/NCDE does not guarantee the accuracy of this publication. MIUSA/NCDE cannot be held liable for inaccuracy, misinterpretation or complaints arising from this book. Any listing of an organization, company, service or resource should not be construed as an endorsement.

Please contact MIUSA/NCDE with suggestions or corrections.

Reprinting of materials is prohibited without express written permission from MIUSA/NCDE.

Copyright  2005 Mobility International USA/ National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange ISBN: 1-880034-95-6 All Rights Reserved

2 Table of Contents

Introduction ...... 4

International Careers Types of Career Options ...... 7 Benefits and Motivations ...... 16 Future Job Prospects ...... 18 Qualifications and Preparations ...... 20

Stepping Stones International Activities in High School ...... 30 International Degree Programs in College ...... 37 International Fellowship Programs in College ...... 44 Tips for Entering Your Career ...... 63 Mid-Career Transitions ...... 67

Support Along the Journey Others with Disabilities Paving the Way ...... 74 Mobility International USA and the National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange ...... 76

3 Introduction

t age 19 Andrea Shettle, who This booklet intends to direct young is Deaf and also has attention adults with international interests Adeficit disorder, read a World in the right direction from the start. Federation of the Deaf report about Many pathways exist for fulfilling the widespread lack of access to international career aspirations, and education and employment for Deaf this publication will help in exploring people in other countries. Almost some of the possibilities. It highlights fifteen years later, this realization different types of international would eventually lead Andrea to a occupations, tips to prepare for an position at the World Bank. international career, insights from role models and emerging leaders with When asked, “What do you want disabilities in these fields, and the to do with your future?” few international exchange and fellowship young adults who are Deaf or programs they participated in to get have disabilities think to say, “An them where they are today. international career.” Yet there is a whole world of opportunities open in Thank you to the Bureau of the international affairs, exchange Educational and Cultural Affairs of the and development fields. This can United States Department of State for include working in U.S. embassies sponsoring the National Clearinghouse overseas or the U.S. Department of on Disability and Exchange (NCDE), State in Washington, DC. It can mean administered by Mobility International working in an international consulting USA (MIUSA), and this booklet. firm, college or university study abroad office or international refugee organization in the United States or abroad.

For Andrea, her career took a roundabout path. “My problem was that I had no clue how on earth I could get involved,” she says of her college years. “I had zero contacts in the international community at that point. I had never heard that there was a field called ‘international development’ that so perfectly captured the kind of work I wanted to do, even though I had not yet narrowed down my interests to a more specific sphere of tasks.”

4 International Careers

5 6 International Careers: Types of Career Options

“I’m wide open about what I want to do. I could volunteer in Africa with kids, work at an embassy or mentor kids with disabilities in the United States about international issues. I either want to work internationally or in Washington, DC. I want to explore it. I have a lot to offer.” Alison LePage, learning disability, student in Political Science at Western Michigan State University

areers in the international interviewing and finding a mentor field offer a chance to work in as well as separate chapters on Ca variety of settings and with what to expect when working with a diversity of people. Some of the the U.S. government, international questions to consider include: development, nonprofit, and educational organizations, or Do I want to relocate overseas and in banking, business, lobbying, work directly with people in those consulting, media and research. communities?

Do I want to work in the United PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES States administering international WORKING IN THE INTERNATIONAL programs? FIELD

Am I interested in working with: The following are stories about people with disabilities of all backgrounds and ■ The federal government or ages who hold positions in the fields public entity of international affairs, exchange and ■ A non-profit agency development. ■ Private business or consulting firm ■ International organization, or Other internationally oriented ■ Educational institution? professions in which people with disabilities are working, but not For a detailed resource on various specifically discussed in this booklet, career options in the international include those such as international field, consult Careers in International business, trade, finance, health, Affairs, Seventh Edition, edited journalism and law. by Maria Pinto Carland and Lisa Gihring at the School for Foreign Service, Georgetown University Press, Washington, DC (2003). It includes tips on job searching,

7 INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE Professionals in this field provide recruiting and administrative support for programs that send people abroad or bring them from other countries to the United States to study, intern, volunteer, teach, conduct research, or do short-term professional work. It is part of the international education field, which seeks to promote more global awareness and intercultural communication skills among the high school, college or general populations.

MICHELE SHORESMAN designated parking space in front of Position: Assistant Dean for the building and providing an office Graduate and Joint Degree Programs on the first floor. “He made my life [at at Washington University School of work] easy because he values what I Law, Missouri do, and I really enjoy this new job.”

■ Works with international students Travel Opportunities in the law school and supports law Michele traveled to Germany for three students studying abroad. weeks on a Fulbright International ■ Travels to European recruitment Education Administrators seminar fairs or recruits international to visit college and university students online. campuses; meet with government ■ Formerly advised students in the officials involved with education; and University’s study abroad office experience Germany’s culture. and on Fulbright programs. “No one should count himself or herself out. Be willing to allow others “It’s a great field for people with to help and you will get the most out disabilities [that affect mobility] since of your experience.” all day I’m sitting and counseling students, working on a computer, talking to prospective students, writing and reading. It’s the nature of the job. You’re also out there with students from all over the world and they teach you about their cultures.”

Disability: Multiple sclerosis “Five years ago with the onset of MS, I changed my job, changed my car, and changed my house to make adaptations.” The dean at her new position has been supportive of Shoresman by arranging a 8 ELISE READ Disability: Type I diabetes Position: Former Regional Assistant When in college, Elise studied abroad Director, Arcadia University Center for in China on a National Security Education Abroad, Colorado Education Program fellowship.

■ Represented the Center’s seventy “I encourage anyone considering education abroad programs in ten studying or living abroad to not let a different countries. disability or chronic condition stand in ■ Built relationships with U.S. study the way. With adequate preparation abroad advisors about the and support from doctors, family, Center’s programs. friends, and advisors, studying ■ Communicated with the Center’s abroad and working in this field can overseas directors about enrolled indeed become a reality and bring as students’ questions. many positive changes to your life as they have to mine.” “For a few years, I traveled across the Rocky Mountain region as a Travel Opportunities program representative, advising Elise spent at least 100 days per college students of the many year on the road in the United States, benefits of studying abroad. At the attending study abroad fairs at same time, I encouraged students universities, conferences, orientation with disabilities and chronic health sessions or meetings with students, conditions to consider their options study abroad advisors and faculty for overseas study by volunteering to members. Traveling was light in talk with them through such avenues the summer, which allowed time to as the National Clearinghouse on develop special projects. Twice a year Disability and Exchange’s Peer-to- she traveled to Arcadia University in Peer Network.” Pennsylvania to meet with the rest of the staff.

“It was great to be able to work independently from home, and plan your own schedule. They really treated us well and trusted us. I traveled more than required, but had flexibility during less busy times.”

9 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS Professionals in this field are involved primarily in public service to forge international relations through diplomacy and foreign affairs, information sharing, and global cooperation on world issues. They support efforts to create international alliances on issues that affect all countries, such as air pollution or human rights, and to create mutually beneficial agreements between countries such as for trade or immigration purposes.

CAROL DOEZAL York. Eventually, I applied both for Position: Office Management the Foreign Service and for jobs Specialist, Bureau of Human at other government agencies. I Resources, the U.S. Department of was hired by the United States State, Washington, DC Information Agency (USIA), which was the international educational, cultural A wide variety of postions exist for and informational side of the federal someone in the international affairs government, and has now been field. integrated into the U.S. Department of State. I worked for USIA for about “In my first job, I worked for a two years. The Foreign Service finally big sugar company in England. called and offered me a job. I was They needed somebody who was anxious to get back overseas and so bilingual in English and French. The that’s what I did back in 1985. government of Cameroon contracted with the company to do a feasibility study to determine if we could grow sugar cane up in the arid northern part of the country. I was hired by this company to go to Cameroon, set up an office and assist the engineers to get established.”

“The first time I was hired for a job here in the United States I was actually overseas working at the American International Commerce Center in Milan, Italy. I was speaking with the CEO of one of the companies that had come to exhibit their products, and he offered me a job as an executive assistant in New

10 “You need to be knowledgeable in Disability: Vision disability certain fields in order to do some “I’ve lost about 95% of my sight and foreign service jobs. Although some yet I don’t fit in any category. I don’t of it may be routine such as office fit in the world of the blind, and I management type of work. In my last don’t fit in the world of the sighted.” job I worked in the protocol office for As her eyesight has changed over three years. It was really important her twenty-year career in the Foreign that you had an international Service, so has access. For example, background and experience overseas the United States Department of to know how to understand certain State has updated its computer cultural issues. software, which makes it easier to access the computers than “I am an office management previously. specialist in my current position with the Foreign Service grievance board Travel Opportunities of the U.S. Department of State. This “I grew up in the diplomatic service. is not a conventional office in that My dad was in the Foreign Service, sense. We are like an appeals office and I really enjoyed the travel part of where people come who’ve been it. When I reached high school level, suspended or put on leave without we were evacuated out of Africa to the pay for misconduct or have received United States because a war broke an evaluation that they think is unfair. out. My first introduction to American We review the appeal and make education was in my freshman year decisions on it.” in high school. I did my junior college year abroad in Rome.

“What I’ve enjoyed have been interesting places like Africa, because you get such a diverse mix of people there. I meet [people from] so many different cultures – Dutch people, French people, Belgians – that’s what I’ve enjoyed the most. Also getting to know the local culture, the local areas, the markets and the travel. Sometimes it’s been wonderful, sometimes it’s been difficult depending on what country I’ve been in, but overall all I think there’s always a positive aspect to everything, no matter where you go. You meet the most incredible, interesting people.” 11 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS seminars the scholars participated in while they were in Washington, CHRIS EMANUEL DC, we built in time for sightseeing Position: Program Analyst, Climate around the city. In doing so, they Change Division, U.S. Environmental became aware of certain barriers, Protection Agency, Washington, DC like stairs, and the certain ways a person in a wheelchair has to “[For] my first job, I worked with maneuver. A lot of times people the Fulbright program as a Senior would be talking to me and they’d Program Associate. I worked with forget I am in a wheelchair, so when the visiting scholars and the scholar we come to a flight of stairs, they say enrichment program. We brought ‘Come on!’ and then ‘Oh, I forgot.’ professors from all over the world to the United States and placed “The positive challenge is to educate them in different U.S. colleges and and make people aware. Just by universities. We were responsible for your presence, people are watching them and their families – everything you. Sometimes when you go abroad they needed while they were there are the physical barriers, and on assignment, usually for one places aren’t as accessible as in the academic year. We got to know them United States. But that is a learning pretty well. Every spring we had a experience as well. I have challenges, huge conference where we would but you have to have confidence in invite these visiting scholars to yourself and your purpose, and then Washington, DC – that was exciting when people see you and see your because then I could put faces to the resolve, that’s when the education names. begins. That’s when they really start to see you for you.” “Currently, I work with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Travel Opportunities working on methane issues. We meet “My major was International with a lot of global organizations to Relations at the University of see if we can help to stem the tide of Southern California. My family is global warming or climate change.” originally from Panama and Jamaica, so I have been interested in international topics since birth. My Disability: Wheelchair user stepfather was in the Marine Corps “In my first job, most of the year I so we traveled a lot. spoke on the phone and the Fulbright scholars were not even aware that I “In my current position I travel often was in a wheelchair. So by the time to China and India, meeting with they saw that I was in a wheelchair, global organizations.” they were surprised, but we already knew each other. In addition to the

12 INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT Professionals in this field work to improve the lives of people worldwide, working in areas such as agriculture, education, health, human rights, poverty reduction, transportation and refugee issues. International development professionals provide technical and resource assistance for countries to develop their communities, or relief aid to people in times of crisis or war.

ALISON HILLMAN Disability: Bi-polar disorder Position: Director of Mental “I wasn’t diagnosed nor did I have Disability Rights International’s symptoms until I was 26 or 27. Only Americas Advocacy Initiative, after this road to recovery, graduating Washington, DC from law school and learning about Mental Disability Rights International, Alison works for international did I decide to incorporate all of recognition and enforcement of the these passions for international rights of people with psychiatric human rights work, disability and disabilities. working in Latin America.

“The positive aspects of my work with “My current boss is my mentor. Mental Disability Rights International There have been many less formal are being able to travel, use my mentors along the way. Specifically, Spanish, and being able to see women with psychiatric disabilities changes that are taking place in have been tremendously inspiring other countries. It is really exciting to and empowering for me – really see things that are going on in other powerful women who didn’t let parts of the world. Colleagues are psychiatric disabilities get in the way. so far away that sometimes keeping If fact, they draw strength from their up on what’s going on in a country, experiences.” cultural differences and coordinating a team from all different types of backgrounds can be a challenge.

“I went to college at Cornell, and earned a degree in Government with a concentration in U.S.-Latin American Relations. Upon graduation I wanted to go to Latin America and see for myself what the long-term impacts of U.S. policies were. So that was my first experience and that led me to want to do international work.”

13 Travel Opportunities INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT “During the summer between the first and second years of law school, JYOTI VIDHANI I designed a research project in the Position: Material Resources Officer Peten, an area in Guatemala. It was at Catholic Relief Services (CRS), a a study on the effects of petroleum U.S. based international development exploitation in the Mayan reserve and relief agency, Gujarat, India. on the indigenous populations and the environment. At American “I prepare reports, monitor and University International Human Rights evaluate the food aid programs run Law Clinic, we had a case where I by our partners, and present an went to Panama for a week and did accurate picture of the CRS activities investigation and client-centered undertaken in my region to the main assistance.” head office located at New Delhi.

In her current position, Alison has “They mostly run food aid programs traveled to countries such as Peru and also some projects on HIV/AIDS, to investigate abuses in psychiatric women empowerment and peace hospitals, address human rights and building that target people directly disability legislation, and organize from lower economic classes and workshops and support groups for minority communities, mostly residing psychiatric survivors. in remote rural areas. Working with them certainly has enhanced my knowledge and skills as to how similar strategies can be applied to create better living conditions for disabled people.

“Working with CRS, I am getting an opportunity to work with more organized and experienced staff, who have well-defined models and mechanisms laid down to work at the grassroots level. I am becoming more knowledgeable, more aware of the grave situations of the poor and needy people in the nearby rural areas.”

14 Disability: Physical disability Travel Opportunities “For those who are disabled and “I traveled to the United States to are seeking to get experience and participate in Mobility International international exposure, my advice USA’s (MIUSA) International is to move ahead and accept an Women’s Institute on Leadership and entry level job with a development Disability. Moreover, MIUSA sends agency. It could be a turning point me information on international in your life. The benefit you gain internships, fellowships, funding from this experience is two fold – it agencies, upcoming events and is enhancing both personally and seminars, which keeps me updated professionally. You become more with what is going on around aware of your strengths and qualities the world in the international that in turn help you in dealing with development field.” your status as a disabled person in more positive ways. People also start realizing your value, your potential as a human being. On the career front, you become more creative, more dynamic in your approach to various parameters that lead to success.

“One day my boss asked me to conduct an interview for appointing the program associates, who are people at a higher level than mine. I became apprehensive about what I would ask them, given this situation. I had never done this before, so I was lacking confidence. But he encouraged me with his wonderful tips and guess what? It worked out well and I ended up helping the selection committee select the most eligible and worthy candidates for our organization.”

15

International Careers: Benefits and Motivations

“By far, being exposed to various cultures and seeing how genuine people are from all around the world -- that’s the beautiful thing about international work.”

Chris Emanuel, wheelchair user, works on international projects at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

any people go into the fields “[An internship] in Costa Rica of international affairs, increased my desire to enter the Mdevelopment or exchange international development field to to make a difference in the world or a fevered pitch. Partly this was explore other cultural perspectives. because I realized how much I loved Most have had previous international this work. Anything and everything experiences that made an impact else would have seemed ‘second on their own life choices. Since best’ in comparison. I realized that entry positions in these fields are finding a job in the international generally in the low to middle salary development field would both let range, most people entering the me follow my passion and help me international arena are attracted manage my ADD because I was doing to this field of work by motivations what I loved.” other than money. International Andrea Shettle, Deaf and attention travel will entice some people to deficit disorder, Research Assistant at international careers, although the World Bank. travel opportunities will vary with positions. Some positions involve “I think the highlight for me is all the administrative, research or policy people that I’ve met; I know I could level work, while others entail direct go back to these countries and these assistance, marketing or advising. As people are like brothers and sisters. they gain experience, professionals I’ve traveled in Zimbabwe, and I have in international fields can advance a network of friends there, not only to senior level positions and on a personal level but professionally. responsibilities, with higher salary It gave me insight on what some of levels. the issues are that they are dealing with. We tend to put everything For some people it is a chance into perspective of our culture, and to fulfill personal aspirations, or when you start looking through their the lessons from and connections eyes, you see a whole other kind of with people in other countries that dynamic.” motivate and benefit them. Don Galloway, blind, former Peace

16 Corps country director in Jamaica. The majority of people of color and people with disabilities worldwide live in developing countries. People with disabilities and from different ethnic backgrounds need to bring their perspective and voice to international development organizations and U.S. government offices overseas, so this segment of the population is included and empowered to contribute to the dialogue.

“Poverty is so great and the resources are so absent in many other countries. And it’s a shame that we can’t share more….We could have a much better world if we worked to help everyone make their full contributions to it. That’s what motivates me.” Deidre Davis, wheelchair user, former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Equal Opportunity and Civil Rights for the United States Department of State.

“I showed Costa Rican deaf students a photograph of a large group of deaf adults, and explained, ‘He’s deaf, they’re all deaf, all of these people are deaf!’ until they finally got it. They were thunderstruck by seeing the faces of so many deaf adults all at once. This moment really brought home for me the importance of bringing deaf adult role models to deaf children in developing countries –it’s not just so they can see deaf adults being successful but, more fundamentally, so they really understand that deaf adults do exist.” Andrea Shettle, Deaf and attention deficit disorder, Research Assistant at the World Bank.

17 International Careers: Future Job Prospects

“As the Advisor on Disability and Development at the World Bank, we are seeking to recruit interns, consultants and staff with disabilities. International experience is critical to working in the international development arena.” Judith Heumann, wheelchair user, Advisor at the World Bank.

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS Foreign Service looks like America he Association of Professional as it goes about representing Schools in International Affairs America,” notes Ambassador Ruth Treported that 88 percent of Davis in a Georgetown University 2002 graduates in international School of Foreign Service report affairs found work within six months (2003). Federal government entry after graduation, a competitive level positions for undergraduates placement rate in comparison to range from $28,000 to $36,000 professional degrees in law or salary levels, with extensive benefits business. The largest percent of packages. Salary can double in five graduates (42 percent) found work to ten years with promotions. in the public sector with about a quarter each working in the nonprofit “A lot more people with disabilities and private sectors. Even in difficult and people of color need to get economic climates, international involved in foreign affairs.” affairs graduates can find exciting Deidre Davis, wheelchair user, former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Equal careers because of the strength and Opportunity and Civil Rights for the United versatility of this type of degree. States Department of State.

For those looking for employment in the public sector, many opportunities exist. The U.S. Department of State’s Workforce Recruitment Program for College Students with Disabilities (www.careers.state.gov/state) attracts and refers talented students with disabilities to federal and private sector organizations for temporary and permanent employment. “Because the Foreign Service represents the incredible, wonderful diversity of the United States and all of its people, we are doing everything we can to ensure that the 18 INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE New job opportunities are also For people interested in working opening in the non-profit sector. specifically with international Government support to international exchange programs, the numbers of development organizations are college students studying abroad has expected to increase by $5 billion by more than doubled (126 percent) in 2006, adding to existing public funds the past decade (Open Doors Survey: and additional billions from private Institute of International Education, donors. Many important international 2003). In addition, a Congressional development agencies, such as Mercy commission is looking at the Corps and American Friends Service potential for increasing the numbers Committee, seek out people with of students studying, interning or skills and expertise to ensure that volunteering abroad for academic their organizations meet the needs of credit from 160,000 to 500,000 all people. students. The U.S. President also proposed doubling the number of “After working in the international Peace Corps volunteers by 2007. All field, I have realized that the world of this means more need for staff for and of people with disabilities is to coordinate placements of these changing at a rapid pace. Increasing exchange participants. consciousness of civil rights and emergence of people with disabilities “I think the biggest success is in displaying skills and knowledge how far we’ve actually come in to improve their own lives are some terms of promoting international of the factors that are contributing education for everyone – for any to the new thinking that a disabled type of underrepresented population person deserves a dignified status – including people with disabilities. in society on the same terms as a The outreach has been tremendous. I non-disabled person. As a result of think many universities are on board this, more people from the NGO (non- – not because they have to be, but profit) sector and from the corporate because they want to be. So in that world have shown willingness sense, I think there have been a lot to [hire people with disabilities]. of successes.” Therefore, I believe that someone Peter Kerrigan, vice president who is intelligent and creative with of membership at the Forum on Education Abroad (A World Awaits You, MIUSA 2002). innovative ideas and passion to change the world for the better will not be left out just on the grounds of his or her disability. The world will accept them – no doubt about that!” Jyoti Vidhani, physical disability, Material Resources Officer, Catholic Relief Services, India. 19 International Careers: Qualifications and Preparations

“I’m so much farther ahead of other students who are my age, have a 4.0 grade point average, but do not have the experience I’ve had through internships, study abroad, student activities and volunteering in the community.” Alison LePage, learning disability, student in Political Science at Western Michigan State University.

lison has participated in a Asia -- if you want to both have the summer abroad program in qualifications and find out if this type AEurope, the Washington Center of work fits and motivates you, then internships and academic seminars an overseas program should be in in Washington, DC, NCDE’s Exchange your plans. Research1 shows that an Pioneer internship with Colleagues international exchange experience International in Michigan, and has also has other benefits that affect also started a campus student your work – increased self-confidence, organization chapter of Students for expanded worldview and improved Citizen Diplomacy. adaptability and language skills, among others. Doing very well in college and obtaining a degree are important Find out about international exchange steps to prepare for a career in programs on websites such as: an international field. However, participating in experiential activities ■ MIUSA’s National Clearinghouse can make a significant difference in on Disability and Exchange at www. making connections and building the miusa.org depth of experience necessary to ■ Institute of International Education start an international career. at www.iiepassport.org ■ Go Abroad.com at www.goabroad.com Most people with disabilities who are ■ International Volunteer employed in international work have Program Association at www. in common a history of participation volunteerinternational.org. in international exchange. MIUSA’s National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange (www. INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE miusa.org, 541-343-1284 tel/tty) can EXPERIENCES provide tips, resources and referrals Whether it is volunteering in Latin to you and international exchange America, taking a summer foreign program staff, to assist in planning for language course in Europe or disability-related arrangements abroad. studying for a semester or year in See the last chapter of this booklet to find out more.

20 “My experience with American “As I look back, I truly think that my Friends Service Committee in Pueblo, studies and time in San Diego are Mexico crystallized that I wanted one of the best things that have ever to work in the developing world. It happened to me. The chance to study was a tremendous introduction to abroad gave me invaluable academic some of the issues and actors in the and professional opportunities international scene. Getting involved and, most importantly, provided in some kind of exchange to see if irreplaceable personal experiences.” an international experience is really Daniella Levy-Pinto, blind, where your passion lies is a good International Relations Major from Mexico. idea.” Alison Hillman, bi-polar disorder, “Peace Corps is an excellent advocacy director at Mental Disability opportunity, and it opens a lot of Rights International. doors. You gain experience, you’re close to different cultures, and “[When I applied for a social work it plays a very big role when you internship in Costa Rica] partly are talking about résumé building. I wanted to see if I really could Employers look at applications do this kind of work in a way that and time after time they will take would make a difference in the deaf the person with Peace Corps community where I worked, and if I experience.” really would find it as enjoyable and Chris Emanuel, wheelchair user, as rewarding as I hoped.… I found I works on international projects at the U.S. learned a great deal in the process Environmental Protection Agency. of preparing for the internship, and then going to Costa Rica for “I found my job after I came back those 11 weeks. I gained a lot of to India from MIUSA’s International confidence in myself and my skills Women’s Institute on Leadership and in giving leadership training to up- Disability exchange program in the and-coming deaf leaders. And it was United States. When Catholic Relief tremendously rewarding.” Services saw my résumé, they were Andrea Shettle, Deaf and attention quite impressed with it and that really deficit disorder, student internship in motivated them to consider hiring me.” Costa Rica, employed currently at the Jyoti Vidhani, physical disability, World Bank. Material Resources (MR)/MIS officer, Catholic Relief Services, India.

21 For those interested in working in “But, if you’re still not sure whether the study abroad field, a survey you want to go into this field, or of professionals indicated that if you can’t afford a long-term employers seeking to hire entry-level travel opportunity because of time, study abroad program advisors view money, or other constraints, short extensive international exchange trips abroad can still be worthwhile experience as the most important learning experiences if you do them (41 percent) qualification, followed right. Meet people who live locally by experience in an exchange and get to know them, whether it’s by program office (34 percent) such as traveling with a friend who is already a work-study position or internship familiar with the area or maybe while in college (Robinson, 2003). working with a local disability non- International exchange experience governmental organization.” is also ranked as most important Andrea Shettle, Deaf and attention among qualifications for exchange deficit disorder, research assistant at the World Bank. program representatives that travel around the country promoting The National Clearinghouse on programs, or overseas directors that Disability and Exchange’s book run the study abroad programs in Survival Strategies for Going Abroad: the host countries (Robinson, 2003). A Guide for People with Disabilities The same is true for other careers in (2005) shares first-hand accounts international affairs or international from people with disabilities who development. have participated in international exchanges and their strategies that “If you seriously want to enter the can help you in navigating places that international development field, then are unfamiliar. I would strongly urge you to find some way to do a long term internship, job, volunteer position, or other experience (Peace Corps, Volunteer Service Organization, whatever works) in a developing country. Try to get at least two years total under your belt, whether it’s all at once or in a few multi-month stints. Many international development organizations won’t even look at your résumé unless you have relatively extensive experience doing actual development work in a developing country.

22 Foreign Service Exam OTHER USEFUL EXPERIENCES “If international work is what you Foreign Language Skills are interested in, then you should More doors will open for you if you certainly seek out an international are proficient in another language in non-profit organization, or apply to the addition to English. The U.S. U.S. Department of State or another government alone requires 34,000 international federal agency. There are employees with foreign language a lot of opportunities for international skills, and American businesses work. Consider taking the Foreign increasingly need internationally Service exam.” experienced employees to compete Chris Emanuel, wheelchair user, in a global economy and to manage a international projects at the U.S. culturally diverse workforce. (Alliance Environmental Protection Agency. for International Educational and Cultural Exchange, 2003). Foreign Those who are interested in working in language skills are especially the Foreign Service must first take and important if your goal is to find a pass an exam that is conducted once position overseas, such as study a year. Since it is competitive, there abroad resident director, coordinating are practice books and preparatory host country logistics for participants courses that can prepare you for the while they are studying abroad. exam. To learn more about the exam, and if this career is right for you, visit If languages are not your strength, the Foreign Service website at: www. you don’t need to discount foreignservicecareers.gov. international work as a potential career option. Many jobs, particularly U.S.-based administrative positions for international organizations, do not require foreign language proficiency. However, your options for employment and graduate programs in international fields will be more limited if you do not have skills in English and another language.

23 Graduate Degrees political science, or public affairs may Entry-level positions in international be helpful in preparing for the Foreign organizations require at least an Service exam. undergraduate degree. A master’s degree is often required for more “I am getting ready to [go on to advanced positions, and doctorate graduate school]. I’m looking at degrees are sometimes required Johns Hopkins University and/or for executive level positions at the Kennedy School at Harvard international offices. For individuals University. I first wanted to become interested in U.S. Foreign Service very skilled at my position at the U.S. work, a graduate degree is most Environmental Protection Agency; valuable (see the degree section later I am beginning my third year here. to find out about graduate school They have a program that will allow preparatory programs). The majority us to get our master’s degree, so of study abroad staff surveyed that is my plan.” reported that they had master’s Chris Emanuel, wheelchair user, degrees, although an undergraduate undergraduate degree in International Relations at University of Southern California. degree was accepted as minimum qualification for a program advisor position at most of their institutions (Robinson, 2003). Interestingly, the level of degree held seemed to be less important to those serving overseas as resident directors or traveling the country as an exchange program representative.

Regarding field of study, International Relations seemed to be the major of most of the study abroad professionals surveyed, although the majority (70 percent) of their positions did not specify a required or preferred major (Roy Robinson, 2003). The U.S. Foreign Service also accepts a wide array of degrees. However, degrees that focus on economics, international relations, international or U.S. regional studies,

24 Informational Interviews Skill and Confidence Building Setting up short meetings to talk with Skills in interpersonal, intercultural professionals about their careers, and diplomatic communication as both what motivates them and their well as the ability to multi-task, think day to day tasks, can be helpful analytically and use the computer are in determining if such positions often highly desirable qualifications. would be right for you. Informational Participating in courses or activities, interviews can also give you insight such as the Model United Nations into the paths that others have taken conferences or intercultural training toward a career that you might find workshops, to practice and improve interesting. on these skills can be helpful in preparing for an international career. “I would strongly encourage you to pursue many ‘informational “I believed in myself, my own interviews’ with people who are capabilities and potential. [I also already doing the kind of work you had] some ideas, a little bit of think you might want to do some day empathy and a vision to create a and find out from them what degrees better and more equal society…. and experiences they have, what When you put all these qualities degrees their co-workers have, etc. If together, you are fit for success in you talk with people who make hiring this international field!” decisions you can also ask what Jyoti Vidhani, physical disability, kind of academic, work, internship, Material Resources Officer, Catholic Relief Services, India and volunteer experience they look for in their potential employees. Informational interviewing can be an excellent way to gather information that can help you figure out how to plan your academic career.” Andrea Shettle, Deaf and attention deficit disorder, research assistant at the World Bank.

25 “Get used to reading a world- Internships Many people with disabilities who renowned newspaper every day (Wall found jobs in the international Street Journal, New York Times, field first held internships to Washington Post, International Herald gain valuable experience toward Tribune, and other major newspapers their career goal. Visit college or in other countries) and apply early university career service offices or for internships. Knowledge will be contact organizations that interest your most important asset starting you directly to inquire if they have off, and an understanding of how the internship opportunities available. world works combined with the skills Some organizations that have and personality to express opinions international internship programs can help you immensely when are listed in the Stepping Stones: starting out.” International Fellowship Programs in Josh Pila, hard of hearing, former student intern at the Bureau of College section later in this booklet. Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State. “Take advantage of the various internship programs that the U.S. Department of State and other federal departments and agencies have to offer while you are in college. There is an array of positions. Apply and apply again; the competition is stiff, so be qualified. Be willing to go through it.” Deidre Davis, wheelchair user, former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Equal Opportunity and Civil Rights for the Department of State.

26 “Start with an internship is my “I did summer internships at different advice. Take advantage of the universities while in college in Atlanta, interaction with staff. Take your Berkeley, and Middlebury, Vermont responsibilities to heart. If you are with the Institute for International a good worker you will gain respect Public Policy (IIPP) fellowship program and open doors. Be open and [see the later chapter on fellowships sincere; say ‘I want to learn!’ When to find out more]. I was in the very first I interned at Mobility International cohort of IIPP fellows. When I came USA, I realized that I had a to Washington, DC to do a semester passion for cultures, international program for my university, IIPP helped communications, and negotiations. me to land a job at the Organization The internship made me look into an of Africans in the Americas, an Afro- international studies major.” Latino organization. That job afforded Ingrid Ioan, wheelchair user me the opportunity to go to Nicaragua from Romania, undergraduate student at the to facilitate a conference. We worked University of Oregon in international studies. closely with the United Nations, the Interagency Development Bank and “The summer internship with Catholic charities to get supplies and Gallaudet University’s Center for address the needs of communities of Global Education gave me the color throughout Central and South opportunity to set up a listserv America.” called deafintl. It put me in contact Chris Emanuel, wheelchair user, with deaf people in developing works on international projects at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. countries, which helped increase my commitment to getting more actively involved with affecting these issues. I think another outcome of my summer internship is that it increased my motivation for finding a way to do a social work internship abroad.” Andrea Shettle, Deaf and attention deficit disorder, research assistant at the World Bank

27 28 Stepping Stones

29 Stepping Stones: International Activities in High School

“The Berlin Wall fell when I was in high school, and I had a world history teacher who gave us global current events every single day of class. I thought, ‘Wow, what an interesting time to be alive. How wonderful if I could have a career affecting it in some way.’” Sandra Sermons, blind, master’s degree in International Relations from American University.

s with non-disabled students, 8844 tel/tty) is held worldwide and young people with disabilities locally, providing opportunities for Amust think about what young people with disabilities to they want to do after high school. gain skills and knowledge by being Extracurricular or classroom activities mentored by someone working in provide experiences that are often their field of interest. While these invaluable in helping students events are not necessarily related to decide on a career path. For to the international field, you general information on transitioning can express your interests in an into future plans for youth with international career and ask for a disabilities, you can find resources mentoring site that lets you explore from the National Center on that in more detail. Secondary Education and Transition (www.ncset.org, 612-624-4512). FOREIGN LANGUAGE OR Following are examples of INTERNATIONAL SUMMER CAMPS international activities that are good ways for you to explore international The younger you are, the easier interests and opportunities. it may be to learn a language. Check out local summer camps, courses or clubs that allow you to DISABILITY MENTORING AND JOB be immersed in a foreign language. SHADOWING DAYS A general listing of foreign language camps for youth can be found at the In February each year, the national Southwestern Opportunities Network Job Shadow Day (www.jobshadow.org, (www.swopnet.com/geo_rodeowriter_ 800-373-3174) kicks off a program 2000/lang_camps.html, 512-327- in which a million high school 1310). Foreign languages will also students explore careers by being help you learn about other cultures matched with workplace mentors, and perspectives. If you cannot find who over the year provide on the job a course, camp or club in your area, experiences that complement what find people in your community that students learn in the classroom. speak another language or check out Each October, Disability Mentoring foreign language books and tapes Day (www.dmd-aapd.org, 800-840- from the local library. 30 Another option is to participate in and minority students. This prepares summer camps in the United States them for college and the working with people from other countries, world in an increasingly global such as Children’s International society. Summer Villages (www.cisvusa. org, 888-247-8872), Volunteers for “We must give all of our young Peace’s international workcamps people access to the high-quality (www.vfp.org, 802-259-2759) or education they need to succeed Interlochen’s international summer in today’s demanding economy,” camp (www.interlochen.org, 231-276- said Tom Vander Ark, director of 7200). Being surrounded by people education for the Bill and Melinda who speak other languages can be a Gates Foundation that funded fun way to learn new vocabulary and the Asia Society schools. “These concepts. students will leave high school with a strong knowledge of other countries, An internationally focused summer cultures and languages, and a strong session for high school students can desire to keep learning, follow their be found at Georgetown University’s dreams and explore exciting career Special Programs (www.georgetown. paths.” edu/ssce/spp/hsir.htm, 202-687- 5719). This Washington, DC one- week workshop on international relations includes small-group discussions, site visits, and lectures that introduce students to the complexity of foreign policy issues and teaches intercultural empathy. The session can be a good introduction to an international career.

INTERNATIONAL STUDIES AND FOREIGN LANGUAGE IMMERSION SCHOOLS The Asia Society (www. internationaled.org/schools.htm, 212-327-9227) has created a national network of urban secondary schools in five U.S. cities devoted to providing an education that includes international studies for low-income

31 Other internationally focused schools, A Model U.N. event is a good first step that are members of International into international activities, as you Studies School Association (www. do not already have to know about du.edu/issa) are available across the international relations. Anyone can United States from Illinois to Oregon participate who has the ambition to to Texas. Ask your local school learn something new, and to work with district if there is an international people to try to make a difference in high school in which you could the world. The Model U.N. experience enroll. You can also take high school promotes interest in international classes to help prepare for an relations, increases the capacity to international college degree. engage in problem solving, teaches aspects of conflict resolution, research If you are interested in schools that skills and communication, and creates teach in two languages, the Center an opportunity to meet new people for Applied Linguistics (www.cal. and make new friends. org/resources/earlyfl/; [email protected]) reports there are 248 such programs in the United States, with the majority ONLINE INTERNATIONAL LEARNING being public schools teaching EXCHANGES Spanish and English. Whether writing to a pen pal in another country or participating in online chats with students from around the MODEL UNITED NATIONS world, Internet-based experiences Model United Nations (U.N.) (www. can cultivate learning about different un.org/cyberschoolbus) is an cultural perspectives. An example of authentic simulation of the U.N. this is International Education and General Assembly and other Resource Network (iEARN), a non-profit multilateral bodies, in which students organization made up of over 20,000 assume the role of ambassadors to schools in more than 109 countries. the U.N. at a Model U.N. event. More iEARN (www.iearn.org, 212-870-2693) than 200,000 high school students brings teachers and young people participate either in classrooms in together online using the Internet their own high schools, or at larger and other new communications conferences with participants from technologies for students to engage in all over the United States and the educational projects with peers in their world. More than 400 conferences countries and around the world. The take place in 35 countries each year. Canadian based E-PALS Classroom Model U.N. conferences are held Exchange (www.epals.com, 613-562- virtually every month throughout the 9847) provides tools to translate school year, with fewer events in the foreign languages online and matches summer. classrooms from different countries for cultural exchange discussions.

32 The British Council’s Windows on bring high school students from the World website (www.wotw.org. other countries to the United States uk, 44-20-7389-4359) is also a free and send U.S. high school students resource to make school-to-school abroad for summer, semester or connections worldwide. academic year programs. Some of these organizations may offer Other international online resources scholarships to support participation include those from Returned Peace of individuals from underrepresented Corps Volunteers, who share groups, such as people with personal experiences and country disabilities, members of ethnic or information with classrooms through cultural minority groups, and people the following programs: from low-income backgrounds. ■ World Wise Schools (www. MIUSA’s National Clearinghouse peacecorps.gov/wws, 800-424- on Disability and Exchange (www. 8580 ext. 1450) miusa.org, 541-343-1284 tel/tty) ■ Global Teach Net (www.rpcv.org/ can provide tips and resources to pages/globalteachnet.cfm, 202- assist you and the exchange program 293-7728, ext. 11) staff to plan for disability-related ■ One World, Our World (www. accommodations abroad. members.cox.net/1wow_program, 800-910-5437). The following are just a few of the many programs available. To learn Ask your teachers if they can help you about other programs, consult the to become involved. Advisory List publication:

Tel: (703) 739-9050 INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE Fax: (703) 739-9039 PROGRAMS E-mail: [email protected] Whether as a participant traveling Web: www.csiet.org overseas for study, language learning, volunteer or cultural Also browse these websites: tours, or as a homestay family that welcomes a high school student ■ MIUSA’s National Clearinghouse from another country into your on Disability and Exchange (www. home – international exchanges give miusa.org) you real life experiences that can ■ GoAbroad.com (www. influence your future interests and highschoolprogramsabroad.com) qualifications. American Institute for ■ PlanetEdu (www.planetedu.com). Foreign Study found that 86 percent of alumni in its high school exchange programs felt the experience was a worthwhile investment in their future. The programs described here both 33 Academic Year In The USA (AYUSA) AFS Intercultural Programs offers Tel: (800) 727-4540 x543 or academic, cultural and volunteer (415) 434-1212 exchanges to a variety of countries Fax: (415) 674-5232 and has experience accommodating E-mail: [email protected] participants with a range of Web: www.ayusa.org disabilities. Various scholarships are available. AYUSA offers academic year, semester or summer programs and homestays. It has had experience American Councils with disabled applicants, and will Tel: (202) 833-7522 work with its network of community Fax: (202) 833-7523 representatives to find the E-mail: [email protected] situation that will best match the Web: www.americancouncils.org applicant’s needs and interests. It also provides scholarships through American Councils specializes in the the U.S. Department of State’s countries of Eastern Europe, Russia Youth Exchange and Study Program and Eurasia, and has facilitated for secondary students from placements for participants with predominately Islamic countries. disabilities on several occasions. Its U.S. Department of State sponsored Future Leaders Exchange Program AFS Intercultural Programs provides scholarships for students Applicants from outside the from Eurasia. United States contact:

AFS International American Intercultural Tel: (212) 807-8686 Student Exchange Fax: (212) 807-1001 Tel: (800) 742-5464 or E-mail: [email protected] (858) 459-9761 Web: www.afs.org Fax: (858) 459-5301 E-mail: [email protected] Applicants from within the United Web: www.sibling.org States should contact: AFS-USA People with disabilities have Tel: (800) 237-4636 or participated in American Intercultural (212) 299-9000 Student Exchange academic and Fax: (212) 299-9090 cultural exchange programs and E-mail: [email protected] are encouraged to contact AISE for Web: http://usa.afs.org information on opportunities.

34 ASSE International Student Eurocentres exchange programs Exchange Programs include intensive language programs Tel: (800) 733-2773 or in French, German, Italian, Japanese, (425) 803-9490 Russian, Spanish and English. Almost Fax: (425) 828-1987 all of the centers have wheelchair E-mail: [email protected] access, and Eurocentres has Web: www.asse.com accommodated many paraplegic, blind, dyslexic and partially deaf ASSE International offers homestay, students. educational and cultural exchanges to U.S. and foreign students who wish to live and study abroad. Nacel Open Door They provide scholarships, such Tel: (800) 622-3553 or as through the U.S Department of (651) 686-0080 State’s Congress-Bundestag Youth Fax: (651) 686-9601 Exchange Program between Germany E-mail: [email protected] and the United States. Students Web: www.nacelopendoor.org with all types of disabilities are encouraged to participate in ASSE Nacel Open Door offers academic, International programs. language, and homestay programs for either short or long duration. Students with disabilities are Enforex Spanish Language School encouraged to apply. Tel: (34-91) 594-3776 in Spain Fax: (34-91) 594-5159 in Spain E-mail: [email protected] Pacific Intercultural Exchange- Web: www.enforex.es USA, Inc. Tel: (888) 743-8721 or Enforex offers summer language (619) 238-6767 camps for youth ages 6-18 years of Fax: (619) 238-6717 age. Members of the staff are flexible E-mail: [email protected] and open to working with students Web: www.pieusa.org with disabilities. U.S. and foreign secondary students are reciprocally exchanged for two Eurocentres weeks to ten months for educational Tel: (800) 648-4809 or and intercultural purposes. Pacific (703) 684-1494 Intercultural Exchange welcomes Fax: (703) 684-1495 interested high school students with E-mail: [email protected] disabilities to contact their office for Web: www.eurocentres.com more information.

35 Program of Academic Exchange YMCA International Program Tel: (800) 555-6211 or Services (203) 629-8116 Tel: (888) 477-9622 or Fax: (203) 629-0486 (212) 727-8800 E-mail: [email protected] Fax: (212) 727-8814 Web: www.pax.org E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.ymcainternational.org Program of Academic Exchange seeks good, solid students from The Go Global Program arranges mixed backgrounds, representing volunteer positions and the Camp various social and economic levels Counselor Program sends young for its educational and cultural adults to serve as staff in YMCA exchanges. Full scholarships are camps throughout world and in awarded to a number of students the United States. People with all each year. Program of Academic types of disabilities are eligible to Exchange has accepted and participate in various programs of the successfully placed students with a YMCA. variety of disabilities. Youth For Understanding USA Tel: (800) 833-6243 or Rotary International Youth (240) 235-2100 Exchange Fax: (202) 895-1104 Tel: (847) 866-3000 TTY: (800) 787-8000 Fax: (847) 328-8554 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.youthforunderstanding.org Web: www.rotary.org/programs/ youth_ex/index.html Youth for Understanding USA provides a number of summer, Rotary International Youth Exchange semester and school year programs programs provide short- and long- in Asia, Europe, North America, term opportunities for high school South America and the Pacific. YFU students in more than 60 countries. encourages students with disabilities Interested students must apply to apply to their programs. through their local Rotary Clubs. Rotary encourages participation of people with disabilities.

36 Stepping Stones: International Degree Programs in College

“For me, a highlight is watching my students going out into the world and making a difference. My Ugandan graduate student works in New Delhi teaching members of a Deaf women’s association about HIV/ AIDS. Those Indian women then, in turn, teach other Deaf women. What a wonderful domino effect!” Amy Wilson, Professor of International Development Certificate Program at Gallaudet University.

n order to work in international economics and foreign languages is affairs, development or exchange sometimes required for entrance into Ifields, many people seek out an graduate programs. international relations or studies degree program, such as those To talk with admissions counselors that are listed in this section. Many at various programs, both APSIA and programs are interdisciplinary in the Public Policy and International nature and provide courses that can Affairs program (www.ppiaprogram. be useful for various international org, 202-496-0130) host free career paths. For undergraduate graduate school expos in several programs, browse the college guides cities each fall. Also the following two and online databases, such as U.S. programs assist undergraduates that News college rankings (www.usnews. are underrepresented in graduate com) and Peterson’s college guides schools to prepare for successful (http://iiswinprd01.petersons.com). admissions to graduate school. Thousands of options are available.

If you are ready for graduate school, the Association of Professional Schools in International Affairs (www. apsia.org, 303-871-4021) found 3,000 students enrolled in 2003 in the 29 U.S. graduate programs in International Affairs, with 56 percent women, 23 percent international students, and 20 percent minority students. A partial listing of these schools follows, but visit the APSIA website for a complete list of its graduate school programs. While one does not need to have majored in International Relations as an undergraduate, coursework in

37 Ronald E. McNair Post Eligibility Baccalaureate Achievement ■ Cumulative GPA of 2.7 or above Program ■ United States citizenship or permanent resident status Student Status: Juniors and seniors ■ A first generation college student in college during first summer (i.e. neither parent attended more session than two years of college), who Location: 156 higher education has an income level of not more institutions across the United than 150 percent of the federal States poverty level and/or a member of Deadline: Varies with institution, a group that is underrepresented usually early spring in graduate education Contact: ■ Commitment to post-baccalaureate E-mail: [email protected] education, particularly doctoral (Tom O’Brien) studies Web: www.mcnairscholars.org “The McNair Scholars Program The McNair program, funded by the prepared me for the Public Policy U.S. Department of Education, is and International Affairs Fellowship designed to prepare undergraduate Program (PPIA), and prepared me students for graduate level studies for Congressional Hispanic Caucus through involvement in research Internships, which prepared me and other scholarly activities. The for my internship with the U.S. goal of the program is to increase Department of State. I hope it will doctoral degree attainment of lead me to a Fulbright fellowship and students from underrepresented graduate school.” segments of society. Institutions Nelly Nieblas, cerebral palsy work closely with participants through and dyslexia, McNair scholar, their undergraduate requirements, International Relations garduate of encourage their entrance into University of Southern California. graduate programs, and track their progress to successful completion of advanced degrees. Fellowships include: ■ Mentoring and academic counseling ■ GRE preparation and fees paid ■ Fee waivers for some graduate school applications ■ Research internships with a stipend of up to $2,800.

38 Public Policy and International ■ Minimum of $5,000 toward Affairs (PPIA) Fellowship Program graduate school tuition and waived application fees at 41 consortium Student Status: Completed junior schools year of college by the start of the ■ Eligible for paid internships. fellowship; seniors must have a full semester or two quarters remaining Eligibility before graduation ■ Must demonstrate a commitment Location: University of California to public service – Berkeley, University of Michigan, ■ Economic need is given extra University of Maryland, and consideration Carnegie Mellon University ■ Any academic major is accepted Deadline: March 1 ■ United States citizen or permanent Contact: resident Tel: (202) 496-0130 Fax: (202) 496-0134 “The PPIA coordinator at UC- Berkeley E-mail: [email protected] was very receptive. When my tape Web: www.ppiaprogram.org recorder broke the second week of the program, I wondered how I was PPIA seven-week summer fellowships going to compete and keep up with prepare students, primarily from notes in the program. I explained to historically underrepresented groups, the coordinator what I needed, as for graduate studies and careers in well as extended time on tests, and public and/or international affairs. within 24 hours I got a tape recorder. This focus stems from a core belief While I really appreciated this, when that citizens are best served by that one didn’t work out for what I public managers, policy makers and needed, they got me a second one community leaders who represent right away with higher quality. When the diverse backgrounds and I reported that the handrails in my perspectives of their constituencies. bathroom weren’t solid, within a The program focuses on economics, week they had someone in there domestic/international policy repairing it. This helped make the issues and leadership topics to PPIA program just beautiful – I still sharpen quantitative, analytic and keep in touch with the coordinator communication skills. today.” Nelly Nieblas, cerebral palsy and Fellowships include: dyslexia, PPIA alumnus, International ■ Full tuition/board for PPIA Junior Relations graduate of University of Southern California. Summer Policy Institute, plus $1,000 stipend

39 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS, Brandeis University DEVELOPMENT AND EXCHANGE Master of Arts in International DEGREE PROGRAMS Sustainable Development Waltham, Massachusetts Tel: (781) 736 2770 American University Fax: (781) 762775 School of International Service E-mail: [email protected] Washington, DC Web: http://heller.brandeis.edu/sid Tel: (202) 885-1603 Fax: (202) 885-2494 A two-year program in development E-mail: [email protected] studies and project planning, Web: www.american.edu/sis/ implementation and evaluation. The admissions/graduate.htm program includes a Year-in-Residence and a Second Year professional This school has degree programs internship or advanced study. A one- corresponding to eight fields of year accelerated MA is available study: Comparative and Regional for students with significant project Studies, Global Environmental management experience. Policy, International Communication,

International Development, “The Sustainable International International Economic Policy, Development Master’s program International Politics, Peace and at Brandeis University provides an Conflict Resolution, and United excellent opportunity to learn in States Foreign Policy. Undergraduate an international community about degrees are also available in the current global issues related to international field. poverty, environmental degradation, preventable disease and social and “I received a master’s degree economic development. The program in International Relations from is an amazing tool for international American University, and it has a cooperation and learning. People with wonderful school of international disabilities must be represented in service. The fact that it’s in the this global dialogue for social justice heart of Washington, DC makes it an and human rights. As a bilateral absolutely spectacular place to be, amputee, I felt fortunate to be able so while I was there I did a little bit to learn in such an environment and of everything, besides just getting I encourage more individuals with my degree. That was also when I did disabilities to become a part of this exchange programs to Prague and growing and much-needed field.” Mexico.” Rhonda Neuhaus, bilateral Sandra Sermons, blind, employed with amputee, law student at the University of the U.S. Department of the Interior. Maryland, Baltimore.

40 Gallaudet University Georgetown University Graduate Certificate in International School of Foreign Service Development Washington, DC Washington, DC Tel: (202) 687-5763 Tel/TTY: (800) 995-0513 Fax: (202) 687-5116 Fax: (202) 651-5295 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: graduate.school@gallaudet. Web: www.georgetown.edu/sfs/ edu; [email protected] about.html Web: http://gradschool.gallaudet. edu/gradschool/Prospective/ The school’s liberal arts prospective.html; http://edf3. undergraduate program includes a gallaudet.edu/international.htm two-year required core curriculum followed by two years of This certificate introduces students multidisciplinary electives. Major to contemporary theory and practice fields of study include history, in international development. It international politics, international draws on theories and material economics, comparative and from education, political science, regional studies, culture and politics, administration and supervision, and science and technology. Six economics, and research and interdisciplinary graduate programs stresses the interdisciplinary nature – four regional studies programs of development studies. The courses as well as the Master of Science are also available online. in Foreign Service and the Security Studies Program – are designed “I didn’t major in international to teach students to think about, development or any related field before analyze, and act in the world. now mostly because I didn’t know it was even possible. Now, Gallaudet “I decided to do an international University has a new graduate program at Georgetown University certificate program in international because I was interested in politics, development with disability and I have international interests communities in developing countries. from my experiences traveling for It requires five graduate classes (15 sports. I studied abroad in my credits). I’m pursuing that now.” junior year in Australia, and they Andrea Shettle, Deaf and attention are encouraging me to apply for the deficit disorder, research assistant at the Rhodes and Marshall fellowships for World Bank. study in England when I graduate. I’m interested in studying international development in graduate school.” Jennifer Howitt, wheelchair user, undergraduate in International Affairs at Georgetown University.

41 School for International Training University of California, San Diego MA in International Education Graduate School of International Brattleboro, Vermont Relations and Pacific Studies (IR/PS) Tel: (800) 336-1616 La Jolla, California Fax: (802) 258-3500 Tel: (858) 534-5914 E-mail: [email protected] Fax: (858) 534-1135 Web: www.sit.edu E-mail: [email protected] Web: http://irps.ucsd.edu SIT’s MA in International Education prepares graduates to be educational This program focuses on the policy advocates and program economic, political, and business administrators. Students examine relations of the Pacific Rim the effects of globalism, changing countries, encompassing both technology, immigration law and the Americas and the Asia-Pacific educational policy on international region. IR/PS attracts students programs. Other MA programs from every region of the Pacific Rim include: Social Justice in Intercultural and beyond. It includes regional Relations, Sustainable Development, specializations in Latin America, Intercultural Service Leadership Japan, Korea, China and Southeast and Management, and Conflict Asia, and career concentrations Transformation. in international management, international economics, “The MA degree in International international politics, public policy, Education at the School for international development and International Training (SIT) gave nonprofit management, international me the skills and professional environmental policy, country and development opportunities to regional studies, or self-designed advance my career and personal concentrations. interests in international education. SIT teaches from an experiential “As I entered high school, I began education model, which focuses on to explore possible academic and the uniqueness of different cultures professional opportunities for the and educational systems around future. I decided to pursue my the world. My experience at SIT has bachelor’s degree in International made a lasting impression on my Relations at the Universidad personal life, but more important, Iberoamericana in Mexico City. In the it has paved the way for my years following my undergraduate professional career.” studies, I earned my first career- Kristin L. Hoobler, learning disability, related job as a political analyst at Class of PIM 61, Resident Director of the the Mexican Institute for Political Honor’s College Residence Hall, Oregon Studies, where I worked for a few State University. years. It had always been a dream of mine to live and attend a university 42 in another country, so I started organizations with an international concentrating on graduate programs focus. A minimum of 73 credits must in the United States and Canada. be completed for the degree. Areas I felt that such an opportunity of professional concentration include would not only be beneficial for my cross-cultural training, gender and career, but it would also enhance development, international education, my independence….I found myself and public policy and planning. having to prepare, and eventually Approximately half of the program’s take the Test of English as a Foreign graduate students are international Language (TOEFL) and the Graduate students. Record Examination (GRE). In order for me to take these exams, I had “Choosing an international career to obtain special accommodations, offered me a great opportunity to such as a reader and extended test expand my horizons and helped me time. Several weeks after submitting to make sense of our society and the my applications, I learned that I was diversity of life. Being in International accepted into the Graduate School Studies not only developed my of International Relations and Pacific understanding of international Studies (IR/PS) at the University of political questions but also taught me California, San Diego. Obviously, this how to think critically and objectively was exciting news and it meant that I about the cultural dimensions of was one step closer to achieving my international relations.” goal.” Ingrid Ioan, wheelchair user, Daniella Levy-Pinto, blind, from Romania, undergraduate student from Mexico, IR/PS graduate of University in international studies, the University of of California, San Diego. Oregon.

University of Oregon International Studies Program Eugene, Oregon Tel: (541) 346-5052 Fax: (541) 346-5041 E-mail: [email protected] Web: http://darkwing.uoregon. edu/~isp

An interdisciplinary undergraduate and master’s degree program in international studies is offered for students who contemplate careers in international affairs, international development, diplomacy, international organizations, or domestic

43 Stepping Stones: International Fellowship Programs In College

“First of all, my own study abroad experience to China led to my current career in the field. Second, and most importantly, the overseas experience opened my eyes to the needs of individuals in other regions of the world – particularly those people with disabilities or chronic diseases such as myself. Studying abroad challenged me physically, emotionally and intellectually in ways I never could have imagined but am now so grateful for. I was forced to grow up.” Elise Read, diabetes, former Arcadia College Study Abroad Regional Director, National Security Education Program fellowship student recipient for study abroad to China.

ince 1981 when Mobility National Council for International International USA (MIUSA) Visitors. Internships enabled Sbegan promoting the individuals to gain experience in the importance of international exchange international exchange field, and for to the disability community, MIUSA these organizations to gain disability has seen an increase in the numbers perspectives by hosting an intern of individuals with disabilities who with a disability. Eight U.S. interns have gone on exchange programs. with disabilities, many from minority However, there are still very few backgrounds, participated in recent people with disabilities working in summers with support from the international career fields. Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of In order to encourage people with State and hosting organizations. disabilities to not only go on an exchange, but to consider a career “Serbia, Montenegro, Germany, in the field, MIUSA and the American Finland, Peru, Hungary, Ghana Association of People with Disabilities and Russia are just a few of the (AAPD), under the auspice of the countries that were represented by National Clearinghouse on Disability international exchange visitors to and Exchange, began a collaborative Kalamazoo, Michigan. Participating in project to promote internships the internship program provided me for people with disabilities at with an extraordinary opportunity to international exchange organizations meet fascinating people, expand my in the United States. Internship knowledge of international relations sites have included Partners and intertwine disability awareness in of the Americas and Youth for international exchanges…. I wrote a Understanding USA in Washington, grant, designed a website, presented DC, and locally based member a proposal at a board meeting and organizations of NAFSA: Association attended international education of International Educators and conferences in Lincoln, Nebraska and

44 Washington, DC. These experiences The Congressional Hispanic are very relevant to the career path I Caucus Institute (CHCI) am interested in pursuing.” Alison LePage, learning disability, Applicant Status: Graduate student interned with Colleagues International. or a BA/BS degree within one year of application deadline Other organizations’ programs Location: Washington, DC area provide a variety of opportunities Deadline: January 31 from preparatory courses to study Contact: abroad to internships. Some of Tel: (800) 392-3532 these fellowships are primarily Web: www.chci.org/chciyouth/ for those from ethnic minority internship/internshipprogram.htm backgrounds, while others specify other requirements. Most offer CHCI offers a nine-month fellowship generous opportunities to gain program for up to twenty Latinos needed experience towards the goal from across the country. Fellows gain of working in international fields. direct experience at the national level Alumni surveys consistently illustrate in public policy, such as international that these fellowships have strong affairs or other specialized programs effects on determining career paths. in government, advocacy or media Some do not focus specifically offices. Fellows research and on international experiences, but interview for potential placements, fellows can request an international and then select a position that component. Internships are best fits their interests. In addition available in international non-profit to work, fellows participate in organizations or international community service and weekly divisions of federal governmental leadership development discussions, offices. While not common, students and write policy papers. have occasionally found permanent positions in the organization in which Fellowships include they interned. ■ Domestic round-trip transportation to Washington, DC The following provides a brief ■ Health insurance overview of some of the ■ Gross monthly stipend of $2,061- opportunities that can assist you to $2,500 for housing and local explore your interests and make you expenses more competitive when pursuing your first job. Eligibility ■ High academic achievement (prefer 3.0 GPA or higher) ■ Consistent active participation in public service-oriented activities

45 ■ Superior analytical and Hispanic Association of Colleges communication skills and Universities (HACU) National ■ U.S. citizenship or legal permanent Internship Program residency Applicant Status: Enrolled “The CHCI program was tough, but I undergraduate or graduate student, learned to get through it. It prepared completed first year of college me for future fellowship programs, before the internship begins because it helped me to be more Location: Across the United States professional. I knew a couple of other Deadline: February 27, June 11, people with disabilities that went November 7 through that program. I’m assisting in Contact: writing a disability survival guide for Tel: (202) 467-0893 future CHCI fellows.” Fax: (202) 496-9177 Nelly Nieblas, learning disability E-mail: [email protected] and cerebral palsy, International Web: www.hnip.net Relations graduate from University of Southern California. The HACU National Internship Program (HNIP) recruits college students matching their majors and career goals for paid summer- and semester-long internships at federal agencies and private corporations in Washington, DC, and throughout the country. These ten- and fifteen- week internship programs give college students direct experience in a variety of careers in the federal and corporate sectors. They also provide for travel and help facilitate finding housing at internships sites throughout the country.

Eligibility ■ Minimum 3.0 GPA ■ U.S. citizenship or permanent residency ■ Preferred to be active in community and campus activities

46 Human Rights Watch they arise and match the students’ interests and abilities, including Applicant Status: Undergraduate and research, drafting documents, graduate students translating, and helping researchers Location: New York, Washington, DC, prepare for missions. Internships and Los Angeles are generally unpaid, although work- Deadline: October 1 study funds and post-graduate level Contact: fellowships are available. Academic Tel: (212) 290-4700 credit, interaction with other U.S. Fax: (212) 736-1300 and international organizations and E-mail: [email protected] foreign and domestic government Web: www.hrw.org/about officials, and opportunities to attend lectures and special events relating Human Rights Watch offers academic to human rights are also involved. semester and summer internships for undergraduate and graduate Eligibility students in monitoring human rights ■ Well-organized, self-motivated and developments in various countries, reliable, with a strong interest in drafting reports on human rights international human rights conditions, and engaging in advocacy ■ Relevant coursework highly efforts aimed at curtailing human desirable rights violations. Undergraduate ■ Foreign languages a plus internships are primarily ■ Computer literacy required administrative and clerical in nature, ■ Additional requirements for each but other projects can be assigned as fellowship program (see website)

47 International Institute on Public ■ Summer Senior Year Intensive Policy (IIPP) foreign language program that is fully paid for, including travel to Applicant Status: Sophomore college the university that offers the student course. If a Fellow is already Location: Atlanta in first year competent in a foreign language, with visits to New York City and he or she participates in a summer Washington, DC.; other sites vary internship experience with cost of in the following years of the living stipend provided. fellowship ■ Graduate school fellowships are Deadline: March 1 available to study in international Contact: fields. Some will participate in Tel: (800) 530-6232 internships for a year after Fax: (703) 205-7645 graduation in lieu of entering E-mail: [email protected] graduate school right away. Web: www.uncfsp.org/iipp Eligibility Funded by U.S. Department of ■ Enrolled full-time at four-year Education and administered by institution United Negro College Fund Special ■ U.S. citizen or permanent resident Programs, IIPP was established ■ Minimum 3.2 grade point average to create a more diverse pool of ■ Interest in career in international professionals in U.S. international service affairs, and focuses its fellowships ■ Underrepresented minority: African toward underrepresented minorities. American, Hispanic/Latino American, American Indian, Asian Fellows participate in: American, Alaskan Native, Native ■ Summer Sophomore Policy Hawaiian or Pacific Islander Institute in Atlanta for eight weeks. Includes travel to Washington, DC. “I owe IIPP everything. Everyday for and New York for policy briefings. nine months I was going to interviews Fellows pay for travel to the and putting out résumés. And then institute but all program and living IIPP had a conference where they expenses are provided during the invited all the fellows of the different institute. IIPP cohorts to Washington, DC. Over ■ Junior semester abroad component lunch a woman invited herself to in which half is paid by IIPP and our table and asked if I would like a the rest by institutional aid and job…. I was shocked. She became family contributions. my boss at the Fulbright office.” ■ Junior Summer Policy Institute Chris Emanuel, wheelchair user, to prepare for graduate programs IIPP alumnus. in international fields. All expenses covered including travel. 48 Presidential Management Intern Eligibility (PMI) Program ■ Breadth and quality of accomplishments Applicant Status: Master’s and ■ Capacity for leadership doctoral-level students ■ Demonstrated commitment Locations: Washington, DC. and to a career in the analysis and federal government offices management of public policies and Deadline: October 15 - Applicants programs must be nominated by their ■ U.S. citizenship institutions. Contact: “I’m a contract specialist for the Tel: (202) 606-1800 federal government in the General TTY: (202) 606-2532 Services Administration. I did a two- E-mail: [email protected] year internship program sponsored by Web: www.pmi.opm.gov the Department of the Interior, and if you finished the program you were The PMI Program provides students guaranteed a spot at one of your with an opportunity to apply the location sites. One of the places that knowledge they acquired from I rotated to was here, and I’ve been graduate study to federal government here ever since.” jobs. As a PMI, participants’ Sandra Sermons, blind, assignments may involve domestic U.S. Department of the Interior. or international issues, technology, science, criminal justice, health, financial management, and many other fields in support of public service programs. Through the two- year internship program, graduate students are appointed to federal positions. Internships are paid positions with benefits. Interns will be rotated through departments to work with different federal government offices, including the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the United States Department of State and other internationally- oriented offices. After completing the program, interns have the opportunity to obtain a permanent federal civil service position.

49 Thomas R. Pickering Foreign ■ Reimbursement for books Affairs Fellowship ■ Participating graduate schools provide financial support in the Applicant Status: Sophomore year of second year of graduate study undergraduate study based on need Locations: Washington, DC, various ■ Stipends during participation in locations in the United States and one overseas and one domestic overseas internship within the U.S. Deadline: February 20 Department of State. Contact: Tel: (609) 452-7007 Eligibility Fax: (609) 452-0066 ■ Strength of undergraduate course E-mail: [email protected] work (college honors and awards) Web: www.woodrow.org/public- ■ Economic status (demonstrate policy/foreign_affairs_fellowship.html financial need) ■ United States citizen The Woodrow Wilson National ■ A cumulative and consistent grade Fellowship Foundation sponsors this point average of at least 3.2 seven-week summer course work in ■ Extracurricular/community/ economics and policy analysis, with volunteer activities and leadership exercises to develop oral and written roles communication skills following the ■ Medical and security clearances junior year. During graduate school, will be required for program fellows are also provided with two participation summer internships at the U.S. Department of State, domestic and overseas. A foreign service mentor is also provided to fellows during graduate school. Once they have graduated and passed the foreign service exam, each successful fellow must work a minimum of four and one half years of service in an appointment as a foreign service officer.

Fellowship include ■ Tuition, room, board, and mandatory fees during the junior and senior years of college and during the first year of graduate study

50 The Washington Center for Eligibility Internships and Academic ■ Enrolled full-time in an accredited Seminars college or university ■ At least a 2.75 GPA Applicant Status: At least a second- ■ Enroll for academic credit for the semester sophomore at the time of internship the internship ■ Be a U.S. citizen Location: Washington, DC area ■ Self-identify as a person with a Deadline: November 15 for spring disability as defined by the ADA internships; check website for other deadlines The Washington Center also offers Contact: other placement programs and Tel: (202) 336-7600 minority scholarships for which Fax: (202) 336-7609 people with disabilities can apply. E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.twc.edu “I worked with the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) program and helped Through a partnership with the U.S. facilitate a system of international Department of Labor’s Office of cultural exchange that makes a wide Disability Employment Policy, the impact on personal levels of all the Washington Center is working to help participants…I had just finished students develop leadership skills grant paperwork at the office when and gain valuable work experience in we had a visit from a group of FLEX public service, and will complement students [from Eurasia]. In that one students’ professional experience moment, the paperwork linked to with academic training for credit. the human face and I could see the The center provides a total of fifty effects of the American government’s competitive scholarship awards international exchange programs and in the amount of $7,430 each for see the fruits of my labor.” students with disabilities interested Josh Pila, hard of hearing, student intern at Bureau of Educational in working in the executive, judicial, and Cultural Affairs of the United States or legislative branches of the federal Department of State. government. Interns interested in working in international divisions of these offices should include this on their applications.

51 Benjamin A. Gilman International FELLOWSHIPS FOR OVERSEAS Scholarship Program EXPERIENCE Applicant Status: Undergraduate Since international exchanges are a college student key motivating and qualifying factor Location: Varies, encourages study in for many people with disabilities to non-western locations establish a career in working in the Deadline: April 15 and September 22 international affairs, development Contact: or exchange fields, the following Tel: (713) 621-6300, ext. 29 fellowships may make the experience E-mail: [email protected] more feasible. MIUSA’s National Web: www.iie.org/programs/gilman Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange can assist you to find other The Gilman Scholarship Program programs that might fit you as well, offers grants for students of limited and also provide disability-related financial means to pursue academic information on preparing to travel studies abroad. The program aims abroad. to support students who have been traditionally underrepresented in study abroad, such as those with disabilities. Award recipients must use the award to defray eligible study abroad costs. These costs include program tuition, room and board, books, local transportation, insurance and international airfare. This congressionally funded program awards up to $5000, and is sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State and administered by the Institute of International Education.

Eligibility ■ U.S. citizen ■ Attending a two- or four-year institution. ■ Must be receiving a Pell grant at the time of application. ■ Applying to or been accepted for a program of study abroad that awards credit 52 Carnegie Council on Ethics and David L. Boren National Security International Affairs Fellows Education Program (NSEP) Program Applicant Status: Undergraduate and Applicant Status: Junior scholars graduate students and mid-career professionals Location: Varies, certain sites are Location: New York City excluded from this program, Deadline: January 15 including Western Europe, Canada, Contact: Australia, and New Zealand Tel: (212) 838-4120 Deadline: February 10 for Fax: (212) 752-2432 undergraduates and January 29 for E-mail: [email protected] graduates, however students must Web: www.carnegiecouncil.org/ apply through their campus first, page.php/prmID/48 usually in December or January Contact: The nonresidential Fellows Program Institute of International Education supports young scholars, educators (undergraduates) and practitioners involved with the Tel: (800) 618-6737 or ethical dimensions of international (202) 326-7697 affairs. Program areas include: Fax: (202) 326-7698 environmental values, ethics and E-mail: [email protected] use of force, history and the politics Web: www.iie.org/nsep of reconciliation, human rights, and justice and the world economy. Academy for Educational Participants attend two, week-long Development (graduates) workshops, the first at the start of Tel: (800) 498-9360 or the program year for orientation, the (202) 884-8285 second at the end of their fellowship Fax: (202) 884-8407 year to present a final paper. These E-mail: [email protected] workshops are usually held during the Web: www.aed.org/nsep third week of June. NSEP provides scholarship and Eligibility fellowship funding for those ■ Fluent in English who wish to study in the field of ■ Individuals from developing international affairs and national countries encouraged to apply security. Recipients use the funding ■ Access to e-mail for participation in a qualifying study abroad program and to study a foreign language (preferably a less commonly taught language) while overseas. The program must be at least six weeks long, but preference

53 is given to those going abroad for Emerging Leaders International an academic year. Fellowships (up Fellows Program to $10,000 for a semester and $20,000 for a year) are based on the Applicant Status: Practitioners and cost of the program. Within two years researchers under the age of 36 of graduation, NSEP fellows must Location: The City University of complete at least a year working New York at a paid position with a federal Deadline: September 30 government agency, including those Contact: at the U.S. Department of Defense. Tel: (212) 817 -2010 Fax: (212) 817 -1572 Eligibility E-mail: [email protected] ■ A U.S. citizen Web: www.philanthropy.org ■ Applying to engage in a study abroad experience that meets The Center on Philanthropy and Civil home institution standards and Society sponsors a three-month ends before graduation. program of leadership training through applied research and professional mentorships to young scholar/practitioners working in the non-governmental organization sector globally. The Center is also offering a U.S. Diversity Fellowship to young scholars and practitioners from communities of color underrepresented in the U.S. grantmaking sector and who are interested in building non-profit capacity in the United States. Fellows produce a paper on their findings, which will be presented in the seminar, attend select conferences, learn about the work of key agencies and meet with foundation and nonprofit representatives. Each fellowship covers the cost of tuition and includes a $1,300-per month stipend to cover living expenses. Housing is provided in dormitories, and roundtrip airfare provided.

54 Eligibility Freeman Awards for Study in Asia ■ Have a college or university degree ■ Speak and write English fluently Applicant Status: Undergraduate ■ Prefer strong ties to a non- college student, have at least one governmental institution and term of enrollment remaining at demonstrated research skills their home institutions following ■ Non-U.S. citizens or from a their return from study in Asia. community of color Location: East or Southeast Asia underrepresented in the Deadline: March 4, April 1, grantmaking sector in the October 15 United States Contact: Tel: (212) 984-5542 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.iie.org/Freeman-ASIA

Freeman Awards are designed to support college students with demonstrated financial need who are planning on studying overseas in East or Southeast Asia. Students are expected to share their experiences with their home campuses to encourage study abroad in Asia by others, and to spread greater understanding of Asian peoples and cultures within their home communities. The Freeman-Asia program awards $3,000 to $7,000 fellowships.

Eligibility ■ U.S. resident ■ Demonstrate a verifiable need for financial assistance to study abroad ■ Applied or have been accepted to a study abroad program that awards academic credits through the home campus or other U.S. accredited college or university. Programs must be a minimum of

55 eight weeks for a summer term, Fulbright Fellowships 10 weeks for a quarter term, and 12 weeks for a semester term Applicant Status: College senior, ■ Little or no previous experience graduate student or professional, in the country in which they plan to must hold an undergraduate degree study. Applicants must not have and cannot hold a doctorate at the spent more than four weeks in the time of the award proposed country of study within Location: Worldwide the last five years Deadline: Apply by October 21 for travel in the following academic year. Students enrolled in a U.S. academic institution at the time of application must apply through the Fulbright Program Adviser on their campus. Those not enrolled can request an application from the Institute of International Education (see contact information). Contact: Tel: (212) 883-8200 or (212) 984-5380 Fax: (212) 984-5452 Web: www.iie.org/fulbright

The Fulbright U.S. Student Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, is designed to give opportunities for personal development and international experience. Most grantees plan their own program topics and logistics. Projects may include university coursework, independent library or field research, special projects in international affairs, or a combination. Fellowships cover expenses for nine months.

Eligibility ■ Prefer higher education undertaken primarily at educational institutions in United States

56 ■ Not resided or studied in the Mickey Leland International country to which they are applying Hunger Fellows Program for more than six months ■ U.S. citizen Applicant Status: Graduate degree ■ Proficiency in the written and in a related field or equivalent spoken language of the host experience country to communicate with the Location: South Asia, Africa, Latin people and to carry out the America and Washington, DC proposed study Deadline: Application cycle is every two years For Non-U.S. citizens, confer with Contact: the Public Affairs Section at the U.S. Tel: (202) 547-7022 Embassy in your home country for Fax: (202) 547-7575 eligibility guidelines and applications. E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.hungercenter.org/ Human Rights Fellowship Program international/international.htm This two-year initiative begins with a Applicant Status: Graduate and one-year field placement in countries undergraduate students throughout the developing world. The Location: Varies following year is spent in the United Deadline: October 15 States, usually Washington, DC, Contact: at national nonprofit organizations Tel: (212) 421-5244 working on hunger and poverty policy. Fax: (212) 421-5243 The fellowship provides emerging E-mail: [email protected] leaders with a broad understanding Web: www.seedsoftolerance.org of the problem of hunger, the skills necessary to contribute to a solution, Through these fellowships, the and the personal experience. Third Millennium Foundation is Fellowships will cover expenses and seeking to develop a cadre of young training will be provided prior to the activists with solid understanding of two internships. and commitment to effectiveness in human rights. The fellowship Eligibility offers in-depth exposure to a broad ■ At least six months continuous range of perspectives, situations experience working to alleviate and experiences related to human hunger and poverty or serving rights work. The program involves within a related field in a two different internship/fellowship developing country placements, one in the home ■ May be required by their host country of the fellow and one abroad. organization to speak the language Contact the foundation for eligibility of the local community guidelines. ■ U.S. citizen

57 Rotary Foundation of Rotary acquired during their period abroad International Scholarships with the people of their home countries. Applicant Status: Completed at least two years of university ■ Academic-Year Ambassadorial coursework or equivalent Scholarships provide funding professional experience prior to for one academic year of study beginning scholarship studies; in another country. This award world peace scholars must hold is intended to help cover round- an undergraduate degree from an trip transportation, tuition, fees, accredited college or university or room and board expenses, and its international equivalent (based some educational supplies up to on a four-year curriculum) U.S.$23,000 or its equivalent. Location: Various overseas locations Deadline: Apply between January ■ Multi-Year Ambassadorial and July prior to the preferred Scholarships are for either two academic year. Please note that or three years of degree-oriented not all Rotary districts are able study in another country. A flat to offer these programs every grant of U.S.$11,000 or its year. Prospective applicants must equivalent is provided per year to contact the nearest Rotary club be applied toward the costs of a to confirm the availability of the degree program. specific options, to obtain an application and to inquire about ■ Cultural Ambassadorial local deadlines. Scholarships are for either three or Contact: six months of intensive language Tel: (847) 866-3000 study and cultural immersion in Fax: (847) 328-8554 or another country and provide funds (847) 328-8281 to cover round-trip transportation, E-mail: [email protected] language training expenses, and Web: www.rotary.org/foundation/ homestay living arrangements, educational/amb_scho/index.html not to exceed U.S.$10,000 and U.S.$17,000 respectively. Recipients are expected to be Applications will be considered for outstanding ambassadors of goodwill candidates interested in studying through appearances before Rotary Arabic, English, French, German, clubs, schools, civic organizations Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, and other forums in the host Korean, Mandarin Chinese, Polish, country, and are expected to share Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, the experiences of understanding Swahili and Swedish.

58 ■ Rotary World Peace Scholarships Thomas J. Watson Foundation offer two-year master’s-level degree programs in conflict Applicant Status: Graduating college resolution, peace studies, and seniors international relations at one of the Location: Various overseas locations seven Rotary Centers worldwide. Deadline: Varies by institution that Up to 70 scholars are selected forwards it to the foundation by each year to receive the 21-month November each year scholarships that covers tuition, Contact: school fees, transportation, room Tel: (401) 274-1952 and board, books and supplies, Fax: (401) 274-1954 and summer internship, volunteer E-mail: [email protected] or research opportunities. Web: www.watsonfellowship.org

Eligibility These fellowships are available to ■ Citizens of a country in which there graduates from select colleges and is a Rotary club universities in the United States to ■ Not a spouse or descendant of a participate in a year of independent Rotarian study and travel abroad following their graduation. The project must Additional Criteria for World Peace be one that can be pursued with Scholars independence and adaptability, and ■ Have proficiency in a second it cannot involve formal study at a language (including the language foreign institution. It must involve of the proposed host university) travel to areas where the student has ■ Possess excellent leadership skills not previously lived or studied for a ■ Demonstrate a commitment significant length of time. The award to peace and international is $21,000 for the year ($31,000 if understanding through service, traveling with a spouse or dependent academic or professional child). achievements Eligibility ■ Must be from one of the participating higher education institutions (usually 3,000 students or fewer – see its website for the listing)

59 The Back Door Guide to Short Term OTHER INTERNSHIP AND OVERSEAS Job Adventures PROGRAM LISTINGS This is an international guide to paid internships, seasonal jobs, volunteer If you have funding already to opportunities and work abroad. support your international internship or exchange or are interested in Contact: other organizations, the following Tel: (914) 260-7919 publications may help you to find a E-mail: [email protected] program that will fit your interests. Web: www.backdoorjobs.com You can also search on these websites: Directory of International ■ MIUSA’s National Clearinghouse Internships: A World of on Disability and Exchange (www. Opportunities Michigan State University’s directory miusa.org), lists a wide variety of experiential ■ Go Abroad.com (www.goabroad.com) educational opportunities abroad, ■ Institute of International Education for academic credit, pay or just for (www.iiepassport.org) experience. ■ PlanetEdu (www.planetedu.org), among others. Contact:

Tel: (517) 353-9229 Alternatives to the Peace Corps Fax: (517) 432-2650 Edited by Joan Powell, this is a guide E-mail: [email protected] to voluntary service programs, study Web: www.isp.msu.edu/ abroad opportunities and alternative InternationalInternships/index.html travel in developing countries. The publication includes a resource guide and bibliography. Global Work InterAction publishes a directory of international internship and volunteer Contact: opportunities in the international Food First Books development field. Tel: (510) 654-4400 E-mail: cdrake@foodfirst.org Contact: Web: www.foodfirst.org Tel: (202) 667-8227 Fax: (202) 667-8236 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.interaction.org

60 Institute of International Education Peterson’s Guides It publishes Academic Year Abroad It publishes several work abroad and Short-Term Study Abroad for resource books. Directory of study and internship programs Overseas Summer Jobs lists more overseas. than 50,000 jobs worldwide, and Colleges and Universities in the Contact: USA and Internships are for those IIE Books planning to study or intern in the E-mail: [email protected] United States. Web: www.iiebooks.org Contact: Tel: (800) 338-3282 or International Exchange Locator (609) 896-1800 ext. 3435 Produced by Alliance for International Fax: (609) 896-1811 Educational and Cultural Exchange E-mail: [email protected] with support from the U.S. Web: www.petersons.com Department of State, includes information on international exchange organizations and Transitions Abroad Publishing programs worldwide. The directory It publishes a magazine and a couple includes profiles on nonprofit of useful books: Work Abroad: The organizations, exchanges offered Complete Guide to Finding a Job throughout 35 U.S. federal agencies, Overseas and Alternative Travel a comprehensive listing of the Directory: The Complete Guide to U.S. Department of State’s offices Work, Study, Travel Overseas. All involved in exchange programs, are useful for individuals interested and specific program overviews of in going abroad to travel, study, exchange organizations. volunteer, teach, work or do an internship. Contact: Tel: (888) 304-9023 or Contact: (202) 293-6141 Tel/Fax: (802) 442-4827 Fax: (202) 293-6144 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.transitionsabroad.com Web: www.alliance-exchange.org

61 Vacation Work Publications International Directory of Voluntary Work, Work Your Way Around the World, and Teaching English Abroad profile hundreds of organizations seeking skilled and unskilled volunteers, teachers, and seasonal workers or other short-term job seekers.

Contact: Tel: (44-1865) 241-978 (England) E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.vacationwork.co.uk

Volunteer Vacations: Short-Term Adventures That Will Benefit You and Others Bill McMillon presents more than 500 opportunities for combining holidays and adventure in the United States and other countries, including opportunities for volunteering internationally.

Contact: Chicago Review Press Tel: (800) 888-4741 or (312) 337-0747 Fax: (312) 337-5985 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.ipgbook.com

62 Stepping Stones: Tips for Entering Your Career

“I kept trying to network with people in the field of international development, partly by setting up informational interviews. One of these informational interviews was at the World Bank. The advisor looked at my résumé and suggested I contact someone in the executive office here on a job opening she had for a research assistant.” Andrea Shettle, Deaf and attention deficit disorder, research assistant at the World Bank.

ith academic and The Society for International experiential preparation, Development (www.sidw.org, Wtips for finding a first job 202-884-8590) holds an annual in the international field are the Career Conference in Washington, DC same as for other careers. If an geared toward those just beginning internship hasn’t led you into a job, their careers in international then networking, practicing interviews development, mid-level professionals with friends or mentors, browsing job and foreign nationals. The Career search engines and classified ads, Conference includes panel discus- posting résumés online, attending sions, a recruitment area, networking employment fairs or conferences, receptions and small group workshops. researching places of interest to you Registration costs are minimal. and conducting informational inter- views can all be valuable tools to help NAFSA: Association of you get into the field. Following are International Educators (www. suggestions and resources tailored to nafsa.org, 202-737-3699) includes a job searches in the international arena. job registry component at its annual conference in which attendees can submit résumés and interview with CAREER WORKSHOPS AND EXPOS study abroad, international student The Public Policy and services or related offices during the International Affairs (PPIA) conference. Attracting thousands Program (www.ppiaprogram.org, of professionals in the international 202-496-0130) hosts free career education field from the United States fairs in two cities each fall, in and abroad, the NAFSA conference which governmental and nonprofit also includes receptions for agencies exhibit. The PPIA fairs networking, sessions for professional offer opportunities to generate job development, and opportunities for leads, and workshops featuring mentoring for newcomers to the field. young professionals and established Students’ fees are usually half the executives provide overviews of regular cost. particular fields in public service. 63 “At my first national NAFSA relief agencies, publishes a bi-weekly conference, I was encouraged newsletter, Monday Developments, to meet so many individuals which lists job postings. dedicated to promoting intercultural understanding. One important Many graduate schools in international affairs have active aspect of the conference for me student or alumni groups that can was the Student Mentor Program. provide professional development My mentor, who is the coordinator opportunities. For example, the of study abroad and international International Development Program student services at a small liberal Student Association at American arts college, offered me a lot of sage University brings professionals in the advice concerning how to manage a field to its campus for forums that one-person office and how to market are open to the public. American my skills set.” University’s School for International Allegra Johnson, arthritis, Service runs an informative listserv Master’s student in International Education, School for International Training, hired upon ([email protected]. graduation as a study abroad advisor for EDU). For people who are interested Washington State University. in international human rights, another listserv that sometimes has job postings is at (hr-professionals- ALUMNI AND PROFESSIONAL [email protected]). Gallaudet ASSOCIATIONS The majority of available jobs are never advertised, which is why it is important to be involved in professional circles that relate to what you want to do. Professional associations are great ways to stay connected, making you more privy to information about what positions are open, and familiar to potential employers. Professional associations often offer newsletters, listservs and annual conferences. For international exchange, NAFSA: Association of International Educators has an active study abroad listserv (SECUSS-L) that often posts job openings. For international development, InterAction (www. interaction.org, 202-667-8227), an organization of more than 160 US- based international development and 64 University has a listserv that is it. A woman that I didn’t know came focused on international development up to me and eventually offered ([email protected]), and the me a job; I was just being polite Peace Corps (www.peacecorps.gov) and answering questions. So when has excellent resource libraries and I speak with IIPP students, I tell networks on its website set up for them to be cognizant of how you returned volunteers to find job leads. act and who you are talking to. You never know who’s watching you. “Institute of International Public Always be professional. Have fun but Policy (IIPP) had a reception in conduct yourself in a professional Washington, DC, with people from way because you never know. the U.S. Department of State, Things happen serendipitously. I am the U.S. Department of Education speaking from my own experience.” and others. It made for a great Chris Emanuel, wheelchair user, networking session. We were there IIPP alumnus on finding his first job at the to hear different speakers and to Fulbright office. catch up with other IIPP alumni at the same time. It also provided a beautiful opportunity to network, INTERNATIONAL JOB LISTINGS IN especially if you had brought your NEWSPAPERS AND ONLINE résumés, and I took advantage of There are plenty of resources for finding job openings, such as paid online or print subscriptions and directories. For example:

■ International Jobs Directory (www. impactpublications.com, 800-361-1055) ■ International Job Finder: Where the Jobs are Worldwide (www. jobfindersonline.com, 708-366-5200) ■ International Employment Gazette (www.angelfire.com/biz/ resumestore, 800-882-9188) ■ International Employment Hotline and International Career Employment Weekly (www. internationaljobs.org, 800-291-4618)

65 For jobs in the U.S. Department “I would generally go through the of State, including its Bureau of weekly employment newspaper that Educational and Cultural Affairs, publishes job vacancies in the local visit www.state.gov/p/io/empl; in area. Another powerful medium is the the United Nations visit www.jobs. Internet. We have a website, DevNet: un.org; in international development International Development Jobs and positions visit U.S. Agency of Consultancies (www.devnetjobs. International Development (www. org), that posts job requirements in usaid.gov/careers), Relief Web the international development field (www.reliefweb.int/vacancies), The on international and national levels. Development Executive Group (www. I didn’t have trouble finding a job in developmentex.com/index.asp) or the international field. I am affected Idealist and Action without Borders by polio in my lower limbs. However, (www.idealist.org). the selection committee trusted my knowledge, experience, vision When looking for jobs, Andrea Shettle and dedication for working for the used the free online service, Change vulnerable and isolated groups in the Detection (www.ChangeDetection. community.” com/monitor.html), to be notified of Jyoti Vidhani, physical disability, Material Resources Officer, Catholic Relief changes in web pages. This helped Services, India. her keep track of new postings at organizations that interested her. In addition to using regular job search engines, or looking for job postings on websites of organizations where you want to work, the following Canadian and United Kingdom websites have international job postings: Escape Artist (www. escapeartist.com/jobs/overseas1. htm), and About Jobs (www. overseasjobs.com).

66 Stepping Stones: Mid-Career Transitions

“I was incredulous that many deaf people, especially deaf women, were kept in their homes away form their communities and that they had never ever met other deaf people like themselves. Many had never seen sign language before. I decided to quit my job and volunteer in a developing country to work to help empower Deaf communities.” Amy Wilson, professor at Gallaudet University.

CHANGING CAREER PATHS (tel/tty). Other professional Some people with disabilities find development or volunteer themselves needing to retrain or opportunities overseas are also wanting to change careers later in available via MIUSA’s international their lives, and many seek advice exchange database. on how to make inroads into the international field. The interest in the international arena comes from having been affected by an exchange experience in their former careers or personal lives; for example, a Fulbright scholarship to teach overseas, an international conference or an international volunteer experience with a program, such as Habitat for Humanity. Firsthand international experience is often an important step to making the transition into the international field.

Individuals who are using vocational rehabilitation funds in retraining for a career can use these funds to support study abroad as part of a degree program. You can find a brochure on how to continue Social Security benefits and use vocational rehabilitation funding while studying abroad on MIUSA’s website (www. miusa.org) or contact the National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange at (541) 343-1284

67 “If you are trying to change careers, then you may find it easier to ADVANCING IN THE capitalize on the skills you already INTERNATIONAL FIELD have for working in an international For those from underrepresented environment rather than to try to backgrounds in the international field, move directly to a job that requires the path to advancement may seem the background, training, skills, like a pioneering effort. experience and preparation that you don’t yet have. Once you are in the “As a person who is disabled I would right kind of setting, you can gain certainly investigate all my options. a lot of exposure to the field, and Because it’s not the easiest life in build up a network of contacts that terms of advancement in a career, may be able to lead you closer to you’ve got to have a lot of nerve, the kind of job you actually want in patience, fortitude and self-esteem.” this field…. For example, if you’ve Carol Dozeal, vision disability, been doing computer programming or worked in private and governmental sectors web development, you might want to in the United States and abroad. start with computer-related work at an international organization, even if The following programs for mid-career this isn’t really the kind of work you professionals can assist in your want to do. At the same time, you advancement efforts. Individuals may want to try pursuing a degree in who are selected receive fellowship international development by taking funding to support participation. night classes, or pursuing fluency in another language, or both. Once you Eisenhower Fellowships have an international organization on your résumé, and a little more Applicant Status: Mid-career training in the field you want, those professionals; preferred age range things may combine to get you closer of 35-42 to your ‘dream job.’” Location: In the United States and Andrea Shettle, Deaf and attention other countries deficit disorder, used her writing career Deadline: Varies; see website as entry into a research assistant position at the World Bank. Contact: Tel: (215) 546-1738 Fax: (215) 546-4567 E-mail: [email protected] Web: http://eisenhowerfellowships.org

Eisenhower Fellowships are offered to emerging leaders in fields important to the development of their own society. The four to eight

68 week programs focus on professional Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowships broadening, leadership growth and network development. Fellowships Applicant Status: Five years of cover expenses for the international substantial professional experience experience that is designed to meet Location: United States the recipient’s interests. Deadline: Varies as applications are submitted to the American embassy Eligibility or Fulbright commission in the ■ Five to ten years of demonstrated candidate’s home country exemplary leadership, as well as Contact: an expectation of at least 15-20 Institute of International Education years of higher level leadership Tel: (202) 898-0600 contributions Fax: (202) 326-7835 ■ Fluency in English sufficient E-mail: [email protected] to conduct lengthy, in-depth Web: www.iie.org/pgms/hhh discussions with professional counterparts This program, sponsored by ■ Demonstrated potential for the U.S. Department of State, advanced leadership and societal offers professional development impact through influence on key opportunities for accomplished mid- policies or in important operational level professionals from designated areas countries in Africa, Asia, the ■ Active leadership in broader Caribbean, Eurasia, Latin America professional/community activities and the Middle East. Humphrey ■ Integrity, energy, and motivation to Fellowships provide participants make a difference with a year of graduate study and ■ Breadth of perspective and professional experience in the United enthusiasm for continued learning States. In additional to attending ■ Likelihood of actively contributing a workshop in Washington, DC to to the Eisenhower network meet with leaders from the U.S. ■ Ability to design and articulate federal government, multinational appropriate fellowship program organizations and the private sector, objectives, reflecting thoughtful fellows engage in a variety of other analysis and including achievable activities, including site visits and goals and objectives workshops throughout the year.

Eligibility ■ A commitment to public service in the private and public sectors ■ An undergraduate degree ■ Demonstrated leadership qualities ■ A suitable level of English proficiency

69 International Career Advancement Eligibility Program (ICAP) ■ Be members of groups historically underrepresented in international Applicant Status: Three to fifteen affairs careers years of work experience ■ Be U.S. citizens or permanent Location: Aspen, Colorado residents Deadline: May 15 (varies each year) ■ Be professionals who have been or Contact: are now working in governmental Tel: (303) 871-2403 or non-profits offices Fax: (303) 871-2456 ■ Have demonstrated interest and E-mail: [email protected] (Dr. Thomas plans for careers in international Rowe) affairs Web: www.du.edu/~trowe/icap ■ Have credentials and achievements that demonstrate The purpose of the ICAP is to potential to serve in the highest help bring greater diversity to the levels of administration and policy staffing of senior management making and policy-making positions in ■ Have recommendations that international public service, in both indicate unusual promise for governmental and private non-profit leadership sectors. Its aim is to assist highly

promising mid-career professionals from underrepresented groups to advance to more senior positions in international affairs. ICAP brings together a small group of mid-career professionals from underrepresented groups with senior officials and policy-makers to spend one week in discussion about upcoming international issues, credentials and career patterns for achieving senior appointments, solutions to obstacles faced by minorities seeking advancement, programs or policies designed to increase diversity at senior levels, mentoring, and career planning. The program includes lectures, seminars, discussions, workshops, and informal networking. A follow-up gathering in Washington, DC occurs six months after the institute.

70 The Asia Pacific Leadership “Entering the APLP program is a Program (APLP) very good experience for me; it has widened my perspectives. Applicant Status: Early to mid-career APLP participants all have different professionals and graduate students expertise, backgrounds and Location: East West Center in attitudes. I am very curious to Honolulu, Hawaii learn to deal with a group full of Deadline: March 1 diversity. APLP participants are very Contact: broadminded and helpful. It’s a great Tel: (808) 944-7111 learning environment too.” Fax: (808) 944-7376 C. Udomporn, physical disability, E-mail: [email protected] from Thailand and interested in working Web: www.eastwestcenter.org/aplp in the future with the World Bank or non- governmental organizations. The APLP is a graduate certificate program designed to meet new educational and human resource needs during a time of increasing regional interdependence. During the institute, fellows gain a broad regional perspective, become knowledgeable about the critical challenges facing the region, and are trained to exercise collaborative leadership and promote cooperation toward the well being of the countries and peoples of the region. The fellowship includes a fully funded field study in Asia and the mainland United States.

Eligibility ■ From the Asia Pacific region and the United States ■ Meet other eligibility requirements of visas and the application

71 72 SupportSupport AAlonglong tthehe JJourneyourney

73 Support Along the Journey: Others with Disabilities Paving the Way

“My belief system is a person with a disability shouldn’t be hired to just work with disabled organizations and on disabled issues. That may be the first step, but we should branch out. And when people like Judy [Heumann at the World Bank] are appointed to lead, they can look back and say, ‘There are 100 people with disabilities now working throughout this agency.’ And that’s the key of success to me – is to see how we bring in other brothers and sisters to work in all capacities.” Don Galloway, blind, former Peace Corps country director.

ore people with disabilities saw how easy it was to make the are needed in the accommodations she needed, they Minternational affairs, began to take the initiative to ensure development and exchange fields to that they were made for others add their perspectives and voices too. They also began to think about to international organizations and the ways in which their workplace diplomatic agencies and make could be more accessible for future a difference by contributing to employees with disabilities. worldwide issues. Newcomers to the international field will need the “I was able to educate the U.S. mentoring of those with disabilities Department of State to the fact who have been in the field, and that they had to do more [targeted] who have successfully navigated recruiting to get more people with employment barriers. disabilities into the State Department ‘family.’ And that happened. It was Working in the international field a slow and steady process. But is not limited to working with they did add people with disabilities people with disabilities. Every time to their recruitment strategy businesses, communities and and established a reasonable cultures are exposed to people with accommodation process. I think disabilities who are successful in that the Department is now a more their work, their eyes are opened welcoming environment to people to new possibilities, and doors are with disabilities who are qualified for opened for others with disabilities civil service and the foreign service.” in the future. Deidre Davis found Deidre Davis, wheelchair user, former Deputy Assistant Secretary for that when she went to work for the Equal Opportunity and Civil Rights for the U.S. Department of State visiting U.S. Department of State. embassies all over the world. Her very presence made a difference in accessibility. When her colleagues

74 “If people with disabilities come “Our intern made great relationships into the foreign service, I would say with visitors and resources around it would be in their best interest our area. Her office and computer to talk to us so that they get a full knowledge has helped when we understanding of what they’re going have been short-handed. And most to be facing. There are certain things importantly, she has taught everyone they should be made aware of.” in our office, including the board Carol Doezal, vision disability, members and me, the importance of chairperson of Disabled in Foreign Affairs Agencies. incorporating people with disabilities in our international exchanges.” “When people you work with see the challenges and the obstacles that For those of you who take the you will have to go through, they “stepping stones” to build your will ask, ‘Why?’ That’s when they qualifications for an international will make the calls [to get changes career, you will benefit from the doors made].” these mentors have opened ahead Chris Emanuel, wheelchair user of you and pave the way for others to on his former employment at the Fulbright follow. office. “I would strongly recommend “I walk with a walker or use my that people with disabilities come wheelchair (a scooter) to visit the forward and spread their wings to courts with the law students in new horizons and new destinations the first week. The Americans with – with insight and dedication not Disabilities Act is an eye-opener for only to improving their own life, but the students from other countries. also the lives of others in similar It’s a good thing for them to see me conditions, seeking help and support and see that just because I can’t for change.” walk, it doesn’t impact me being able Jyoti Vidhani, physical disability, to do the work I do.” Material Resources Officer, Catholic Relief Michele Shoresman, multiple Services, India. sclerosis, Assistant Dean of Graduate and Joint Degree Programs at Washington University School of Law working with study abroad and international students.

Exchange offices can learn more about recruiting and accommodating participants with disabilities by having more people with disabilities on their staffs. As a supervisor of an intern with a disability discovered:

75 Support Along the Journey: MIUSA and the National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange obility International USA NCDE publications include: (MIUSA), a U.S. based ■ The free, award-winning annual Minternational non-profi t journal, A World Awaits You, organization, has been dedicated featuring people with disabilities to empowering people with who have successfully participated disabilitiesdisabilities aaroundround tthehe wworldorld tthroughhrough inin iinternationalnternational eexchangesxchanges internationalinternational eexchangexchange ssinceince 11981.981.

MIUSA has managed the National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange (NCDE), sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State, since NCDE’sNCDE’s iinceptionnception iinn 11995.995. TThroughhrough NCDE, MIUSA works to increase ■ Building Bridges: A Manual on the participation of people with Including People with Disabilities disabilities in the full range of in International Exchange international exchange opportunities ProgramsPrograms by providing free information and referrals to individuals and disability organizations. In addition, we work with international exchange organizations and colleges and universities so that they are better prepared to include you and others with disabilities, into their programs.

By browsing the comprehensive MIUSA website, you can obtain ■ Survival Strategies for Going additional information on MIUSA’s Abroad:Abroad: A GGuideuide fforor PPeopleeople Developing International Interests wwithith DDisabilitiesisabilities. project, search databases for exchange programs and disability organizations worldwide, submit an online request for information, learn about fi nancial aid resources and order publications. You can also use an online form to join or use our peer-to-peer network, which links individuals with disabilities from all over the world to share experiences about international exchange. 76 MIUSA conducts cross-cultural We encourage you, and all people leadership and disability rights with disabilities, to pursue your exchange programs in the U.S. international dreams, through study, and overseas, including outbound work, research, internship and exchange programs for young people voluntary service. We believe that with disabilities from the United international exchange can make States, and international leadership a difference for you, leading to programs for women with disabilities enhanced career opportunities, self- around the world. discovery and a broader worldview. We also believe that through MIUSA also works with international international involvement, you can organizations and programs – with make a difference in the world. We which you might someday choose to invite you to challenge yourself, and travel, study or work – to increase change the world!® inclusion of people with disabilities as participants, students and staff. Contact: For example: Mobility International USA Tel/TTY: (541) 343-1284 ■ We provide technical assistance Fax: (541) 343-6812 and training to international E-mail: [email protected] exchange and development Website: www.miusa.org agencies on including people with disabilities in their programs and on their staff. ■ We are building university-level knowledge in disability and international development, and working to integrate disability issues into the academic fields of international studies. n We are partnering with organizations promoting and supporting underrepresented groups to gain skills, degrees, and access to opportunities and networks necessary to enter international development, affairs and exchange careers.

77 Footnotes 1 Study Abroad Impact Outcomes Report by the British Columbia Centre for International Education (BCCIE) (www.bccie.bc.ca); Wallace, D. H., (1999) Academic study abroad: The long-term impact on alumni careers, volunteer activities, world, and personal perspectives., Doctoral Dissertation, Claremont Graduate University, Claremont, California; Akande, Yemi and Slawson, Carla. Summer 2000. Exploring the Long-term Impact of Study Abroad: A Case Study of 50 Years of Study Abroad Alumni. The International Educator. Washington, DC: NAFSA Publications; Peace Corps’ Office of Planning (1998). C. Juanita Graul. Impact of Peace Corps on RPCVs. [Thesis document]; Do US Employers Consider Overseas Study an Asset? (May 26, 2004) NAFSA: Association of International Educators conference, DAAD- German Academic Exchange Service New York, Institute of International Education, Australian Education Office, JWT Education.

Works Cited Carland, M.P. and Gihring, L.A. (Editors). (2003) Careers in International Affairs, Seventh Edition, Georgetown University Press: Washington, DC.

Lewis, Jeffrey. (March 24, 2003) APSIA Graduates find exciting careers even in tough economic times. Association of Professional Schools in International Affairs: College Park, Maryland.

Robinson, Roy. Careers in Study Abroad. Survey Summary Results. NAFSA: Association of International Educators Region XII Conference, Nov. 19, 2003.

Scheib, Michele (Editor) (December 2002). Looking Back, Looking Forward: 20 Years of People with Disabilities in International Exchange, A World Awaits You. Mobility International USA (MIUSA): Eugene, Oregon.

78 Department of State Publication Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Released December 2004 79 By using this resource, young adults with international interests can explore careers that would fulfill their aspirations. It highlightslearn different types of international occupations, job prospects, tips to prepare for an international career, insights from role models and emerging leaders with disabilities in these fields, and the international exchange and fellowship programs they participated in to get them where they are today. Look inside to find information on many activities one can participate in as stepping stones to an international career! expe“[Anr internship]ien in Costace Rica increased my desire to enter the international development field to a fevered pitch. Partly this was because I realized how much I loved this work. Anything and everything else would have seemed ‘second best’ in comparison. I realized that finding a job in the international development field would both let me follow my passion and help me manage my ADD because I was doing what I loved.” –Andrea Shettle, who is Deaf and has attention deficit disorder, works as a research assistant at the World Bank.

MOBILITY INTERNATIONAL USA National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange (NCDE)

Tel/TTY: (541) 343-1284 Fax: (541) 343-6812 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.miusa.org P.O. Box 10767 Eugene, OR 97440 USA ISBN: 1-880034-45-X

NCDE is sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State