Course: The MIT-Chile/Peru/Argentina programs now require students to take at least one course on Latin America culture, history, and or politics. Students unable to enroll in a course must complete an 3-credit independent project on a theme of their choice. Students doing a project will meet at least twice with a MISTI-designated faculty member.
WHERE ARE THE INTERNSHIPS LOCATED? Universities, research centers, companies, start-ups, government offices, NGOs, etc. Most student internships and short-term research projects take place in capital cities Santiago, Lima and Buenos Aires, though opportunities exist throughout each country.
HOW CAN I FIND OUT ABOUT INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES?
Make an appointment with the Program Manager through the application portal or by email
Do a Google Search! Use key words in English and Spanish (e.g. engineering/ingeniería, wave energy/energía undimotriz, entrepreneurship/emprendimiento)
WHAT APPLICATION MATERIALS ARE REQUIRED? All materials (including recommendation requests) are submitted through the MISTI application portal.
General MISTI application
Country-specific application
CV/résumé
Letter of interest (English or Spanish)
Two letters of recommendation; one must be from MIT
Most recent transcript and/or list of current courses (Freshmen: just list current courses)
WHAT IS THE APPLICATION DEADLINE AND PLACEMENT TIMELINE? The MIT-Chile/Peru/Argentina programs offer two ways to apply:
Early Action (November 1): This option is for you if you are sure early in the semester about where you want to go and have a solid idea of what you want to do. The Program Manager will work with you to confirm placements by the end of December or January.
Standard (December 31): Program Manager will work with you to confirm placements by the end of March.
DO I HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL DECEMBER 31 IF I MISSED THE NOVEMBER 1 DEADLINE? No. You can submit the application anytime before December 31 through the MISTI application portal.
CAN I STILL APPLY IF I MISS THE DECEMBER 31 DEADLINE? Yes, though opportunities and funding may be limited.
I'VE MET WITH THE PROGRAM MANAGER AND HAVE A LIST OF HOST PREFERENCES. NOW WHAT? While all MISTI country programs have almost the same requirements in terms of language (in non-English speaking countries), GPA and application materials, the placement process varies. This is due to country context (cultural considerations, holiday/vacation periods), funding and available opportunities.
The MIT-Chile/Peru/Argentina Program Manager typically works one-on-one with students to create a tailored experience, though some hosts provide a more standard "job description" or opening to which students will apply. Most students join a project that is already underway at the host organization, though some start a project from scratch with their supervisor.
After the initial meeting during which students discuss their interests with the Program Manager, students should make list of potential hosts in order of preference. Once all materials are submitted, the Program Manager typically contacts the first-choice host, sending materials like the CV and interest letter/recommendations in some cases and describing his/her skills. The Program Manager requests a Skype or telephone meeting between the host and student; these often are conducted in Spanish. Afterward both parties give feedback to the Program Manager and if both are satisfied and enthusiastic, the placement is made.
Students MUST attend a series of MISTI and country-specific training sessions during the Spring semester prior to departure. These sessions cover logistics, health and safety/security in addition to history, politics and culture of the country and region.
HOW LONG IS THE INTERNSHIP? 10-12 weeks (majority) during the North American summer; limited opportunities during IAP. Most students depart to South America the first week of June and stay through mid-late August. The exact dates will depend on the internship host and project.
WHAT IS THE COST? Internships are cost-neutral to you. You will receive funds that will cover: RT airfare from the US, accommodation, and a modest living expense for local transport, food and incidentals.
WHERE WILL I LIVE? Several options (e.g. home stay, apartment with other MISTI students, apartment with local roommates, etc.) The Program Manager will provide you with resources and help you choose.
WHY DON'T I SEE AN ARGENTINA-SPECIFIC APPLICATION? MISTI Argentina initiatives are currently in pilot status, though opportunities for internships do exist. Contact the Program Manager for more information.