Job Discussion Forums

srp · Joined: 04 Dec 2004 Posts: 30 Location: Buenos Aires

I know this isn't related to ESL, but does anyone know anything about getting internships or volunteer positions in Latin America (specifically, I'm hoping to go to Argentina or possibly Chile)? I've found some placement agencies online that claim to set you up with an internship before you get there (obviously for a fee), but I'm not really sure how trustworthy or efficient these are. My other option as I see it would be to just go there and ask around and hope someone has something for me to do. Does anyone know anything about the credibility of these agencies or have any other recommendations about how to go about finding an internship or volunteer position? Thanks for your help.

Justin Trullinger · Posted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 7:05 pm Post subject:

Hmm...can't help with Chile or Argentina. Try contacting volunteer organisations in those countries directly, it may be cheaper than agencies.
By the way, what are you interested in doing? Teaching internship, community education, sex ed, working with disadvantaged children, human rights? Be specific and maybe people may know more.
Or if you think you might be interested in Ecuador, send me a message. I might be able to help.

amy1982 · Joined: 09 Dec 2004 Posts: 192 Location: Buenos Aires

i'm guessing that if you show up anywhere offering your time for free, someone will find something for you to do. not sure what you are specifically interested in, but i know they have a lot of social programs that are always looking for more ideas/help/funds/etc.

in argentina, check w/ the big universities (esp UBA). like here, a lot of the professors are doing research. i had one that heads up a UN sponsored program for helping "at-risk" kids, particularly those that have already committed (minor) crimes... he even offered me acceptance into the grad program if i was able to stay in argentina to work with him. (unfortunately i couldn't at the time and he is in costa rica now, but there must be other people and opportunities around - especially if you want to volunteer). could you have one of the agencies help you out later if you aren't able to find something?

moonraven · Joined: 24 Mar 2004 Posts: 3094

A lot of volunteer organizations post openings on the TEFL job sites. I would start with those.