Engaged Learning Component

Engaged learning provides students with practical experience in the use of the foreign language and the opportunity to develop cultural competence under the supervision of practicing Sponsors in different professional fields. It affords experiences that will help students attain beginning professional competence and develop self-confidence. It offers students the opportunity to test their aptitude and commitment to a field of professional activity and help clarify future career goals.

Examples of in which students may be involved

• Rendering translating and/or interpreting services.
• Assisting in community outreach or service program.
• Assisting in the planning, development, and evaluation of materials and programs.
• Participating in training programs and staff meetings.
• Observing and studying the organization and management of the Sponsor, paying special attention to the techniques of administration it employs in providing goods and services to its public.
• Assisting other professionals in achieving the Sponsor’s goals.
• Preparing, editing, and presenting information for the media; assisting in public relations and informational campaigns.
• Sitting in on meetings; conducting intakes and interviews; managing casework.
• Developing pamphlets, exhibits, posters, or library resources; preparing newsletters, brochures, or information packets addressing Sponsor’s activities.
• Participating in fund raising, membership drives, and proposal writing activities.
• Assisting with networking, referral, and inter-agency coordination of activities.
• Assisting with needs assessment; proposing plans, programs, and actions for addressing identified needs.

Placement with a Sponsor

To be eligible to begin an internship, student first must be accepted into the MA, and complete an application form (Appendix A) before registering for an internship.

Each student will meet with the Director of Graduate Studies to discuss the possible placement sites for the internship and the selection of a faculty member to serve as faculty supervisor. The placement will be
determined by the Sponsor’s needs, the student’s professional interests and goals, and the advisor’s assessment of student’s potential to be a successful intern. Students must come to the meeting prepared to discuss the professional area(s) in which they are most interested and the type of Sponsor for which they most wish to work. The acceptance of an intern candidate is solely at the discretion of the Sponsor.