Robert Bland, Junior, International Affairs and Economics

Who is your employer?

Centro Cultural Peruano Norteamericano
Arequipa, Peru

How did you learn about your internship?

I learned about this internship from a newsletter email sent out to all the International Affairs students. The email led to a meeting about the internship, and from there I applied.

What was the application process like?

The application process was sending a cover letter and resume to the head of EducationUSA at the Cultural Center. After he gave initial approval a second interview through Georgia Tech was conducted. From there I was accepted. 100 hours of TESOL were also required before being able to work.

What were your major tasks or projects at this internship?

For the internship I am in charge of the cultural club classes. In it, I prepare English conversation classes centered on American culture. I prepare the lessons, deal with scheduling, and work approximately 8 hours a day.

Do you have any recommendations for Georgia Tech students looking to intern in the same company or country?

My recommendations would be to start preparing as soon as you can. The TESOL certificate takes time to complete and the trip is much better the more prepared you are. Secondly, make sure you are comfortable living in a very different culture from America. Finally, this internship allows you to leave your comfort zone and experience a unique country: be open minded.

Where did you live? Did you find accomodations independently or with your company's help?

Did you find accommodations independently or with your company's help? I live in an apartment that was found by the worker from EducationUSA.

How has this internship influenced your career path?

Through this internship I have learned a great deal about living completely independently, about being on the other end of teaching, and learned how to better articulate my words. Even though I do not believe teaching will be my career path, I believe the experience has been undeniably for the better.

If paid, did the company you worked for pay you enough to live off of your salary or stipend, or did you have to supplement your income with personal funds?

I am paid a one once a month salary of ~ S/ 2,200 or approximately $700.My rent is around S/ 450 a month, with groceries and food at around S/ 200-250. The salary is sufficient to live off of.