The Douglass-O'Connell Global Internship

Douglass-O'Connell Global Internship Applicants Must:

• Be a current undergraduate freshman, sophomore, or junior from an accredited institution
• Have a minimum GPA of 3.0
• Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or permanent resident
• Be Pell Grant-eligible
• Submit a complete application no later than January 9, 2026
   

• The Douglass-O'Connell Global Internship is a transformative eight-week summer internship program taking place in Dublin, Ireland that includes an immersive work placement and an academic internship course.
• The Douglass-O'Connell Global Internship is fully-sponsored by CIEE, the Government of Ireland, the African American Irish Diaspora Network, and the John & Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation.
• Ten (10) students will be selected.
• Douglass-O’Connell Global Interns will be selected based on their demonstrated interest in gaining practical work experience in Ireland; their desire to emulate the business acumen and social justice reform of Frederick Douglass and Daniel O’Connell; their values in equality, entrepreneurship, and advocacy; and their commitment to pursuing a better, more inclusive world.
• During the program, Douglass-O’Connell Global Interns commit to completing all required academic coursework, fully immersing themselves in their Irish work placement, attending all activities, and actively engaging with instructors and peers throughout the program. 

After the program, Douglass-O’Connell Global Interns commit to sharing their international internship experience with their campus community to promote the power of international education and encourage peers to study or intern abroad.

What will the Douglass-O’Connell Global Interns study?

While on the program, the 2026 Douglass-O’Connell Global Interns will be placed in an immersive internship with an Irish organization and participate in a 6-credit academic internship seminar. Students will also explore the legacies of Frederick Douglass and Daniel O’Connell as successful businessmen and leaders of social change. 

Where will the Douglass-O’Connell Global Interns study?

The 2026 Douglass-O’Connell Global Interns will spend eight weeks in Dublin, Ireland.

What are the dates of the program?

The 2026 cohort will study from June 12 to August 9, 2026.

Is the Douglass-O’Connell Global Internship a full scholarship?

Co-sponsored by CIEE, the Government of Ireland, the African American Irish Diaspora Network, and the John & Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation, the program award covers the full program cost, airfare, housing, field trips, and an academic course taught by CIEE. Meals and recreational activities are not covered. Students will also receive a stipend while on the program.

Who is eligible for the Douglass-O’Connell Global Internship?

Applicants must:

• Be a current undergraduate freshman, sophomore, or junior from an accredited institution
• Have a minimum GPA of 3.0
• Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or permanent resident
• Be Pell Grant-eligible
• Submit a complete application no later than January 9, 2026

How do I apply?

Applications open on August 28, 2025, and close on January 9, 2026. Submit your application here.

What should I know about the application? 

You must complete the application by January 9, 2026. We suggest that you request your letter of recommendation well in advance of the deadline. You must secure this recommendation from a college/university president, faculty member, or administrator who is familiar with you and your leadership skills. Additionally, we suggest you complete your video submission early, as it is a critical component of the selection process.

How many students will be selected for the Douglass-O’Connell Global Internship?

Ten (10) students will be selected.

Is the Douglass-O’Connell Global Internship competitive?

Yes, the Douglass-O’Connell Global Internship is a competitive program, but it is a one-of-a-kind transformative experience for exceptional students. If you’re not selected for the program, all eligible applicants receive a $1,500 Douglass-O'Connell Scholars Grant that they may use for any CIEE summer or semester program through summer 2027.

When is the application due?

Completed applications must be submitted by January 9, 2026. Late applications will not be considered for any reason and all application tasks must be finished in their entirety.  

When will the selection of the Douglass-O’Connell Global Interns be announced?

Late January

Where can I find more information?

1. Follow us on Instagram: @ciee_fddo
2. Email us with your questions: fddo@ciee.org