
The Douglass-O'Connell Global Internship
About the Fellowship
For the 2024 Douglass-O'Connell Global Internship (formerly known as the Frederick Douglass Global Fellowship), 10 exceptional student leaders will be selected for a transformative summer internship program in Dublin, Ireland, where they will draw inspiration from the legacies of two remarkable social justice leaders: Frederick Douglass and Daniel O'Connell.
During this unique eight-week program, Douglass-O’Connell Global Interns will spend June 14 to August 10, 2024 participating in a work placement in an Irish organization and receiving academic credit in Irish history and culture with a special exploration of the influence Daniel O’Connell had on Frederick Douglass and their lifetime legacies as successful businessmen and leaders of social change.
The program pays tribute to Frederick Douglass’ transformative experience visiting Ireland more than 175 years ago, when Douglass was embraced by the Irish people and met the famous Irish reformer, Daniel O’Connell. This immersive opportunity celebrates their exceptional contributions to society and their notable business acumen, inspiring young professionals to emulate their success and apply their principles in the modern world. Co-sponsored by CIEE, the Government of Ireland, and the African American Irish Diaspora Network, the program pays homage to these distinguished figures by integrating the values of equality, entrepreneurship, and advocacy into a dynamic and educational internship experience.
Students seeking a rich international experience that combines real-world work experience in Ireland with an exciting overview of Irish history and culture are encouraged to apply. Join us in Dublin for a summer of growth, learning, and the pursuit of a better, more inclusive world.
The Journey
Just as Frederick Douglass was transformed by his time in Ireland, Douglass-O'Connell Interns return home from abroad transformed, inspired, and prepared to change our world for the better.
How to Apply
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-eligible preferred (not required)
- Submit a complete application no later than February 1, 2024
- 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 course on Irish History and Culture.
- The Douglass-O'Connell Global Internship is fully-sponsored by CIEE, the Government of Ireland, and the African American Irish Diaspora Network.
- Ten (10) students will be selected.
- Douglass-O’Connell Global Interns will be selected based on their demonstrated interest in gaining real-world 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?
The 2024 Douglass-O’Connell Global Interns will receive academic credit in Irish history and culture with a special exploration of the influence Daniel O’Connell had on Frederick Douglass and their lifetime legacies as successful businessmen and leaders of social change. In addition to this course, Douglass-O’Connell Global Interns will participate in a fully immersive internship at an Irish organization.
Where will the Douglass-O’Connell Global Interns study?
The 2024 Douglass-O’Connell Global Interns will spend eight weeks in Dublin, Ireland.
What are the dates of the program?
The 2024 cohort will study from June 14, 2024 to August 10, 2024.
Is the Douglass-O’Connell Global Internship a full scholarship?
Co-sponsored by CIEE, the Government of Ireland, and the African American Irish Diaspora Network, 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.
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-eligible
- Submit a complete application no later than February 1, 2024
How do I apply?
Applications open November 1, 2023 and are due by February 1, 2024.
What should I know about the application?
You must complete the application by February 1, 2024. 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 Douglass-O'Connell Scholars Grant that they may use for a 2024 or 2025 CIEE Summer Global Internship program.
When is the application due?
Completed applications must be submitted by February 1, 2024. 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?
March 1, 2024
Where can I find more information?
- Visit our website: www.ciee.org/fddo
- Follows us on Instagram: @ciee_fddo
- Email us with your questions: fddo@ciee.org
Follow @ciee_fddo
This grant is awarded to all qualified applicants who apply for the Douglass-O'Connell Global Internship but are not selected for the program. Qualified applicants get $1,500 toward a CIEE Summer Global Internship.
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