FAQ
Did you check our FAQ for Summer 2011 Internships?
1) I can’t make it to any info sessions. What should I do? I am still very interested in learning about this program.
The information sessions give an overview of the AIESEC structure and process. Because AIESEC’s system is unique, we would like all applicants to be familiar with the Global Internship Program, AIESEC and Project Genesis before applying. If you are unable to attend an information session, please email us. If there are many people who cannot make the established information sessions, we will hold simply hold more so that you can come. In the past, we also arranged phone calls with those who absolutely could not make the information sessions.
2) I have a specific preference in mind as to when I leave, when I come back, and where I go. Can Project Genesis accommodate this?
Because new internships are uploaded to the system (myaiesec.net – an internal database that accepted exchange participants will have access to) constantly, you will have a wide variety of options. And the more options you have, the more you are able to find the internship that best suits your needs and preferences. However, it is very important to be flexible and open-minded as well. Whether Project Genesis can accommodate specific preferences is really up to you. In the past, we had an applicant who did not pass the application process due to her restricted schedule. But we have also had an applicant who worked against a really tight timeline (one week) and was able to match to an internship and finalize details within that time period. If you are willing to put in the work and effort to make your preferences work, then Project Genesis will support you.
3) Whats the difference between Project Genesis and the general stream of AIESEC’s Global Internship Program?
Project Genesis is a stream under AIESEC’s Global Internship Program. It is exactly the same as the GIP, except that Genesis focuses exclusively on the issue of HIV/AIDS. Plus locally we’ve put together an all-in-one package that’ll enhance your internship experience. We’ll be helping you get practical training before you g, we’ll also be helping you with fundraising ideas. The Projects Team will be your support network; we’ll be making sure you’ll have a fun and engaging issue-based AIESEC experience.
4) Can I apply to Project Genesis and if I change my mind, can I switch over to the general stream of the Global Internship Program?
No. Project Genesis is a separate and specialized stream from the general Global Internship Program. We ask that you make a decision by the time you enter Review Board, which is the last step of the application process.
5) What makes AIESEC’s program different from other volunteer/work abroad programs?
AIESEC’s program gives each exchange participant the freedom and flexibility to create a unique internship experience to suit individual preferences. All AIESEC local committees are responsible for raising internship opportunities in their own city. Thus an AIESEC exchange participant has access to the pool of internships raised from AIESEC chapters all around the world. For example, lets say there are 20 exchange participants in each recruitment round. Although the 20 will attend the same pre-internship training sessions at AIESEC UBC, each person from the cohort of 20 will most likely end up in a different internship. Besides the freedom and flexibility, AIESEC internships are created locally and take place at a local, on-the-ground organization. This contrasts with other volunteer/work abroad programs where you work for an external organization who comes into the country to do development work then leaves. To top it off, AIESEC’s internships are usually cheaper.
6) Can I still apply if I am not a UBC student?
AIESEC’s internship program, including Project Genesis, is open to all university students as well as those who have graduated within 2 years.
7) What kind of resources or support do I have as a Project Genesis exchange participant?
AIESEC UBC will support you in your entire pre-internship journey. When you are on your internship, the local AIESEC committee will be there to support you. In many cases, the local committees at the city/town of your internship will pick you up from the airport and help you find accommodation and act as a social network for you.
