Interns in South India have the opportunity to gain practical experience in their field along with the unforgettable experience of a cultural immersion program.

Women's Empowerment

ELI works with several organizations in Chennai devoted to empowering marginalized women. The organizations have evolved from relief/welfare organizations to organizations emphasizing empowerment through development and capacity building. Interns can get involved in projects in their particular field of interest. Participants will learn about the processes of mobilizing self help groups, fieldwork, documentation, and the challenges many women face everyday. The organizations also operate shelters for abused women. Interns and volunteers are encouraged to spend time with the women in the shelters in order to gain a more personal understanding of the women.

Medical and Health

ELI works with charitable hospitals in Chennai and Madurai to create unique internships designed for pre-med students. Interns have the opportunity to shadow doctors and nurses, observe diagnosis and treatments, and learn firsthand about the day to day practice of medicine in India. Interns will not have medical responsibilities but may be asked to assist with some tasks if the staff feels the participant is capapble. Participants may also have the opportunity to participate in health outreach activities such as health camps and health education programs in poor neighborhoods.

Journalism

Since English is one of the official languages in India, many publications are printed in English. ELI can place Interns with a genuine interest in media with a variety of publications. The placements are made on a very individual basis. In the past we have worked with newspapers, newsmagazines, entertainment magazines, and other monthly, weekly and daily publications. Participants must have a demonstrated interest in working in the field of journalism and be creative self starters. Participants will have the opportunity to experience work in a busy editorial office and have the opportunity to gain experience in editing, marketing, advertising, or printing. Please note that these internships are created on a completely individual basis.