Summer Research Service Learning Abroad Program

This program provides a unique hands-on, international learning experience that combines research and service- learning. Students who participate in this program will build career and research skills, and network with international organizations. Program participants are eligible to apply for an Office of Study Abroad scholarship to offset a portion of the program costs. Students with a strong desire to pursue research centered careers at the doctoral level are strongly encouraged to apply. Students without prior research experience, first-generation college students, and students from underrepresented and underserved populations are strongly encouraged to apply.

Summer 2023 Location - Limerick, Ireland

About Limerick*

As Ireland's third-largest city, Limerick is alive with excitement and entertainment. At the heart of Ireland's Midwest region, Limerick offers a dynamic mix of modern city life and fascinating medieval treasures. Sports enthusiasts and music lovers will find endless entertainment in Limerick’s sporting events and pub scene, while history buffs will marvel at the city’s ancient churches and castles.

Ireland offers unique host organizations and is a great location for Service-Learning participants interested in learning more about a variety of areas, including community development, social work, and family and youth services. Whether participating in Service-Learning full-time or serving during your semester abroad, you’re sure to feel at home in Limerick’s welcoming community.

*From the ISA website: https://service-learning.studiesabroad.com/europe/limerick-ireland/

Dates: This is a 6-week program, which runs from June 15 - July 30, 2023

Please contact the Office for URaCE for program cost.

Focus Areas – Choose One

1. Youth Service Center-Family and Youth Development

This Youth Service Center provides youth with work, education, training & employability projects. They support a number of diverse youth work projects including international youth work. The organization enhances the civic, educational, personal, and social development of young people with programs focusing on a broad range of topics from leadership skills, animal welfare, and web safety to creative arts, music, and sports. A participant in this role may be involved with group study sessions, arts, teaching, and a limited amount of administrative work

2. Community Development

Founded in 2008, this community center provides an open and safe space for the local community. Through their youth programs, café, community garden, and sports hall, they seek to develop educational, recreational, and social opportunities in a healthy environment. They also provide office space and computer rooms for community-based organizations. Participants would support the center's youth projects, which include activity-based clubs, skills workshops, and summer camps.

Eligibility

Student Applicants must:

• Be current, degree seeking undergraduate students in good academic standing.
• Must have a minimum GPA of 2.5.
• Successfully complete all application steps listed below.

Application Process

Before You Apply:

• Make certain you meet the eligibility requirements listed above.
• Review and select one of the three focus areas listed above.

Application Materials

Save application materials (items 1 and 2 below) as PDF or Microsoft Word files. You will submit your statement, and CV or resume with the electronic application.

1. Statement of Interest. Submitted with the e-application form.
   The statement should address the 4 items listed below.
   • Background Information: Include your major, academic interests, extra/co-curricular activities, involvement in clubs and organizations, and any other non-academic information or accomplishments you wish to share.
   • Why do you want to participate in this program, and how do you see your participation “fitting in” with current and future academic and professional goals?
   • What can you contribute to this program? Describe your skills relevant to this experience. For example, you may address your time-management, communication, or organizational skills.
   • Explain why you selected your preferred focus area ( from the three choices above), and what you would like to learn about this area and location during the service-learning experience in Limerick.
2. A copy of your CV or Resume. Submitted with the e-application form.

Application Process

1. Review the program eligibility and responsibilities.
2. Submit the program application form. 
3. Meet with the UTC Study Abroad research internship program coordinator to discuss the application process, funding opportunities, and program responsibilities.  Once you submit an application you will be contacted to schedule a meeting.
4. Complete the program interview with UTC internship directors.
5. Submit the UTC Office of Study Abroad virtual abroad application. NOTE: Students selected to participate in the program will receive the SA application link via e-mail once steps 1-4 above have been completed.

Note: Students selected to participate in this program must complete Office for URaCE pre-internship training via Canvas in May 2023. Participants must also attend an in-person orientation meeting in late April or early May. Before you apply make sure you are available to dedicate time to this program in May.

Application deadline: 11pm Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023

Participant Responsibilities

Prior to Departure (May)

• Participate in program meetings and events on campus.
• Attend in-person program orientation.
• Complete pre- experience training via Canvas.
• Attend check in meetings with Office for URaCE program coordinators.
• Complete all ISA pre-departure training and attend meetings as assigned.
• Other items as assigned.

During the Experience in Limerick

• Follow UTC policies and code of conduct.
• Follow ISA Study Abroad policies and code of conduct.
• Successfully fulfill all responsibilities and requirements of the research service-learning experience.
• Complete up to 25 hours per week at the service-learning site location in Limerick.
• Attend check in meetings with Office for URaCE program coordinators.

At the Conclusion of the Experience in Limerick

1. Submit post-experience materials to the Office for URaCE.
2. Prepare a presentation about your experience for the virtual UTC Fall Research Conference (Fall, 2023)
3. Complete Office of Study Abroad Post-Study Abroad Scholarship Requirements.

Questions? Contact us ([email protected])