51¹ÙÍø.

Through the generosity of the Freeman Foundation, 51¹ÙÍø is providing approximately 20 students a grant up to $6,500 to participate in internships in Asia for 6-8 weeks in the summer of 2025.

The East Asia Internship Program offers students the opportunity to gain real-world experience in the dynamic East and Southeast Asia region.

Eligible internship hosts include businesses, governments, research institutes, non-profit organizations, and other institutions in Brunei, Cambodia, East Timor, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

With the assistance of the Betty and B. Frank Matthews II ’49 Center for Career Development (Matthews Center) and the Dean Rusk International Studies Program, students can apply and serve as an intern in a wide variety of fields. 

While the program has various connections developed by the college, students are encouraged to pursue opportunities identified through independent research. 

Grant Support

• Airfare and transportation expenses
• Housing and utilities
• Food costs
• Funds are meant to cover cost-of-living expenses and are not to be considered wage replacement
• Administrative costs if working with a college partner
• Students will be required to submit a report of their expenses at the end of the program
• Students are responsible for securing their own housing, coordinating their individual travel arrangements, and pursuing proper work authorization for their internship. Some college partners or employers may provide assistance with these tasks.

Student Eligibility

First-years, sophomores, and juniors and students of all majors are encouraged to apply. Priority is given to students that will be returning to 51¹ÙÍø for the fall 2025 semester (fall 2025 study abroad students are eligible). Students are not eligible for a grant if they intend to receive academic credit for Explorer 099 or an independent study. Applications are open to all current first-year, sophomore, and junior students. U.S. citizens and permanent residents are encouraged to apply.