Initially created in September 2011 through a joint venture between the College of Engineering and the French and Francophone Studies program in the Department of Romance Languages, internships in FFS now offer students several opportunities to contribute in meaningful ways to the Francophone (French-speaking) world. The program is very much at the core of what Villanova University is all about: learning while also giving of yourselves to others.
Internship Details
Offered each semester, internship possibilities include engaging far-away communities in Francophone countries via technology, or assisting communities of Francophone residents more locally, in the Philadelphia area. Please see the Internship program director early each semester for specific information about the internships available the following semester.
Internship Goals
To help students become fluent in French, through further exposure to the French-speaking world, while helping communities in Francophone countries.
To express publicly, through service and scholarship, Villanova University's commitment to promoting social justice and the common good of all.
To serve the poor and marginalized members of the community through service and scholarship in recognition of the words of St. Thomas of Villanova, to "hear the cry of the poor."
Internship Requirements
In order to receive course credit for the internship, students must meet all of the College of Arts & Sciences' requirements.
Interested students should visit the Internship web pages of the Office of Undergraduate Students, and familiarize themselves with the application process and General Policies and they should download and complete the relevant forms.
Note: Students pursing an internship in French must complete all forms in French: not only their academic paper or project, but also their Activity Log form and their Internship Evaluation, and these documents should be submitted electronically to the Internship director in addition to being sent to the Office for Undergraduate Students according to that office's deadlines.
- A completed application for internship credits, submitted to the College of Arts & Sciences Internship Director;
- A completed course registration form (an “add slip”), signed by the student and the coordinator of French and Francophone Studies, which will allow the student to register for the internship credits. This form is available in the main office of the Department of Romance Languages, but will only be signed once the rest of the application for internship credits has been processed.
FFS Academic Requirements
In addition to producing all work in French, the French and Francophone Studies program requires that, in order to receive internship credit, you must:
- Attend all seminars as required by the Internship Program Office;
- Complete any other requirements as specified by the Internship Program Office;
- Complete a “Learning Goals” statement about the internship experience (in French);
- Keep a weekly log of internship activities (in French);
- Submit the required materials and documentation directly to the Internship Office (with cc: to your Internship Director) by the last day of class for the semester.
Internship FAQs
Who is eligible to apply for the program?
Undergraduate students, with advanced French language proficiency, matriculated in Villanova University, and with a grade point average of at least 3.0. Preference is given to students with senior standing, and in particular to those who have studied in a French-speaking country for at least a semester.
How do I earn academic credit for my field of work?
You will be granted three credits in French upon satisfactory completion of the program requirements. The French Internship will count as three (3) credits (the equivalent of one course) towards the Major or Minor in French and Francophone Studies. The course will appear on your transcript as FRE 2993. You need not make up additional courses to graduate. Internships are graded S/U.
What are the benefits of this program?
The French Internship allows students with excellent command of French to apply it where it is most needed, while gaining valuable professional experience. Besides personal growth, students gain professional work experience in translation, knowledge of the issues currently facing the francophone world, and a strong sense of having made the world a better place.
How do I apply for the French internship?
You need to contact the current director of the program, and make an appointment. The director will assess your language proficiency, determine whether you qualify for the program, give you the application form and provide guidance during the process. See below for application form.
Are there deadlines?
Normally one registers for the Internship as with any other course. However, the application process should be undertaken as early in the previous semester as possible.
Whom do I contact for more information?
To learn more please contact: beatrice.waggaman@villanova.edu
