Designed in 2001 by Professors Beth Lyon of the Villanova Law School Clinics and Mercedes Juliá, Professor of Spanish of the Department of Romance Languages, the Spanish Internship offers a unique experience to students interested in helping the Hispanic Community by translating and interpreting for student lawyers. The program is very much at the core of what Villanova University is all about: learning while also giving of yourselves to others. Many students have participated in the Internship Program during these past years and have found the experience very worthwhile and stimulating.
Internship Goals
To help students become fluent in Spanish, by translating and interpreting for student lawyers, while helping members of the Philadelphia Hispanic Community.
To express publicly, through service and scholarship the Villanova University's commitment to promoting social justice and the common good for 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: "The Lord hear the cry of the poor."
Internship Details
The Spanish Internship Program maintains the academic integrity of the Liberal Arts and Sciences curriculum through careful planning and by providing uniform requirements and careful supervision.
Internship participants with Dr.Adriana Merino
"This internship has been one of the most satisfying experiences at Villanova. It exposed me not only to the workings of a Law Clinic, but also it allowed me to have a first-hand view of immigration issues . This internship is perfect for students interested in Law or interested in Social Justice. As an interpreter, you work closely translating between student-attorneys and their clients. You meet clients from many different backgrounds; their stories are heartbreaking and harrowing and your life is put into perspective after you realize what people's lives are like. It's almost unbelievable to think that there are such injustices happening so close to our comfortable Villanova. You leave this internship with a lot more than just credits on your transcript. You leave with a new understanding of immigration issues, a greater proficiency in conversational Spanish, a new knowledge of Spanish legal terms, and a fresh perspective on life." --Beatriz Argentina Iniguez
Internship FAQs
Who is eligible to apply for the program?
Undergraduate students, with advanced Spanish language proficiency, juniors or seniors, matriculated in Villanova University, and with a grade point average of at least 3.0
Can I intern more than once?
A student might accumulate a total of (15) academic credits on their transcript, making it possible over a four semester period and a summer to have more than one internship experience. It is recommended, however, not to repeat the same internship. The Spanish Internship will count (3 credits) towards the Spanish Major and/or Minor. Repeats will count only as electives.
How do I earn academic credit for my field of work?
You will be granted three credits in Spanish upon satisfactory completion of the program requirements. These credits are course equivalent and can be part of the courses toward your minor or major in Spanish. The course will appear on your transcript. You need not make up additional courses to graduate. Internships are graded S/U
What are the benefits of this program?
The Spanish Internship allows students with excellent command of Spanish to use it in the Community, while gaining professional experience. Besides personal growth, students gain professional work experience and acquire valuable job contacts.
How do I apply for the Spanish internship?
You need to contact Dr. Julio Villa-García, who is the current director of the program, and make an appointment. The director will assess your language proficiency and determine whether you qualify for the program. The Director will give you the application form and will provide guidance regarding the process. See below for an 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: julio.villa-garcia@villanova.edu
