BRIDGE internships
The BRIDGE Summer Community Engagement Internship is a short, intensive summer programme that gives you hands-on experience, the opportunity to work with local communities, and the chance to explore social challenges in Europe – all while developing valuable skills for your future.
Apply by 16 March!
What is BRIDGE?
BRIDGE is a 2–4 week summer internship where you work with a community organisation (NGO, school, cultural centre or other community hub) in a European region.
The programme is part of EMERGE, a network of universities that believes learning should be connected to real societal challenges.
This is not a typical internship:
- You don’t just 'help' – you learn alongside the local community
- Your work responds to genuine local needs
- Reflection and learning are just as important as practical experience
Which internships are available?
Summer camp for children with serious illnesses in Barretstown, Ireland
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Land art and environmental conservation in Zvolen, Slovakia
Community engagement and democracy in Banská Bystrica, Slovakia
Why should I apply?
Because BRIDGE gives you:
- International experience in a real local community
- Practical skills you won’t learn in a classroom
- Intercultural competence and experience of teamwork
- Insight into social justice, inclusion and civic engagement
- A strong addition to your CV and future career prospects
And yes – the programme is supported by Erasmus+ funding: €1,471 per student for Slovakia, and €1,639 per student for Ireland!
What will I actually do?
Depending on your placement, you may:
- Support local community projects and initiatives
- Work with young people, migrants, older people or other residents
- Contribute to education, communication, research or events
- Co-create solutions together with local partners
You will never be left on your own – you will have:
- A local supervisor at your placement
- An academic supervisor from your university
How long does the internship last?
- 2–4 weeks during the summer
- Online preparation before departure
- Reflection after returning home
Short. Intensive. Meaningful.
How to apply
All students at an EMERGE partner university can apply, including all students at INN University. No prior experience in community engagement is required – just motivation to learn and contribute.
There are a limited number of places for each internship, so apply early!
Application deadline: 16 March
How is it funded?
- The internships are mainly financed through Erasmus+ mobility grants.
- The support covers travel and living expenses.
€1,471 per student for Slovakia, and €1,639 per student for Ireland!
What will I gain from it?
When you complete BRIDGE, you will have:
- Hands-on experience from fieldwork
- Improved communication and teamwork skills
- Greater social awareness
- International contacts and friendships
- A clearer understanding of how your studies connect to society
If you want a summer experience that truly makes a difference – this is for you.
Information meeting
Prior to the internships, a joint information meeting was held across the EMERGE institutions. This is a part of the preperations before traveling.
The meeting was held on Zoom but was recorded.
Passcode: e61=&3TN
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