“I wanted to participate in a project that allowed me to think critically about labor in the Latin American context,” Luke shares. “I was eager to connect academic insights with real-world community projects, and this internship through Roots gave me that opportunity.”
For anyone passionate about social impact and grassroots development, an internship in Ecuador offers a unique opportunity to merge academic interests with hands-on community work. Luke, a student preparing for a career in labor and economic justice, found exactly that during his internship in the Central Highlands of Ecuador. His placement focused on supporting local agricultural associations, analyzing governance frameworks, and helping develop a social enterprise for chocho beans, which are a traditional Andean crop with both cultural and economic significance.
Key Facts about this Research Internship in Ecuador
- Location: Guaranda, Ecuador
- Academic Focus Area: Labor Rights, Economic Development, Community Governance
- Length: Min. 6 weeks
The Project
Nestled in the community of Atandahua, this project supports rural Indigenous communities in their pursuit of sustainable development, cultural revitalization, and social equity. Despite a rich cultural and ecological heritage, the region faces high rates of poverty, malnutrition, youth migration, and gender inequality. This initiative, founded in 2021, brings together local leaders and international participants to co-create solutions that improve living standards, promote fair labor practices, and preserve cultural identity. This is a truly unique opportunity to engage with critical global issues in a local, rural context.
About Luke
Meet Luke, a Law student at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln with a passion for labor and economic justice. As part of the Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship, Luke spent six weeks interning in Guaranda, Ecuador. Motivated by an interest in Latin American labor structures and indigenous movements that reshaped economic power, Luke saw the internship as a chance to connect theory with practice. His role focused on legal and economic development; supporting local associations in building a social enterprise around chocho beans, a traditional Andean crop. From drafting governance frameworks to conducting community interviews, Luke’s work was both challenging and rewarding. Beyond the projects, he embraced communal living, cultural exchange, and moments of connection with locals that shaped his personal growth. Luke’s story highlights how an internship abroad can broaden perspectives, strengthen professional skills, and foster a deeper sense of purpose.
Check out Luke’s internship presentation: Community Enterprise and Legal Frameworks
From Guaranda to Growth: Luke’s Internship Journey
Diving Into Community Work
Luke’s labor research internship in Ecuador, began with a steep learning curve. The organization supports communities through social and environmental projects, aiming to make migration a choice rather than a necessity. “The team brings in experts, interns, and volunteers from around the world to find solutions to local issues in public health, environmental studies, architecture, and more,” Luke explains.
His first weeks were spent understanding local governance structures and Ecuadorian social and popular economic law. Luke’s main project involved partnering with local associations to market and distribute chocho beans while promoting community-centered values. He analyzed bylaws, conducted interviews, and drafted framework agreements. “When I arrived, I didn’t have an exact job description. It felt like I was not only working on solutions but also searching for the problem,” he recalls.
As was Luke’s experience, expect to start your internship by learning about the community and local systems, sometimes with undefined tasks. Being adaptable and proactive is key to making an impact.
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Hands-On Projects and Unexpected Lessons
Luke quickly found himself navigating responsibilities beyond his comfort zone. He worked directly with farmers, community leaders, and local production associations, helping to create governance frameworks for the chocho bean social enterprise. “I analyzed governance structures, drafted legal documents, and suggested business frameworks, all while working closely with community members,” he says.
Along the way, Luke learned to balance multiple relationships and moving parts. “Public-centered projects often involve many stakeholders, and balancing the organization’s and the community’s needs wasn’t easy. That lesson will guide me throughout my career,” he reflects.
Interns in Ecuador can look forward to taking on meaningful projects that require problem-solving, negotiation, and collaboration. You will often work with diverse groups, balancing different priorities to achieve community-focused goals.
Discover other internships in Ecuador
Life in Guaranda: Daily Moments That Matter
Living communally with fellow interns was one of the highlights of Luke’s experience. “I particularly enjoyed our Wednesday dinners, when someone would cook for everyone—it really brought us together,” he says. Beyond shared meals, he enjoyed walking through the town to meet local farmers and residents, often being offered fresh fruits as gestures of hospitality.
He also recalls moments of professional pride. Conducting interviews with community members and contributing to the framework agreement for the chocho bean enterprise gave him a sense of real impact. “There were times I felt like I was starting from rock bottom, but that pushed me to think creatively and take initiative,” Luke notes.
Explore ways to take care of your mental health during your internship
An internship in Ecuador means deep engagement with the community both inside and outside your projects. Daily interactions and cultural immersion are integral to the internship, offering valuable personal and professional lessons.
Skills Gained and Lessons for the Future
Luke emerged from the internship with both practical and personal growth. He gained experience in legal analysis, economic development, and stakeholder engagement, as well as soft skills like cross-cultural communication. “Personally, it made me closer to the people I was working with and gave me a greater sense of purpose,” he shares.
He also learned to embrace discomfort and uncertainty. “Experiences that feel uncomfortable or outside your expertise often lead to the most growth,” Luke explains. These lessons will guide him as he pursues a career as a lawyer in the U.S. Government, focusing on labor and economic justice issues.
Internships in Ecuador provide practical skills applicable to future careers while fostering personal growth. You can expect to develop problem solving, communication, and leadership abilities in a real-world, community-focused context.
Learn more about what grassroots internships teach you
Advice for Future Interns
Luke offers straightforward guidance for anyone considering a similar path: “Be proactive, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Clarify expectations early and embrace the unknown—it’s where the most learning happens.”
He also encourages interns to enjoy the surroundings. “Take advantage of the natural beauty around you and the people you’ll meet—it’s as important as the work itself,” he says.
Be ready to embrace challenges and uncertainty, and also to enjoy cultural experiences and Ecuador’s natural environment. Flexibility, curiosity, and engagement will maximize your learning and enjoyment.
Discover the personal impacts of internships abroad
Making a Meaningful Impact
Luke’s internship in Ecuador demonstrates how grassroots projects offer a unique combination of professional development and personal enrichment. By engaging with the community, taking on real responsibilities, and navigating complex social projects, interns like Luke make a tangible difference while preparing for future careers.
At Roots Interns, opportunities like Luke’s allow participants to contribute to sustainable community projects abroad, develop valuable skills, and experience a new culture firsthand. If his story resonates with you, fill out an application form to start your own community development or social justice internship and make an impact around the world!
This blog was written by Emily Che
