GAIN INSIGHT INTO RESOURCE MANAGEMENT, SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICES, AND INNOVATION IN THE CONTEXT OF A TROPICAL RAINFOREST
We invite you to join us for a two-week internship in the heart of Costa Rica! This multidisciplinary program allows you to get first-hand exposure into innovative sustainability models in a uniquely incredible setting. You’ll gain insights into sustainable practices in the context of business, nonprofit organizations, and government, and you’ll get to workshop and discuss the successes and challenges of innovative local initiatives.
Our Sustainable Development Micro-Internship is fully facilitated, and you’ll enjoy expert guidance during all seminars, workshops, field excursions, group-based interactive workshops, discussion groups, and reflection sessions. It’s an excellent opportunity for anyone studying sustainability, environmental studies, business management, international development, sustainable tourism, or related fields, to gain practical fieldwork experience in a stunning Costa Rican context. You’ll gain skills in thinking critically and think creatively about today’s key challenges. This short term internship is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in a hands-on experience.
This program is particularly useful for people aspiring careers in the following industries and fields;
LEARNING OUTCOMES
You’ll enjoy a healthy mix of practical and theoretical learning, and you’ll come away with a wealth of knowledge in the following areas;
You’ll also gain:
During the first part of our program, you’ll be based at an international center and university in Turrialba, whose key functions are teaching, research, innovation for development and technical cooperation in agriculture, natural resources, and the environment. Here, we’ll present a historical context for Costa Rica’s sustainability commitment, and introduce you to the sustainability model of this region. Through lectures and interactive workshops that discuss real-life examples of local sustainability initiatives, you’ll learn about the successes and challenges of the intersection of local communities, tourism, government policies, and environmental conservation. You’ll also be presented with a constructive criticism perspective on the country’s approach to sustainable development, and you’ll be able to implement your knowledge during practical projects.
The second part of the program will take us to Tirimbina Nature Reserve, a pristine forest area of 345 hectares that is teeming with wildlife. This reserve offers an ideal setting for learning about sustainability, as it functions on a nonprofit conservation model that fosters a healthy balance between land conservation, scientific research, environmental education, and eco-tourism. Based in the heart of this reserve, you’ll learn about this conservation model, embark on practical conservation tasks such as biodiversity surveys, data collection, and educational outreach activities. Through group discussions, you’ll also identify challenges in this sustainability model, and potential areas for innovation.
You’ll receive a detailed breakdown of the program’s itinerary prior to arrival, but here’s a general idea of what you’ll be getting up to each day.
Day 1 – 16 June: Arrival & welcome dinner
Day 2 – 17 June: Introduction to Costa Rica. Transfer to Turrialba Volcano with a visit to a cheese farm and lecture on the dark side of sustainability in Costa Rica.
Day 3 – 18 June: Sustainability in the government. Speakers in the morning and workshop in the afternoon on Leadership and Conflict Resolution. Night walking tour in the Botanical Garden.
Day 4 -1 9 June: Sustainability in the private sector. Speakers and panel discussion in the morning and workshop in the afternoon on Adaptability for Innovation.
Day 5 – 20 June: Sustainability in the third sector. Speakers in the morning and workshop in the afternoon on Emotional Intelligence and Feedback.
Day 6 – 21 June: Putting Sustainability in Action. Interactive workshops in the morning followed by a field visit to a Sustainable Farm (Blanco y Negro Farm).
Day 7 – 22 June: Adventure Day. Full day white water rafting at Pacuare River.
Day 8 – 23 June: Turrialba to Tirimbina Biological Reserve
Day 9 – 24 June: Immersive forest experience. Walking tour through the Reserve’s trails in the morning, followed by a workshop about the site’s conservation model.
Day 10 – 25 June: Project problem identification. Collaboration, brainstorming, and discussion sessions.
Day 11 – 26 June: Final project planning and presentation delivery.
Day 12 – 27 June: Tirimbina to San José, walking tour in San José, and farewell dinner.
Day 13 – 28 June: Departure
Ignacio Mora-Barboza
Environmental Lawyer and Sustainability Project Manager with experience in advising on public policy design and implementation in areas such as climate change, human rights, indigenous peoples, transparency and environmental conservation. As a born and raised Costa Rican he has worked in the promotion of ecotourism, sustainable rural development, and wellness tourism focused in developing project impact and sustainability best practices. Throughout his 15 years of professional experience he has rapidly grown from an advisor for decision makers to an experienced leader himself, making him the perfect lead for this micro-internship.
Ana Gazo
She has contributed to environmental conservation efforts as a dedicated forest firefighter for 6 years and is the president of a cultural association dedicated to preserving archaeological and natural heritage. She has been a customer service professional the past 5 years and is excited to be part of this micro-internship that aligns with her passion for cultural preservation and environmental sustainability.
Genesis Moreno
A Venezuelan geographer with a decade of experience in managing NGOs across various Latin American countries, including six years in Costa Rica. Having traveled extensively throughout the country, she has developed a deep appreciation for its diversity and rich cultural heritage. Her degrees in Governance, Political Management, and Public Administration, enhancing her ability to navigate complex organizational and policy landscapes.
Víctor Martínez Albán
He has been working in forestry projects in Costa Rica for almost 10 years in the development of various projects including carbon fixing, ecological restoration, and environmental impact. His motivation is to help farmers and their communities develop social and gender justice through sustainable agriculture practices. His expertise in the field offers a unique perspective and industry knowledge.
Throughout this short term internship, you’ll stay at three separate accommodations. To break up your arrival and departure days, you’ll get to relax at your hotel in San José where you’ll share a room with another program participant and have Wifi and a private bathroom in your room.
You’ll then spend your first week at the Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center (CATIE) campus, where again you’ll be sharing with another participant and your room will have Wifi and a private bathroom.
In the second week you’ll head to Tirimbina Biological Station where you’ll get to reconnect with nature in triple rooms without Wifi inside and shared bathrooms outside the room. Each accommodation provides a comfortable space to unwind from your day’s adventure and prep for the next one to come!
This fully facilitated program ensures 24/7 access to local staff members who will be traveling with you and guiding you during your stay. The site visits and accommodations have been vetted to ensure safe and comfortable environments throughout this micro-internship. As a tourist in any destination, you should respect local & cultural practices and always be aware of your belongings. Be sure to visit your doctor to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy.
There is Wifi available at the various sites and accommodations (although not always in your bedroom) for you to stay connected with friends and family throughout the program. You can also consider activating international roaming on your existing phone plan to ensure constant network access, or unlocking your phone for international SIM cards to purchase a local SIM and data package on arrival.
This program includes the majority of meals throughout your adventure. Besides arrival/departure days and the final leisure day, you will receive breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the various hotels, restaurants, and sites that you’ll visit. Vegetarians, vegans, and serious allergies can be accommodated, but please inform us prior to arrival.
During this program, you will get to travel between San José, Turrialba, and Tirimbina in the Central Valley of Costa Rica which each offer a unique setting for exploration. Imagine the rich history of the historical neighborhoods of the capital city of San José. Be captivated by the lush and beautiful landscapes of Turrialba. Immerse yourself in the biodiversity and ecological wonders of Tirimbina. Your journey throughout these destinations is sure to leave a lasting memory of the breathtaking scenery in Costa Rica!
This micro-internship has set program dates from June 16-28, 2024. For similar programs in the future, follow us on social media or sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date via the links found at the bottom of the page.
Some of our most commonly asked questions about our Sustainable Development Micro-Internship in Costa Rica.
During our Sustainable Development Micro-Internship, you can expect to gain a mix of professional development and cultural exploration. Throughout the program, you’ll gain hands-on experience in the field, collaborating with locals and fellow interns, building relationships and a strong network. You’ll do this with the backdrop of Costa Rica’s stunning nature and unique culture. Expect to develop your personal and professional skills along the way!
As you engage with meaningful projects that contribute to sustainable development and environmental causes, you’ll see the benefit of pursing a career with a purpose and develop a passion for creating a positive change. Also, you’ll get to use and sharpen your professional skills, as well as your interpersonal skills. This immersive micro-internship will expose you to various aspects of business and conservation to give you insight and understanding into how these industries function.
This particular micro-internship is ideal for people aspiring careers that involve sustainability or development. These could be positions in NGOs, government, nonprofits, or international development organizations. People who aspire to be project/operations managers, sustainability analysts, or any career paths in the context of environmental/resource management or sustainable business will benefit from joining this program. Whether you are a current student, taking a gap year, or have already started your career, this is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the industry and expand your knowledge!
This program is fully facilitated – meaning that from when you land at the airport in San José, your itinerary will be managed for you. All accommodation and transport on the ground are included, along with the majority of meals. Additionally, you will enjoy a range of workshops, discussions, site visits, lectures, and other learning sessions. To top it off, all activities in the itinerary are included to give you a well-rounded experience that will help you explore Costa Rica’s industry, nature, and culture.
If you’re ready to apply for this micro-internship, here’s what to do:
Fill in the application form below which includes sharing your CV with us.
We’ll review your application and give you a response within 2 working days.
If you accept your spot, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you all the information you need.
We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit. Only once we receive payment of the deposit will your spot be confirmed.
Leading up to the micro-internship, we’ll help you prepare and send you a more detailed itinerary.
ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
UK: +44 139 269 0255
US: +1 617 500 6179
internship@rootsinterns.com
OFFICE: Cape Town, South Africa
SOCIAL
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
UK: +44 139 269 0255
US: +1 617 500 6179
internship@rootsinterns.com
OFFICE: Cape Town, South Africa
SOCIAL
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
UK: +44 139 269 0255
US: +1 617 500 6179
internship@rootsinterns.com
OFFICE: Cape Town, South Africa
SOCIAL
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
