Bard College Globalization and International Affairs program in New York City
Bard College Globalization and International Affairs (BGIA) is a semester-away program in New York City that gives college students an opportunity to gain professional internship experience while earning academic credit. Founded in 2001, BGIA is designed for individuals who aspire to lead and excel in the fields of international relations, global governance, and public policy. Our network of 120+ internship partners provide practical experience in human rights advocacy, immigration law, NGOs, international business, arts and media, global health, sustainability, and more. Our 1000+ alumni have gone on to work at the United Nations, World Bank, U.S. State Department, Buzzfeed News, and Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Students intern 20 hours per week while taking four courses (16 credits). Our classroom is located in Times Square, the heart of Manhattan – a 20-minute subway ride away from our dorms in Williamsburg, Brooklyn’s trendiest neighborhood. A semester at BGIA also includes professional development workshops, high-profile guest speakers, and cultural events such as Broadway shows and baseball games. BGIA accepts students from all majors. It’s free to apply online, and we offer generous need-based financial aid. In addition, Bonner Scholars/Leaders selected for the program will receive a $3,000 scholarship.
Student Testimonies
“I’ve learned so much about life outside of my little corner of the world, and gotten the chance to explore diverse topics like tech and international journalism that aren’t usually covered in undergrad. In addition, the experience garnered from being placed in the workforce as an intern at Bond Street Theater is invaluable. I don’t think it could be replicated anywhere else!” ”
“I’m always looking for ways to challenge myself on applying theory that I learn in class to real-world interactions with others. One of the many reasons why I love my internship with Welcome to Chinatown is because I get to do exactly that. Our work with small businesses requires a lot of in-person interaction, so I feel like I’m always doing valuable work. Welcome to Chinatown allows me to learn legal, consulting, marketing, and fundraising skills which I wouldn’t be able to access otherwise.”
