Princeton in Latin America (PiLA) partners with NGOs and multilateral organizations and places highly qualified recent college graduates in year-long service fellowships with nonprofit, public service, humanitarian, and government organizations in Latin America and the Caribbean. Placements emphasize the power of firsthand work experience to shape young people's attitudes and mobilize them to effect positive social change. PiLA enhances the mission of its partners by building their capacity to constructively impact the communities they serve, addressing the social, economic, and political barriers to egalitarian community development. Since 2003, PiLA has placed over 400 fellows with partners in 20 countries throughout the region.
The fellowship experience varies greatly depending on placement and organization. Some Fellows work closely with a supervisor or colleague(s); others work more independently. Some Fellows work in offices that are filled with local staff; others work with a high number of North American expatriates. Some Fellows live in urban areas like Mexico City or Lima; and others are based in semi-urban and rural areas with limited resources.
No matter the host organization or location, all fellowships last approximately 12 months (with the exception of remote fellowships during the COVID-19 pandemic). Placements are finalized in the spring and start dates range from June to August. All Fellows experience a support community from Princeton in Latin America staff, alumni, and other Fellows. Fellows are often matched with alumni buddies and mentors during the fellowship and beyond.
Eligibility
Application for Princeton in Latin America fellowships is open to graduates of accredited U.S. and Canadian universities. International students who have graduated within the last 4 years from a college or university accredited in the U.S. or Canada may apply but should note that visa eligibility for destination countries may be a determining factor in placement.
- Open to young professionals and graduating seniors
- Graduate of U.S. or Canadian accredited University
- Professional / advanced Spanish language skills