- The borders are closed, but I really want to go on an internship. Is there a way to make it possible?
- So it’s possible, at least in theory. What should I begin with?
- Are there any other services that I can use?
- Let’s say I’ve found an interesting internship. What do I do next?
- And what about short-term schools and conferences?
- Is it possible to go on a semester exchange program?
- It seems that due to all these restrictions, there will be fewer positions, so it’ll be very hard to get in?
- And what if the borders are closed again? How will I get back?
- How do I protect myself when travelling?
The borders are closed, but I really want to go on an internship. Is there a way to make it possible?
Despite the ongoing pandemic, it is still possible to go abroad on short-term internships. Some countries continue issuing student and internship visas. But due to the instability of the epidemiologic situation, things constantly change and it’s impossible to make a list of countries that you can definitely go to. You can start at considering European countries as the ones that are the most open for academic visits.
So it’s possible, at least in theory. What should I begin with?
First, you need to find an internship in your field. You can start looking for an internship at any of ITMO’s research and educational partners. You should also pay closer attention to universities that your academic advisor has ties with. Finally, you can simply browse through the websites of research centers and universities that conduct research in your field. And you should definitely monitor relevant announcements in ISU.
Are there any other services that I can use?
You can check the resources of grant foundations of the countries you would like to go to. You can also register at the STIpot platform. It can help you find a research advisor or team in your field. There’s also StudyQA – a free service for finding educational programs and universities across the world based on your specialization, geographical location, available funding, and interests.
Let’s say I’ve found an interesting internship. What do I do next?
First, you need to check whether the country you’ve found an internship in issues visas. Then, you need to contact the university (more likely the specific laboratory or professor), send them your portfolio and research outline (in case the internship covers a wide array of topics). Wait for the answer, and if it's positive – address ITMO’s Academic Mobility Support Office to prepare the documents for your departure and the competition for partial funding.
And what about short-term schools and conferences?
As of now, there are few onsite short-term schools and conferences. But you can participate in such events online. The procedure is similar: you can look for them on your own or use the educational events calendar in ISU. In case your report has been accepted for a conference, you can address the Academic Mobility Support Office for preparing the necessary documents and participating in the competition for partial funding.
Is it possible to go on a semester exchange program?
Yes, several of ITMO’s partner universities continue to enroll ITMO students in semester exchange programs. But you need to take into account that there’s no guarantee that during your stay, the university won’t transit you to a remote educational format.
It seems that due to all these restrictions, there will be fewer positions, so it’ll be very hard to get in?
The number of students willing to go study abroad has also diminished due to the restrictions, so the chances to go on an exchange program remain roughly the same as before the pandemic.
And what if the borders are closed again? How will I get back?
When the borders closed last year, all our students who decided to go back home could do that. As of now, the associated processes are well-established, so in case of such a situation, getting back home shouldn’t be a problem. You’ll just need to swiftly pack your things and keep in touch with the airline and ITMO University.
How do I protect myself when travelling?
Airlines and airports follow strict safety regulations. Many offer passengers kits with masks, gloves, and sanitizers so that they can protect themselves. If you think everything through in advance, it is possible to take the journey with minimal risks.
