The India Center at UCF is an incubator of ideas, research and education on contemporary India. As an incubator, it supports research and education across disciplines. It is the primary facilitator of research and education links between UCF and Indian Institutes of Higher Education. It is equally a platform to facilitate a deeper understanding of India in the United States and of United States in India through dissemination of knowledge and cultures and through creating awareness and engagement with the community.
UCF India Center offers student internships in the summer, fall and spring semesters across three categories:
1. Research Internships
These internships are primarily for students at the School of Politics, Security and International Affairs who aim to develop their research and analytical skills on politics and international relations of India, South Asia and the Indo-Pacific.
- Geopolitical Significance: Understanding the Indo-Pacific region is essential for comprehending global power structures and economic flows.
- India’s Strategic Role: India is a pivotal player in the Indo-Pacific with strategic interests and evolving foreign policy.
- Economic and Security Interests: The region is a hub for trade and security dynamics, offering material for research on economic policies.
- Historical and Cultural Context: India’s engagement is rooted in its historical maritime traditions and colonial past.
- Policy and Diplomacy: Policies like Look East and participation in QUAD highlight India’s diplomatic strategies.
Focusing on this internship equips students for careers in international relations, policy analysis, and strategic planning.
2. Media Internships
The India Center engages actively with the Indian American community and hosts high-profile speakers. Media interns will gain hands-on media skills.
- Event Coverage: Document and report on Center events.
- Community Engagement: Interact with the Indian American community.
- Content Creation: Develop multimedia content.
- Cultural Immersion: Deepen understanding of Indian culture and politics.
These internships prepare students for careers in media, journalism, and international relations.
3. Technical Support Internships
These internships target computer science students and focus on digital support for the India Center website.
- Website Management: Update and maintain website content and performance.
- Media Integration: Embed videos, podcasts, and manage live streams.
- Technical Support: Solve tech issues and assist staff with digital tools.
- Development Projects: Implement custom solutions and features.
- Data Analytics: Monitor site traffic and apply SEO best practices.
- Collaboration: Work with media interns to integrate content and tech.
Interns gain experience in web development, digital media, and IT support while learning about Indian culture and politics.
Benefits of the India Center Internships
Skills and Knowledge
- Research and analytical skills on India, South Asia, and the Indo-Pacific.
- Critical thinking, data interpretation, and policy analysis.
- Writing and communication, including reports and presentations.
- Technical skills for IT and development roles.
- Media production skills like video editing and social media.
- Cultural competence in Indian culture and current issues.
Professional Development
- Hands-on experience aligned with academic studies.
- Networking with professionals, faculty, and guest speakers.
- Mentorship to guide career paths.
- Project management from planning to evaluation.
- Stronger resumes and LinkedIn profiles.
Cultural Exchange
- Workshops and seminars on Indian topics.
- Participation in cultural events and festivals.
- Collaborative projects with Indian organizations.
- Opportunities to learn Indian languages.
- Work with UCF student organizations to host India-related events.