Villanova Student Secures Esteemed Internship in Ireland
Villanova, Pa. (January 15, 2025)— Rita Sogoti, a junior majoring in Criminology at Villanova University, has been awarded the Frederick Douglass-Daniel O’Connell Global Internship for 2025. The program, organized by The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) and the African American Irish Diaspora Network (AAIDN), will take her to Dublin, Ireland, alongside 11 other distinguished students for an enriching eight-week internship.
The Douglass-O’Connell Global Internship in Ireland represents a significant partnership among Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs, AAIDN, and CIEE. The initiative is a tribute to Frederick Douglass and Daniel O’Connell, two historical figures known for their dedication to civil rights and social justice.
“Building cultural competency and understanding is a critical component of the learning experience in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Our multidisciplinary curriculum exposes students to diverse perspectives and engages their critical thinking, so they may succeed in a global society,” stated Adele Lindenmeyr, PhD, William and Julia Moulden Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. “This internship is an excellent opportunity for Rita to apply her academic knowledge to a real-world setting, and we, in the College, are excited for her to benefit from this enriching experience.”
Sogoti was chosen for her outstanding academic performance, innovative spirit, and commitment to advocating for change. Her keen interest in gaining practical experience in Ireland and her respect for its historical and cultural heritage align with the social justice mission championed by Douglass and O’Connell.
“Like Douglass, I have experienced how education and the help of others can transform lives,” Sogoti mentioned in her application. “Through this global internship opportunity, I hope to gain new perspectives and skills to help my goal of becoming an immigration lawyer.”
The internship offers participants a chance to work with Ireland-based companies, attend lectures on local history and culture, and engage in networking activities across Dublin, Cork, and Belfast. Students have various placement choices, including working with media companies, tech startups, or human rights advocacy groups. Each intern receives comprehensive support, including accommodation, airfare, and a living stipend.
About CIEE: Since 1947, CIEE has built bridges between different people, different countries, and different cultures through study abroad and international exchange programs that advance peace in our world. We change lives, our alumni change the world. Learn more at ciee.org.
About AAIDN: Since 2020, the African American Irish Diaspora Network has fostered relationships between African Americans, Ireland, and the Irish Diaspora. AAIDN promotes programs in education, the arts, entrepreneurship, and culture that unite African American and Irish communities. AAIDN’s mission is supported by both Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs and the government of Northern Ireland. Learn more at aaidnet.org.
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