Local Organizations Seek Employer Support of Important US-Mexico Internship Program

Strengthening economic and educational opportunities between the U.S. and Mexico has been an important ongoing mission of both countries.

A program of formal educational exchange initiatives between the countries are aimed at “enhancing hemispheric competitiveness, increasing prosperity and providing study abroad opportunities to better prepare a globally aware and culturally competent workforce.” In a public statement, President Obama shared his belief that when people study and work together, they prosper together. Locally, the Mexican Consulate and Alliance Abroad Group (AAG) are working together to sponsor regional support, which includes the U.S.- Mexico Intern Program.

The Hispanic population in the United States is over 55 million, making it the largest ethnic group, with Texas being home to over ten and half million people of Hispanic origin. One out of three citizens in Austin are of Hispanic descent and the broader program goals of Western Hemisphere prosperity is of keen interest to our community.   Alliance Abroad Group (AAG), headquartered in Austin, is a U.S. Department of State designated sponsor of cultural exchange programs that support educational and work abroad programs. “We are excited about the chance to connect Austin and other Texas employers with educated and motivated Mexican interns,” says James Bell, AAG President. “In our considerable experience with cultural exchange, we know everyone ends up benefitting from the experience.”

The organizations believe that Austin is the perfect fit for this initiative with its many established and emerging companies and businesses searching for top talent. “We’re appealing to local businesses to support this program by serving as a host employers,” says Bell. Unlike traditional internship programs, foreign exchange internships can be up to 18 months. The exchange program requires an employer to invest in the intern’s learning, development and cultural exposure opportunities rather than traditional compensation and benefit packages. Interns have the chance to put their formal education into practical application while contributing a global perspective to employer goals. “We’ve got to stand behind this program as a community and country,” says Carlos Gonzalez Guiterrez, Consul General to Mexico. “There is so much good that can come from programs that create opportunities to learn from one another.”

The two group maintain that beyond local educational and economic impact, the program has far-reaching diplomacy efforts that stretch well beyond our own Texas borders and Austin backyard.

Alliance Abroad Group (AAG) is a company of cultural exchange enthusiasts and recruiting solutions experts. Fueled by a desire to bring education, enrichment and enlightenment to people around the globe, AAG is also passionate about creating lasting value and life-changing experiences for businesses and individuals. The company has been a cultural exchange leader since 1992, helping hundreds of thousands of international students and young professionals come to the United States to work, intern and train. AAG has made a palpable impact on creating global understanding, tolerance and connectedness, one person, one community, one company and one country at a time. Travel and education makes the world and differences smaller, is the underlying belief and purpose behind our brand. Learn more: www.allianceabroadgroup.com