So many of you known that I've been stressing out with the process of finding a co-op for next term - well, things appear to be settled. I've been offered a position at the Deshpande Foundation in Hubli, India working as an intern/instructor within their social entrepreneurship Fellowship Program.
It's a 6-month co-op; Hubli is a smallish city (small compared to cities like Mumbai or New Delhi, not compared to Boston). I'm supposed to be starting January 5. Flights and travel and everything aren't worked out yet, so I don't know the exact time I'll be leaving the States, but it means my time at home will be pretty limited.
I'm including links to the Foundation's website if anyone is interested in learning more about who I'll be working with, more specific information on my position is below.
About the Deshpande Fellowship Program (DFP):
At its core, the Deshpande Fellowship Program (DFP) is a training program – a six month, residential training program that prepares young adults with varying years of work experience to start their own social enterprise. The course is designed for both breadth and depth. The material covers a range of topics to the degree that participants are capable of both implementing and managing necessary processes for their own enterprise. The modules are meant to be rigorous, challenging fellows to stretch their limits and prepare them for the obstacles they may meet as they pursue their new social ventures.
The English and Computer/Technology Instructor(s) is an integral member of the Deshpande Fellowship Program staff team. The instructor will spend the first several weeks developing a comprehensive curriculum on English and technology, two months running an intensive training program followed by four months of consultation/instruction as needed.
Here's some general information on job responsibilities, my understanding is that these will be developed and added to as we go:
- Serve as the point person and lead facilitator for English/Computer instruction.
- Revise the comprehensive curriculum for training DFP fellows in the following: English grammar, technical (business) writing, speech, presentation skills, computer basics and Internet use.
- Teach & help fellows to improve in English, presentation skills, technical writing, reading & effective communication.
- Re-design and edit GLOCAL (DFP) magazine, develop DFP success stories and narrative through articles. Showcase student talent and achievements.
- Set the system for Alumni network building.
- Edit documents produced by the fellows and provide specific, individual feedback to each fellow as to how they can improve.
- Participate in program events and gatherings to support and enhance cultural exchange.
- Prepare DFP Marketing Materials (brochure & booklet).
More information on the Fellowship Program (DFP)
This is something that I've been working on getting for months now and it's a great opportunity :) If someone asked me in August or September what my first choice would be for my next co-op, this was at the top of the list. I think it will be a great challenge but I'm looking forward to doing something new, and I expect the work to be very rewarding, if difficult.
Only thing I'm bummed about is being home for such a short time!! Thanks everyone for your support!
