Learn. Connect. Make a difference.

The BRIDGE Summer Community Engagement Internship is a short, intensive summer program that allows you to gain real-life experience, work with local communities, and explore social issues across Europe – while earning valuable skills for your future.

What is BRIDGE?

BRIDGE is a 2–4 week summer internship where you work with a community organisation (NGO, school, cultural centre, third place) in a European region.

It is part of the EMERGE Alliance, a network of universities that believe learning should be connected to real social challenges.

This is not a typical internship:

  • You don’t just “help” – you learn with the community,
  • Your work responds to real local needs,
  • Reflection and learning are as important as practice.

Why should I apply?

Because BRIDGE gives you:

  • 🌍 International experience in a real community setting
  • 🧠 Practical skills you won’t learn in a classroom
  • 🤝 Intercultural competence and teamwork experience
  • 💡 Insight into social justice, inclusion, and civic engagement
  • 🚀 A strong addition to your CV and future career

And yes – it’s supported by Erasmus+ funding.

What will I actually do?

Depending on the placement, you may:

  • support community projects and local initiatives,
  • work with young people, migrants, seniors, or local residents,
  • help with education, communication, research, or events,
  • co-create solutions together with community partners.

You will never be left alone – you’ll have:

  • a community mentor on site,
  • an academic mentor from your university.

How long is the internship?

  • 🗓 2–4 weeks in summer
  • 💻 Online preparation before you go
  • ✍️ Reflection after you return

Short, intensive, meaningful.

Who can apply?

  • Students from EMERGE partner universities
  • From different study fields (not only social sciences!)
  • Motivated to learn, reflect, and engage with communities
  • No previous community engagement experience required

How is it funded?

  • Internships are mainly funded through Erasmus+ mobility
  • Funding helps cover travel and living costs
  • Your university will guide you through the process

What will I gain?

By the end of BRIDGE, you will have:

  • hands-on field experience,
  • better communication and teamwork skills,
  • stronger civic awareness,
  • international contacts and friendships,
  • a clearer sense of how your studies connect to society.

Will I receive ECTS credits?


ECTS recognition depends on your home university.

Each institution has its own rules and procedures for recognising credits from the Bridge Program.

👉 Please contact your International Office or programme coordinator at your university to ask:

  • Whether ECTS credits are awarded

  • How many credits can you receive

  • What requirements must be fulfilled

  • Whether the programme needs to be included in your Learning Agreement

 

Ready to build bridges?

BRIDGE is about connecting people, places, and ideas.
If you want a summer experience that matters – this is for you.