Spotlighting IES Abroad’s Partnership with the Posse Foundation

IES Abroad's Diversity Relations & Advising team just wrapped up hosting their second internship opportunity in partnership with the Posse Foundation, marking another successful chapter in our shared commitment to empowering a diverse group of student leaders. We're proud to be Posse's only international education career partner, offering unique opportunities for Posse Scholars to gain global experience and professional development in the field of study abroad.

As part of this exciting partnership, we’re spotlighting a few of our past DEIA interns who have made a lasting impact on our mission to create inclusive global education experiences. These talented individuals played key roles in advancing our diversity initiatives and ensuring that our programs remain accessible and welcoming to all students. Today, they’re pursuing incredible paths in international education, advocacy, and beyond—continuing to champion the values they helped foster during their time with us. 

Dora Intern Headshot

Meet Dora Granera:

Dora is a 2024 Boston University graduate with a Bachelor's degree in International Relations. 

During her internship, Dora provided administrative support to the Diversity Relations & Advising team while contributing to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Antiracism (DEIA) initiatives.

  1. Key Responsibilities: Dora contributed to DEIA initiatives across IES Global departments by assisting in the development of impactful projects, materials, and communications. She conducted research and data analysis to strengthen recruitment strategies and guide program development. Additionally, Dora provided essential logistical and operational support for strategic events, engaging prospective students, current students, and alumni.
  2. Notable Projects: Dora completed an inventory of identity-related social media assets to strengthen diversity communications and developed a targeted recruitment strategy for students from underrepresented identities, drawing on data from partner universities. Additionally, she researched scholarship opportunities to help diverse students access study abroad programs.
  3. Skills Gained: Through editing, writing, and presenting research findings, Dora strengthened her communication skills and enhanced her public speaking and presentation abilities in team meetings and project reviews. She also gained technical expertise in data analysis, database management, and logistical coordination for DEIA initiatives.

Dora Intern Headshot
“During my time working with IES Abroad, I learned a great deal about how to strategically research and implement a solid plan to recruit students from diverse backgrounds. As an IES Abroad alum, I am very grateful to have worked with the DEIA team and gained insight into the behind-the-scenes aspects of a study abroad organization. It was a humbling and beautiful experience, as studying abroad is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that everyone deserves.”
Dora G. (IES Abroad Santiago | 2023 Fall | Boston University)
Erick Fajardo-Ortega Headshot

Meet Erick Fajardo-Ortega:

Erick is a senior at Tulane University studying Public Health.

During his internship, Erick contributed to the planning and development of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at IES Global, while supporting the organization’s mission to create inclusive and accessible study abroad experiences.

After completing his internship, Erick has started his own international education journey by studying abroad with IES Abroad Granada.

  1. Key Responsibilities: Erick contributed to DEIA projects by developing materials and communications across multiple departments, providing logistical and operational support for strategic initiatives and events that served prospective students, current students, and alumni.
  2. Notable Projects: Erick led a research-driven solo project, presenting new initiatives to strengthen IES Global's DEIA efforts and developed recommendations to advance the organization’s diversity and anti-racism strategies.
  3. Skills Gained: Erick strengthened his quantitative research and data analysis skills through DEIA project development, enhancing project coordination by collaborating across departments on diversity initiatives. He also improved his data presentation abilities by delivering research findings and recommendations to leadership.

Erick Fajardo-Ortega Headshot
“Working at IES Abroad opened my eyes to the entirely foreign yet fascinating field of global education. During my internship I was able to nurture and develop important skills that will serve me no matter where I go. It was inspiring to see that DEIA plays an important role at IES Abroad, and even more inspiring to be a part of a team that is actively aiming to make studying abroad a more inclusive and accessible experience.”
Erick F.O. (IES Abroad Granada | 2024 Fall | Tulane University)

Be sure to learn more about everything we do to further our mission and DEIA efforts in the field!

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