Having played the perfect hosts for years to foreign interns, AIESEC Chandigarh is now gearing up to play the affable guests. Packing their suitcases for their internships in different parts of the world, 16 AIESEC members are looking forward to two months of hardwork and a fun learning experience. “In fact, out of 30, 14 have already left. The outgoing part of AIESEC didn’t develop until last year. Now we are promoting internships extensively,” tells Tushar Bhatnagar, vice president, AIESEC.

Through the Global Entrepreneurship Programme, AIESEC aims to create change agents that are “culturally sensitive, entrepreneurial, socially responsible and active learners.” In a conference the outgoing interns were apprised of what to expect and what not to expect. “Right now they find the whole idea of going abroad fun, it’s our job to tell them that will work too. It will be challenging as well since they will be mentors to students and work in NGOs et al,” explains Tushar. The different areas these students will be working in include HIV AIDS, development projects, peace, education, environment, management etc. “Through such exposure students are encouraged to open their minds and think globally. Students should focus beyond college. It’s very important to procure good ideas, develop structures and inculcate entrepreneurship. AIESEC has taken the challenge to bring alive the adventurous and ambitious streak in youngsters that the routine life fades away,” Tushar adds that the programme is the most extensive that youngsters offers.

Students indeed are looking forward for the two month experience that they see as a once in a lifetime opportunity. “I’m going abroad for the first time so the excitement is high,” says Renuka Sharma, first year student of Economic Hons from PU, who is flying to Turkey. “I’ll be working with an NGO for the disabled in a programme called Breaking the Barriers. I’m sure that this programme will help me grow.” Best of luck!