INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME
2021 Autumn Applications are now open
About CYIS
The Centre for Youth and International Studies (CYIS) is a voluntary, youth-orientated and non-partisan think-tank with a strong in-house research capacity of exceptional young professionals from key inter-governmental institutions.
The Centre’s mission is to bring the creative thinking of the youth to shape the strategic agenda for governments, industry and academia. Together with the brightest young minds, CYIS generates independent, fact-based, solution-oriented and objective insights on emerging cross-dimensional and regional threats. We exert influence to promote cross-generational dialogue with key decision-makers and leading experts on policy.
The vision of CYIS is to create a more sustainable world for the next generation of decision-makers. As part of this vision, the goal is to provide an equitable environment to foster critical and creative thinking for all youth. Ultimately CYIS seeks to enable young individuals to express their voice on youth vulnerability in all aspects of society.
CYIS Internship
CYIS organises every September and February a six-month internship programme for passionate young professionals who want to contribute to our vision with their insights and expertise.
The CYIS Internship Programme offers young professionals the opportunity to enhance their skills in their respective theoretical and technical fields with an on-site or remote working experience. The internship will be output orientated based on each project assigned and tailored to the individual schedule of each intern.
This opportunity is re-numerated if applied through the Erasmus Programme of your respective academic institution. This will enable you to move to Brussels and work together with our staff. Alternatively, we offer the remote working experience which is non-remunerated.
Programme Positions
Executive Intern
The intern will be responsible to support the Executive Management work in terms of knowledge management through note-taking, scheduling and project management evaluation.
Research Intern
The intern will be responsible to assist with the research of all dimensions by conducting content research, editing blog and journal article drafts as well as audio & visual content, and data analysis.
Operational Intern
The intern will be in charge of system and structure maintenance of our website, communication, grants and partnerships which will strengthen the internal and external structure of the Association
Programme Objectives
The CYIS Internship Programme has four main objectives:
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To provide the Centre with access to the latest theoretical and technical knowledge that the intern can apply through practical work assignments, as well as with additional staff resources;
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To provide interns with an opportunity to learn from the CYIS Dimensions & Regions and get a better understanding and a more balanced view of the Organisation;
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To contribute to creating a more diverse workforce;
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To expand understanding of CYIS and emerging threats to youth.
Eligibility Criteria
In order to apply for an internship at CYIS, you must fulfil all criteria outlined below on the application date:
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Age: you will be over 20 years of age
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Educational status:
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you will be a university student: you have completed at least one year successfully;
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you will have obtained your highest degree less than a year ago
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Languages: you will have proficiency in one of the two official CYIS languages (English and French), and a working knowledge of the other will be considered an asset. Knowledge of other languages will be an advantage as specified in the internship description.
Application
The application procedure consists of three steps: register on CYIS Login, complete the application form and submit.
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Receipt of applications
For internships beginning in September, applications open in July. Applications for internships beginning in February open in November.
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Assessment and eligibility criteria check
Once the application period has closed, candidates are evaluated on the basis of the academic profile, language skills and additional qualities, such as having an international profile, relevant work experience, publications and the motivation for the application.
If you successfully pass this assessment step, you will be requested to upload all your supporting documents in a single pdf file. The CYIS HR will then verify them.
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Selection
CYIS Dimensions and Regions consult the CYIS HR to find the best candidates based on their specific needs and criteria (language skills, relevant studies and experience, etc.)
Receiving an internship offer in a particular DG or service will depend on the number of positions available.
There is a code of conduct among DImensions and Regions for the selection of trainees. If two CYIS entities would like to recruit the same candidate, the entity highest in the candidate’s preference upon application automatically takes priority.
If Selected
Congratulations!
Let’s take a look at some practical elements of being a CYIS Intern.
CYIS Interns who would like to work in Brussels and meet our staff members or work from their home country and support themselves can apply for an Erasmus Grant during this experience.
Practical advice
CYIS does not organise your accommodation. In Brussels, most interns typically pay between €350 and €550 per month for accommodation. The 'BXL A LOUER - Bouche à Oreille' Facebook page - are good places to start searching for accommodation.
You should plan for some expenses when you first move over, such as a deposit (one to two months) for your accommodation. The cost of living might be higher than in your home country.
Working at CYIS
CYIS interns work on an output basis based on each project that they are assigned to. The work is adapted and is flexible to the schedule of each individual intern.
CYIS is closed on public holidays, such as Christmas and Easter. Leave needs to be agreed in advance by your advisor.
There is no official dress code at the CYIS. However, you are expected to dress professionally.
You should register with your local social insurance provider for information on healthcare reimbursements.