Dates: Between June 1 - August 11
Place: Chennai, India
For questions contact Sharifa Halimi at shalimi@sas.upenn.edu
Chennai (previously known as Madras) is the gateway of southern India and the capital of the Tamil Nadu. The fourth most populous metropolis in India and a significant port city, Chennai is characterized by its Marina beach, modern skyscrapers and temple towers. Chennai is a loud, crowded, unapologetic mega-city and is perhaps one of the clearest examples of infused traditional and modern India.
Host Institution: The Sharma Centre for Heritage Education (SCHE) is a non-profit Public Educational Trust aimed at promoting research into India’s cultural heritage. Their areas of contribution are in the fields of cutting-edge research in Indian archaeology, results of which are published in high-ranking scientific journals. The Centre generates awareness of Indian archaeology amongst children and teachers through their ongoing children’s museum and workshop projects. SCHE’s research includes: 1. Excavations and research at the Paleolithic site of Attirampakkam, Tamil Nadu, SE India, Investigating prehistoric landscapes in SE India 2. Experimental Archaeology: Manufacture and use of stone artefacts in studies of prehistoric behavior and cognition 3. Functional studies of lithic artefacts: initiating 4. Site formation studies of prehistoric sites in SE India 5. Ethnoarchaeological Investigations 6. Public Archaeology.
Students interested in archaeology, museum studies, education, or public engagement connected to heritage are encouraged to apply!
Visa Information:
Students are encouraged to determine their visa eligibility before submitting an application for their desired placement. Depending on citizenship and destination country, students may need a visa or work permit to participate in this internship. It is the student’s responsibility as a GRIP participant to determine their visa requirements and obtain a visa if needed.
Students may also access visa information and support through CIBT Visa.
Program Dates: Between June 1 - August 11
Program Length: 6 - 8 Weeks
Housing: Students will find their own housing. SAC can assist in the search.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: CLOSED
What to Expect After Application Submission
The South Asia Center will review all complete applications for quality and eligibility and will share application materials with employers abroad within one week of each application deadline.
- Interviews for internship placements will take place any time in February or March. You will be scheduled for an interview via email, so please regularly check.
- SAC admission decisions will be announced to applicants in APRIL 2025.
- Accepted applicants need to commit to, or decline, the offer by one week after decision has been made through SAC.
Helpful Tips on Preparing Your Application
Reach out to Penn Career Services as you prepare your resume and cover letter/personal statement. Take advantage of the Career Services' service as soon as you are ready with a draft of your resume and personal statement. We encourage you to schedule an appointment with Career Services sooner rather than later.
We also recommend taking a peek at our SAC Blog, where previous students have submitted their reflections from previous years.