The SITE Program (Study, Intercultural Training and Experience), established in 2005, is a paid internship opportunity for English Teaching Assistants in Lombardy, Italy. This program provides recent graduates with the chance to deepen their understanding of Italian language and culture while fostering linguistic and intercultural exchange. It is a unique opportunity for those passionate about teaching and engaging with diverse cultures.
The program is a collaboration between Dickinson College, which serves as the liaison for over 50 US universities, and the Istituto Luca Pacioli in Crema, which coordinates the SITE network of around 60 schools in Lombardy. The initiative is supported by the Italian Embassy in Washington DC, the Italian Consulates in the US, and the authorities of the Region of Lombardy, as well as the Education Office of Lombardy for Foreign Language and Culture.
The SITE Program is open to recent graduates or current students who have completed, or are about to complete, a college-level course in Italian language and culture. Candidates pursuing M.A. or Ph.D. studies in Italian language and culture are also encouraged to apply.
The program lasts for 8 months and is well-suited for flexible and adventurous candidates, as it offers a variety of teaching and cultural exchange experiences. The assistant’s primary task is to teach 12 hours of English per week, with an additional 13 hours dedicated to lesson preparation, cultural activities, or assisting with other subjects. Tasks can include teaching conversation, culture, or preparing English lessons for subjects like history, geography, or social sciences.
Candidates should be self-motivated, adaptable, and willing to take initiative. Strong communication skills, flexibility, and the ability to work independently are essential. Previous teaching experience, especially with non-native speakers, is highly recommended.
