Exciting Sustainability Internship Opportunity for College Students
Eight exceptional U.S. college students selected for a fully funded sustainability-focused internship in Copenhagen.
PORTLAND, Maine — The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) and the Scan Design Foundation (SDF) are thrilled to announce the inaugural cohort selected for the 2026 Scan Design Foundation Environmental Sustainability Internship. This immersive eight-week program in Copenhagen, Denmark, is designed to deepen students' understanding of environmental sustainability in a unique context.
The Scan Design Foundation Environmental Sustainability Internship allows students to develop vital skills in intercultural communication, problem-solving, and leadership while enhancing their educational journey.
In Summer 2026, eight talented students will take part in an internship with a company based in Copenhagen that emphasizes environmentally sustainable business practices. This hands-on experience will enable the interns to collaborate with Danish professionals, tackling real-world environmental challenges and acquiring practical skills that will make them more employable and career-ready.
Meet the 2026 Scan Design Foundation Environmental Sustainability Interns
The selected interns represent leading colleges across the United States and come from a diverse array of academic majors, reflecting a commitment to sustainability:
- Villanova University, Srija Tamidela, Finance
- University of Washington, Eva Odderson, Engineering
- University of Texas at Austin, Lara Figur Valente Borges, Environmental Science
- University of Colorado Boulder, Olivia Gaik, Biochemistry
- University of California, Berkeley, Sophia Ware, Environmental Science
- University of California, Berkeley, Cornelius Van Zutphen, Business Administration
- North Carolina A&T University, Misbahou Jalloh, Physics
- Louisiana State University, Alexis Kelley, Environmental Engineering
These remarkable individuals were chosen from a competitive pool of applicants for their leadership qualities, dedication to environmental sustainability, enthusiasm for cross-cultural experiences, and their drive to innovate solutions to global environmental issues.
Supporting Environmental Sustainability through International Collaboration
"This internship is a reflection of Scan Design Foundation's mission to enhance Danish-American relations by gathering students to study and address environmental challenges together," stated Fidelma McGinn, President of the Scan Design Foundation. "Participants will gain firsthand insights into Denmark’s impressive commitment to sustainable, low-carbon lifestyles during this immersive experience."
"The first cohort of Scan Design interns will return home equipped with professional experience and a network of international contacts that will significantly benefit their careers in sustainability," expressed James P. Pellow, Ed.D., President and CEO of CIEE. "We take pride in collaborating with Scan Design Foundation to empower young leaders with the knowledge and experience necessary to create positive change in our world."
Opportunities for Non-Selected Applicants
For those who were not chosen, nearly 300 qualified candidates will be awarded a $1,500 CIEE Scan Design Scholars Grant. This grant provides access to any CIEE summer or semester program through 2027, which includes various sustainability-focused programs across multiple locations.
Do you have questions about the program? Please reach out through the provided contact information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Scan Design Foundation Environmental Sustainability Internship?
This is an immersive internship program that places U.S. college students in Copenhagen for practical experience in environmental sustainability practices.
Who can apply for the internship?
The internship is open to U.S. college students who demonstrate leadership and interest in environmental sustainability.
What skills will interns gain during this program?
Interns will develop competencies in intercultural communication, leadership, and problem-solving while tackling real-world environmental challenges.
How many students are selected for the internship?
Eight students will be selected each year to participate in this prestigious internship program.
Are there any grants available for non-selected applicants?
Yes, nearly 300 non-selected applicants will receive a $1,500 CIEE Scan Design Scholars Grant for future CIEE study programs.
