In recent years, students throughout the United States have become increasingly interested in getting involved with microfinance. They are attracted by its potential for self-sustainability as well as the prospect of promoting opportunities for poor people throughout the developing world.
La Ceiba offers student a unique experience to participate in the hands-on operation of a microfinance institution while earning class credit, a prospect that is extremely attractive to students interested in international development. By giving students the opportunity to participate in operating an NGO, they will feel that their education has provided them with practical skills necessary to find jobs upon graduation.
La Ceiba offers students at the University of Mary Washington the opportunity to participate in an unofficial two-year practicum:
Junior Year:
| Fall Semester | Winter Break | Spring Semester | Summer |
| Econ 490: Introduction to Microfinance for Development | One Week Trip to Honduras | Independent Studies/Internships | Four-week Internship in Honduras (optional) |
Senior Year:
| Fall Semester | Winter Break | Spring Semester | Summer |
| Econ 490A: La Ceiba – the Course | One Week Trip to Honduras | Independent Studies/Internships |
Upon graduation, students will already have two years of experience working with and building the capacity of an international development organization.
Structure
Currently, students enrolled in the La Ceiba course receive 3 credit hours. Students accepted into the practicum receive 3 credit hours per semester for the two years they are enrolled (for a total of 12 credit hours). An additional 3 credit hours, counting toward a Spanish course (for Spanish majors/minors) or an elective (for other College of Arts and Sciences majors), are possible if they choose to participate in a four-week summer internship with La Ceiba in Honduras. Practicum credits within the College of Arts and Sciences could count toward a combination of international affairs, economics, women and gender studies, anthropology, sociology and electives, depending on students’ majors.
Dr. Shawn Humphrey and Honduran La Ceiba and SHH staff will be responsible for designing (together with individual students) meaningful internship experiences that align with students’ academic and professional goals.
