TRAINING AND INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

MAST International is an international exchange program that combines a practical, hands-on, educational experience in agriculture with a classroom experience through the University of Minnesota.  MAST International began in 1949 with an exchange of agricultural students between Minnesota and Sweden.  Since then, more than 5,500 trainees from over 65 countries have participated in the program.

In 2008, MAST International will offer an Internship Program in addition to our current Training Program in Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing.  Both programs are designed to enhance the skills and expertise of exchange visitors in these fields, however they have slightly different qualifications and regulations which are described in more detail on the next page.

FEATURES OF THE PROGRAM

Practical Experience

Trainees and Interns have the opportunity to live in a different culture and acquire new skills through a hands-on learning experience in agriculture.  They are exposed to a variety of technologies, skill-building experiences, and agricultural opportunities to further their knowledge and interests.  Trainees and Interns are placed with approved and qualified host trainers.

Semester Study Program

Trainees and Interns may choose to enhance their practical experience with a semester of classes at the University of Minnesota.  This opportunity is a unique aspect of the MAST International program.  Participants sit in on lectures, participate in labs, and interact with distinguished professors and students from the U.S. and around the world.  This exchange of ideas promotes mutual understanding and builds long-term international relationships.

Cultural Opportunities

In addition to the practical experience and semester study program, Trainees and Interns learn about daily life in the United States, make friends from around the world, and gain an appreciation of their own and others’ cultures.  MAST Alumni value the friendships they make with Americans as well as with people from all over the world.

MAST International is a program of the University of Minnesota College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, and is designated by the U.S. Department of State as an Exchange Visitor Program.