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Do you speak MISTI?

MISTI teaches MIT students the evolving art of innovation by giving them new ways of defining problems, of exploring through collaboration, of finding solutions to puzzles, all while gaining transformative international experience.  MIT students are prepared to speak the language of international collaboration through immersion in the language, history and politics of their host country, intensive retreats and MISTI trainings.

Once prepared, MISTI students plunge into rigorous, hands-on internships and research at leading companies and laboratories worldwide. Students emerge transformed – with the ability to apply their MIT education as a member of an international team working across boundaries and a new perspective that enhances creative thinking.

Your MISTI country program manager will work closely with you to find a host and project aligned with your skills and interests.  Before you can be placed with a host, you must meet your country program’s requirements. For undergraduates, most MISTI programs require proficiency in the language of the host country, good academic standing at MIT and completion of country-specific courses and preparation.  

Once you have been matched with a host company or research institution, interns are expected to attend several MISTI-designed training sessions throughout the spring. These events cover logistics, history, politics and society so that you can confidently navigate a foreign culture and workplace.