A Princeton in Latin America (PiLA) fellowship experience is often described as a transformational experience, both for personal and professional development and growth. It is often also the start of a career in development or social responsibility in Latin America. PiLA Fellows gain hands-on experience, cultural immersion, and professional growth, developing the tools needed to drive meaningful change. More than just participants, they become part of a dynamic network of changemakers, forging lifelong connections and shaping the future of global engagement.
The fellowship experience varies greatly depending on placement and organization. Some Fellows work closely with a supervisor or colleague(s); others work more independently. Some Fellows work in offices that are filled with local staff; others work with a high number of North American expatriates. Some Fellows live in urban areas like Mexico City or Lima; and others are based in semi-urban and rural areas with limited resources.
Generally, all fellowships last approximately 12 months. Placements are finalized in the early spring and start dates range from June to August. While PiLA will remain in touch with fellows and partner organizations during the term, we would like to stress that fellows must be resilient and take direct responsibility managing their day-to-day working relationships with partners while in the field.
Overview
A PiLA fellowship experience can take many forms, from surveying the rainforest biome in Costa Rica, to monitoring educational programming in the Dominican Republic, to supporting entrepreneurs in Mexico. Regardless of your placement location, here are a few things you can expect as a fellow:
- A combination of room, board and a stipend to meet your basic needs during your fellowship service. Exact amounts and provisions vary from organization to organization.
- A dynamic placement at one of our leading partner organizations tackling real-world challenges in education, public health, environmental conservation, microfinance and more.
- Support as you navigate your fellowship experience, ranging from alumni mentorship programs to regular check-ins with PiLA staff.
- Opportunities to connect with other fellows via virtual orientations and events.
- A life-changing year of service!
Transformative Opportunities
Princeton in Latin America (PiLA) provides early-career professionals with immersive, hands-on experiences in Latin America and the Caribbean. Fellows collaborate with leading organizations, tackling real-world challenges in education, public health, environmental conservation, microfinance, and more. Positions available with PiLA vary year to year depending on the needs of our partner organizations. Below are some examples of roles that are available with PiLA during the 2025-2026 fellowship cycle. It should be noted that this list is by no means comprehensive - our fellowship opportunities are as unique as our candidates themselves!
- STEM Instructor - Antigua International School
- Water Safety Fellow - Cova
- Youth Development Fellow - DREAM Project
- Accreditation and Communications Liaison - EARTH University
- Finance Fellow - Endeavor Mexico
- Facilitator of English Language - Honduras Independence Bilingual School
- Theater Fellow - The Mariposa DR Foundation
- Terrestrial Termite Density and Ecology Assessment Fellow - OSA Conservation
- Women's Health Program Associate - Partners for Andean Community Health
- International Cooperation Project Analyst - Ronald McDonald House Foundation
- Communications and Development Fellow - Women's Justice Initiative
- Operations and Development Fellow - Yspañiola
A Legacy of Impact
Since its inception, PiLA has placed over 400 talented individuals in meaningful roles that create lasting change. Fellows gain professional and cultural insights while making a difference in their communities. Learn more about our fellows' service experiences here.
More Than a Fellowship
PiLA is a bridge to a global network of passionate change-makers. Alumni leave the program with lifelong connections, enhanced skills, and a deepened commitment to service and social impact. Learn more about what our fellows do after their year of service here.
Join the Movement
Embark on a journey that expands your perspective, strengthens your leadership, and equips you to contribute meaningfully to the world. The PiLA experience is more than just a placement—it’s a stepping stone to a lifetime of impact. So, what are you waiting for?
