A Princeton in Latin America (PiLA) fellowship is more than just a job — it’s a life-changing journey that blends deep cultural immersion with meaningful professional experience. For many fellows, PiLA is the launchpad to a career in international development, social justice, education, public health, environmental conservation, or corporate social responsibility in Latin America.
PiLA Fellows gain hands-on experience and real-world skills, working alongside local leaders and organizations that are driving social impact. Whether in a bustling urban center or a small rural community, fellows become part of the communities they serve, learning to navigate challenges with resilience, creativity, and humility.
But the PiLA experience doesn’t stop there — fellows join a vibrant network of changemakers, alumni, and partner organizations, building lifelong relationships that continue to shape their personal and professional trajectories long after their fellowship ends.
Fellowship Logistics
A PiLA fellowship can take many forms — from surveying rainforest biomes in Costa Rica, to monitoring educational programs in the Dominican Republic, to supporting entrepreneurs in Mexico. No matter the placement, every fellowship offers the chance to make a real impact while growing personally and professionally.
Here are a few key things you can expect during your PiLA fellowship year:
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Financial Support: Fellows receive a combination of room, board, and a stipend to meet basic living needs during their service. Exact provisions vary by placement and partner organization.
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Dynamic Placements: Fellows are matched with leading partner organizations working to address pressing issues in fields like education, public health, environmental conservation, entrepreneurship, women's empowerment, and more. You’ll gain hands-on experience tackling real-world challenges that align with your skills and passions.
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Lasting Connections & Community: Throughout the year, fellows have opportunities to connect with one another through virtual orientations and events. Check out our Alumni Spotlight posts to learn more about what our alums have chosen to pursue post-PiLA.
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Mentorship & Ongoing Support: PiLA provides regular check-ins and guidance from staff, as well as access to an alumni mentorship program to help you navigate challenges and make the most of your fellowship experience.
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A Year of Meaningful Impact: Most fellowships last approximately 12 months, with placements finalized in early spring and start dates typically ranging from June to August. While PiLA remains engaged and supportive, fellows are encouraged to embrace autonomy, adapt to new environments, and build strong relationships with their host organizations and communities.
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A Launchpad for Your Future: Above all, a PiLA fellowship is a life-changing year of service, equipping you with the tools, perspectives, and connections to pursue a career of impact — in Latin America and beyond.
Fellowship Opportunities
Princeton in Latin America (PiLA) offers early-career professionals the chance to engage in immersive, hands-on experiences with leading organizations across Latin America and the Caribbean.
Because PiLA partners with a diverse array of organizations, the specific positions available vary from year to year, based on the evolving needs of our partners.
Below are examples of roles available during the 2025-2026 fellowship cycle — though this list is by no means comprehensive. Each fellowship is as unique as the fellows themselves, tailored to align individual skills with meaningful service.
Examples of 2025-2026 Fellowship Roles:
- STEM Instructor — Antigua International School
- Water Safety Fellow — Cova
- Youth Development Fellow — The 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, Colombia
- Communications and Development Fellow — Women’s Justice Initiative
- Operations and Development Fellow — Yspaniola
If you’re passionate about contributing to sustainable change — and eager to gain real-world experience in Latin America — PiLA might be the next step in your journey.
More Than A Fellowship
Since its founding, Princeton in Latin America (PiLA) has placed over 400 passionate and talented fellows in transformative roles across Latin America and the Caribbean — building capacity, advancing equity, and supporting community-led solutions.
Through their service, PiLA Fellows gain invaluable professional and cultural insights, while working alongside local partners to address critical challenges in fields like education, public health, environmental conservation, human rights, and economic development.
The impact of PiLA extends far beyond a single fellowship year — many of our fellows go on to lead impactful careers in international development, social justice, and global engagement, staying connected to the communities and causes they served.
Apply to be a PiLA Fellow Today!
Embark on a journey that will expand your perspective, strengthen your leadership, and equip you to make a meaningful impact in the world.
The PiLA Fellowship is more than just a placement — it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in communities across Latin America and the Caribbean, gain hands-on professional experience, and join a lifelong network of changemakers committed to service and social justice.
Apply today and start your PiLA journey!
