Open to all majors from all Universities!

The Global Engagement Program (GEP) offers academic coursework related to global issues and a field experience through internships. In New York City, there are a wealth of opportunities to gain hands on experience in global affairs. The presence of the United Nations Secretariat and beyond open possibilities  for all majors interested in global engagement including education, the arts, the social and natural sciences, and business. The program is a global experience while remaining within New York state.

Students obtain a globally engaged internship in New York City, attend a weekly seminar and conduct a major research project earning 12-15 credits. The goal of this program is to gain field experience, specialize in a specific subject matter, demonstrate multicultural and interpersonal communication skills and become fluent in the current state of global challenges.  Students  develop expertise on intergovernmental organizations like the UN and non-profit sector engagement.

Applications are considered on a rolling basis and a maximum of 20 students will be admitted to the program. We strongly encourage students to apply early.

Contact Professor Ozler for more information: ozleri@newpaltz.edu

Office Hours and Location:
Tuesdays, 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Jacobson Faculty Tower (JFT), Room 912

SUNY New Paltz
Major: International Relations
United Nations Department of
Global Communications
Public Information Intern

I had the privilege of serving as a Public Information Intern with the Creative Community Outreach Initiative and Messenger of Peace Programme under the United Nations Department of Global Communications. In this role, I worked to foster relationships between the UN, its various agencies, and the entertainment and sports industries, amplifying global issues and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. This internship allowed me to explore the dynamic intersection of communications and international relations, demonstrating how storytelling can drive global change.

While the professional growth I’ve experienced is invaluable, the true highlight of my time at the UN has been the relationships I’ve built—the opportunity to learn from colleagues whose careers are as inspiring as their dedication is unmatched. Everyone I’ve encountered embodies an exceptional work ethic and passion for the UN’s mission, making them some of the most incredible individuals I’ve had the honor to work alongside. As a UN intern, you’re not only supporting your team—you’re expected to contribute as a capable, professional member, producing work ready for global impact. In addition to my internship, participating in the Global Engagement Program (GEP) was an invaluable bridge between my final semester of undergraduate study and life as a young professional. Through the seminar, I engaged with complex topics shaping the field of international affairs, from the implications of artificial intelligence to the evolving role of civil society, all while learning from classmates with diverse perspectives and internship experiences. The research colloquium allowed me to deeply explore media framing, further examining the dynamic intersection of communications and international affairs through an academic lens.

One of my favorite aspects of GEP was the access to incredible speaker events. From hearing insights from GEP alums who charted impressive careers to attending events at prestigious venues like the Harvard Club, I gained exposure to a wide array of professionals I might never have encountered otherwise. These experiences expanded my network and helped me envision the many possibilities post-GEP. GEP gave me the confidence, clarity, and connections to shape my future.

SUNY New Paltz
Major: International Relations
Minor: Law and Politics
United Nations Office of
Counter-Terrorism
Political Affairs Intern

After spending three transformative months at the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, I am deeply fulfilled and proud of my contributions to advancing global peace and security. As a political affairs intern, I immersed myself in various projects on youth empowerment and engagement, strategic online communication materials, and conducted data evaluations within the monitoring and evaluation unit. One of the highlights of my internship was assisting in planning an expert forum at the United Nations headquarters, which aimed to address new and emerging trends in terrorism, including gaming, AI, and climate change.

I am proud to have collaborated with an inspiring team dedicated to combating and preventing violent extremism. Their invaluable contributions have significantly fueled my personal and professional growth. This experience has equipped me with profound insights into working effectively within a culturally diverse group, managing tight project deadlines, and navigating the complexities of the United Nations.

None of this would have been possible without the Global Engagement Program (GEP), which played a vital role in helping me secure this remarkable opportunity and continuously prepared me for the next steps in my career. Whether it involves debating with other peers on pressing global challenges, exploring graduate programs and various career pathways, or supporting me in my research in exploring the links between climate change and terrorism, GEP has always pushed me to reach my full potential!

Research Analyst:
Designs, Data, Decisions (D3)

My time in the Global Engagement Program was the right kind of challenge. It taught the importance of looking past the deceptively simple first explanations in world politics and conflict. The training to look deeper at the issues gave me a stable base from which to pursue a dual grad program at the Maxwell School, and eventually brought me to Washington, DC. I now run international public opinion studies on communities all over the world for public, private, and nonprofit entities, including in hard-to-reach countries and where the public is tightly monitored.

Click the button below to learn more about where our alumni have interned!

Participation in the Global Engagement Program charges the same tuition rate as SUNY New Paltz, except for an $1,000 program fee, a $400 administrative fee, and a $25 application fee.* Most of the cost is billable and can be met with financial aid, as can your housing costs if you choose to live at the 92nd Street Y.

* Fees are subject to change and may vary depending upon residency and academic level.

Where do GEP students live?

Students have the option of securing their own housing in New York City. However, students can also choose to live in two locations we suggest, 92Y or Brooklyn Housing in Williamsburg.   Sleeping arrangements are similar to that of a dorm, and the housing currently is not billable through SUNY New Paltz.

How will I obtain an internship?

When students apply to the Global Engagement Program, they are tasked to fill out a form that describes their academic interests and ideal placements. Using this information, Professor Ozler assists students in finding an internship, although the final step of securing the internship is in the students’ hands.

What are the eligibility requirements?
Students who have interest in global engagement, have 45 credits or more, and a recommended GPA of 3.0 or above.

What will be covered in the seminar class and the research symposium?

The seminar is designed to give students a broad understanding of the relationship between states, intergovernmental organizations and international and local nongovernmental organizations in global governance. The course aims to give students a social scientific understanding of their position and impact in the internships. Throughout the semester, students will be asked to reflect on their own experiences and the position of their NGOs in relation to the readings.

What are some benefits of the Global Engagement Program?

Participation in the GEP gives students real world experience in global affairs. After graduating college and searching for jobs, the experience students have through the GEP is beneficial to gaining employment. Further, academic rigor gives students a nuanced understanding of the operations of large-scale actors, the cohort becomes tight-knit, GEP students get access to a vast and engaged alumni network, and a semester living in New York City offers excitement and opportunity.

Go to https://www.newpaltz.edu/gep/ to begin your search or click the button below to apply through our online brochure!

Our deadline to apply is April 1! Early applications are always encouraged, as we will stop accepting applications once we accept 20 students.

Feel free to email gep@newpaltz.edu with any questions, comments, concerns, or general inquiries!