“I spent the spring 2004 semester pursuing an internship for credit that took me across the ocean to Switzerland, where I worked at the UN’s International Labour Organization (ILO). I worked directly with several economists from across the globe analyzing labor market policies in Latin America, and interacted with government officials and other researchers from around the world.

“It quickly became normal to sit at a table with five different individuals representing five separate nations, five separate cultures, heritages, and ideologies. These social and intellectual interactions furthered my development in ways that were not possible at Cornell. My knowledge from ILR, however, enabled me to fully absorb the offerings of my stimulating surroundings. The international experience rounded out my education and created fond memories.

“Working in a research division at the ILO has opened my eyes to the merit of research and how helpful it will be to my future. It has propelled my desire to gain knowledge and confront the world’s challenges through academic pursuits. I look ahead to future endeavors and greet them with enthusiasm that I attribute largely to my time abroad, which fostered increased self-confidence and awareness.”

—Matthew Schneid, ILR Connections, Fall 2004

See Also

• Matthew Schneid International Programs Profile