IPSS is a “self-starter” program, designed to provide highly motivated students with a participatory learning experience in a professional international environment. The centerpiece of IPSS is a five to six-month assignment as a junior professional at an international organization. The process starts with the student, in conjunction with faculty and staff, identifying an organizational assignment which will provide the professional development needed to complete preparation for a career in a chosen public policy field. Second, IPSS staff contacts that organization to introduce and describe the IPSS program, as well as the student who is requesting assignment. Third, the organization, IPSS staff and the student engage in dialogue which leads to an agreed Terms of Reference (TOR) for a junior professional position with the organization. Each student is responsible for negotiating his/her own TOR with their respective organization. Fourth, once the TOR is provisionally agreed, all three parties begin to prepare for the assignment so that the student can function as an effective staff person from day one of the assignment. Finally, the student performs his/her duties as described in the TOR and is evaluated by his/her supervisor at the end of the assignment. IPSS 8520 is a pre-departure training course that is highly participatory and practically oriented to give you knowledge of and hands-on experience applying core tools and skills you will need to succeed in any professional placement. Attendance at all sessions is required. Attendance and participation will factor into the final course grade. Topics are universally relevant to all participants, regardless of their planned professional placement or specialization. Particular emphasis will be placed on building intercultural competence, leadership and participant observer skills and on six organization observables: organizational structure and theory, organizational partnering, assessment and evaluation, cultural environment/intercultural competence, conflict resolution and negotiation, and gender and equity, which will form the basis for the mid-term and final field reports while on assignment.