The agreements, signed in October, will provide students with opportunities to gain hands-on professional experience, apply classroom knowledge, and explore careers in public service.

Expanding public sector partnerships

The agreements with the DPHSS and DRT, signed Oct. 14, will give UOG students hands-on experience in local government while supporting the agencies' work.

DPHSS Director Theresa Arriola said the department has a history of hosting UOG interns and emphasized the need for a more coordinated approach to student internships. 

“Through this partnership, we are establishing a more streamlined process for communication, coordination, and student internship tracking, while ensuring that students gain meaningful experiential learning opportunities and are prepared for the workforce after graduation,” Arriola said.

For DRT, the agreement will help strengthen its internship program and create opportunities for students from different academic disciplines to gain experience in the agency's operations.

“Student interns can contribute to our services in meaningful ways while gaining hands-on experience aligned with their academic and career goals,” said DRT Director Marie Lizama.

Advancing Regional Ties

University of Guam leaders met with FSM Consul General Johnny Silbanuz at the FSM Consulate Office on Oct. 13 to formalize a partnership that will expand internship opportunities for UOG students.

The agreement will help UOG students from the FSM gain professional experience while preparing for careers in public service and community engagement. The Consulate Office is seeking students studying public administration, political science, and social work who want to develop skills in communications and public relations.

 Through the internship, students will have opportunities to apply what they learn in the classroom while supporting the Consulate Office's work serving the FSM community.

Strengthening student success

Together, the three partnerships underscore UOG's commitment to helping students gain practical experience, prepare for their careers, and contribute to the communities they serve.

The agreements also support the University's broader professional workforce development efforts by connecting students with government agencies where they can develop workplace skills, explore career pathways, and gain public service experience.

Sharleen Santos-Bamba, UOG Senior Vice President and Provost, emphasized the importance of connecting classroom learning with professional experience.

“At UOG, we recognize that a well-rounded education blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on application. The MOUs open up more doors for experiential learning that will benefit our students, the participating agencies, and the communities in Guam and the wider Micronesia region,” Santos-Bamba said.