Universities frequently fund projects that offer opportunities for those interested in internships. Check with the university closest to you or in the school's paper under the classified ads like in the Daily Bruin. There are also occasional offers on LA Craigslist.

For help with securing an internship and a J-1 Visa, Interexchange has a list of international partner countries which will arrange a meeting in your home country, then find a suitable international internship. The agency also helps arrange flight information, processes all Visa and embassy paperwork, and offers discounted insurance to those within the program.