Reports from the Field

Top 6 Ways To Fund Your Internship Abroad

Top 6 Ways To Fund Your Internship Abroad

There are lots of reasons to choose an international internship program: traveling opportunities, building your industry skills, experiencing another culture…just to name a few. If you’ve got the time and a desire for new experiences, taking an international internship position should seem like a no brainer!

Unfortunately, for many individuals, there is one significant roadblock standing in the way of the international internship experience of a lifetime: finances. That’s right, for many individuals, money (or lack thereof) is the primary reason they don’t pursue opportunities to intern abroad.

Although some internships include a stipend or salary for their participants, there are still costs associated with working abroad that make it difficult to truly profit from an international internship. In fact, most people spend money interning abroad, rather than make money.

First of all, the concept of traveling internationally for an internship implies travel expenses. From plane tickets to accommodation fees, the costs can start to add up quickly. This doesn’t include any additional weekend traveling you might want to do…after all, when you’re working in another country, why not explore a bit?

So what’s a person to do? If you are anything like most intern applicants, you probably aren’t loaded with extra cash to float your lifestyle while you intern abroad.

If you hoping to work as an intern abroad, but you’re looking for a way to fund your internship, here are a few ideas:

  1. Scholarships
    Did you know there are a multitude of scholarships available for students who want to intern abroad? Since internships are becoming highly sought after credentials in a job candidate, more and more companies and organizations are willing to invest funds in scholarship programs to help make international internships more accessible.Here are a few internship scholarships that could make your internship dreams a reality:

2. Part-Time Job
It might not sound glamorous, but if you need some extra cash to cover living expenses during your internship, a part-time job could do the trick. Taking a part-time job working at a local coffee shop or restaurant will give you a unique cultural perspective. This job could serve as a means for meeting new people, brushing up on your language skills, and truly experiencing the local culture.

3. University Financial Aid
Having a significant percentage of their student population participating in internship programs is a point of pride for more colleges and universities. As a result, many schools offer financial aid to their students who need some assistance covering the cost of their internship. If you are currently enrolled in a college or university, contact your financial aid department and see if you qualify for institutional aid.

4. Take Out A Loan
What’s the traditional way to cover costs for something when you lack the on-hand cash? A good ol’ fashioned loan. If you’ve exhausted your other options, traditional bank loans and, in some cases, educational Stafford loans can be used to cover the expense of interning abroad.

5.Crowdsourcing
Crowdsourcing is a fundraising method that is growing in popularity! It is based on the assumption that there are more than likely people you already know (friends, family, colleagues etc.) that believe in the importance of your internship opportunity and would be happy to support you financially if given the chance. Crowdsourcing platforms such as GoFundMe, FundMyTravel, and Kickstarter, make it easy to share your story with others and start collecting funds for your program.

6.Save Money
Last but not least, if you know you want to participate in an international internship, start saving money. This may require taking a look at your current expenses and cutting back on non-essential expenditures. For example, instead of going for that $5 latte today or spending a small fortune on this year’s winter wardrobe, put that money towards your internship costs instead.

 

Interning abroad comes with expenses, there’s no way around that. However, the costs associated with an international internship shouldn’t deter you from participating in this life-changing and career-altering experience. Check out the list above and use these tips to fund your internship program today!

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Mikayla Colthirst-Reid
Posted on: 10 Feb 2020

Mikayla is a Global Nomadic contributor of awesome and engaging content to help inform Global Nomads!

4 Great Internships For People With Families

4 Great Internships For People With Families

Internships can be an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to build their resume or gain valuable new skills and experiences.

For many individuals, they participate in an internship program as part of their college educational experience. Perhaps they spend their summer break working as an intern, or they may extend their program by a semester or year in order to fit in an internship.

But guess what? Internships aren’t only for twenty year old college sophomores looking to gain experience before they graduate. For some individuals, it makes sense to take an internship after you’ve already started your career, and perhaps your family as well.

Maybe you’re thinking of a career change and want to gain experience in a different industry.  Perhaps you want to give your family the gift of travel, and an internship abroad provides the financial means to do that.

Whatever the reason you are considering an internship placement, having a family should not prevent you from pursuing this goal.

  • “But I can’t take 6 months away from my full time job…we have bills to pay!”
  • “I can’t afford to work for free, even if it is a great opportunity! My children rely on my salary.”

Obviously, keeping a roof over your child’s head and food on the table is of the utmost importance! However, those needs don’t have to prevent you from choosing an internship program. If you are looking for an international internship that can accommodate the needs of someone with a family, here are a few you should consider:

Cambodia: TEFL Course and English Teaching

Cambodia-Teaching

If you think you might want to be a teacher but haven’t obtained a teaching degree yet, this internship is for you! This program starts with a 4 week training in which you will learn the basic skills you will need to teach English in a classroom setting. Following the training you will be given a teaching placement in a local Cambodian school, where you will work for the duration of one school year.

This program offers a paid salary to its participants, a necessity when supporting a family. It also provides flexibility in living accommodations. The program directors will assist you in finding housing that meets your family’s needs.

If you’d like to gain teaching experience and clarify whether or not this is the career for you, Cambodian internship might be the perfect fit.

Czech Republic: TEFL Training and English Teaching

teach English in Prague

Prague is widely considered one of the most beautiful and historically rich cities in the world. An internship program in this East European cultural center is an experience unlike any other.

This program provides extensive teacher training followed by a year-long placement in a local school. Teachers will receive a monthly salary and assistance in finding appropriate accommodations for your family.

Another major benefit to interning in Prague is that the city’s low cost of living makes it possible to enjoy the world-renowned food, beer, and social scene. If your family is looking for a European adventure and cultural experience unlike any other, this is one internship program you don’t want to miss.

Costa Rica: Cloud Forest Nature Reserve Volunteer

Education Research Internship in Costa Rica

Taking an entire semester (or in some cases, a full year) for an internship program, particularly if that program is unpaid, can be difficult, if not impossible, for those with families. Luckily, there are some internship programs, such as this Costa Rican internship, that can be worked around your schedule and only require a two-week commitment.

If you’re interested in environmental conservation and the prospect of spending your days in a nature reserve fills you with excitement, this internship may be right for you. When you aren’t assisting teams of conservations or working with visiting student groups, you’ll be able to enjoy hiking on the countless trails or swimming in the pristine mountain rivers.

Guatemala: Medical and Healthcare Project

Guatemala: Medical and Healthcare Project

Another great internship program for those who require a shorter time commitment, this Guatemalan medical internship is a wonderful opportunity to offer your medical knowledge and expertise to help underprivileged communities.

Due to the extreme poverty in Guatemala, there are many towns and villages that do not have regular access to quality medical care.  Interested individuals with a medical background will be matched with a position that best utilizes your specific skills. If you have two weeks this year to make a difference for people in need while simultaneously strengthening your resume, this internship is for you.

International internships uniquely combine job skills training and networking opportunities with once in a lifetime travel experiences. The variety of programs available makes it possible for anyone to participate in an internship. Regardless of your state in life or career position, there are internship opportunities available that can accommodate the needs of your family.

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Mikayla Colthirst-Reid
Posted on: 10 Feb 2020

Mikayla is a Global Nomadic contributor of awesome and engaging content to help inform Global Nomads!

8 Things To Do During Your Sabbatical Leave

8 Things To Do During Your Sabbatical Leave

A sabbatical leave is an intentional time away from your usual work in order to focus your time and energy on something different.

If you are lucky enough to work for a company that offers sabbatical leave to its employees, take advantage of it! At some point or another, we all could benefit from a pause in our “regularly scheduled programming” to rest, refresh, and try something new!

Regardless of how much you enjoy your day job, and we certainly hope you do, a sabbatical leave may allow you to refocus your goals and enjoy valuable experiences that aren’t always possible during your normal work schedule.

Now here’s the million-dollar question…what are you going to do with your sabbatical leave?

There’s no “one size fits all” program for sabbatical leave. The way that you spend your time off is entirely up to you! Not sure where to begin? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  1. Participate In An Internship ProgramA sabbatical leave is the perfect time to learn something new and develop skills that can help you when you return to your day job. There are internship programs all over the world that are looking for hardworking and enthusiastic individuals to fill their internship spots. If career advancement is part of your future goals, spending your sabbatical learning and working in an internship is an excellent choice.
  2. Volunteer In Your Local Community
    If you are looking to make a difference and get involved in your community, volunteering a great option! You don’t have to go far to serve others and make an impact. Regardless of your background (medicine, business, carpentry etc.) there is a need for volunteers with your specific skill set.
  3. Travel the World
    Are there places you’ve always wanted to see, but you haven’t had the time? Why not now? A sabbatical leave is a perfect time to take your dream destinations off the bucket list. With advances in technology making plan the trip of a lifetime easier and more affordable than ever before, you might consider traveling for at least a portion of your time off.
  4. Start A Side Hustle
    You know that business idea you’ve always had in the back of your mind but haven’t had time to invest in? The one you’ve always been itching to try because you just have a hunch it’ll work? Businesses are like babies…they require a lot of time and attention when they are first started. Sabbatical leave is a great time to start your side hustle because you will have the freedom and time to give your budding business the attention it needs.
  5. Spend Time With Loved Ones
    Sabbatical leave is a great time to take a break from the hustle and bustle of normal life and get back to focusing on what is truly important. As you make your plans, considering taking intentional time to spend with friends and family. You won’t regret investing time in your most significant relationships.
  6. Try A New Hobby
    You’ve always wanted to learn to paint. Or perhaps for you, it’s woodworking or playing guitar. Having a hobby is a great way to unwind, relax and have some fun. Whether you take a class or watch a series of YouTube videos, this is a great time to pick up a new hobby.
  7. Make Time For Goal Setting
    Sabbatical leave is a great time to take a step back and evaluate your life. Where are you now? What are your future goals? Take advantage of the time off to do some soul-searching reflection and planning for the future.
  8. Tackle Your To-Do List
    “I’ll get to it later!” We’ve all said it about so many things. Well, it’s later! A sabbatical leave is a perfect opportunity to tackle the projects that you simply don’t have the availability or mental capacity to handle normally. So redo that kitchen and organize your garage! It’s time to start crossing things off the “to-do” list.

If you’ve got a sabbatical leave coming up, take some time to intentionally think about how your time on leave will be best spent. Whether you are learning to play an instrument, taking on an international internship, volunteering at a local soup kitchen, or backpacking through Europe, we hope you find your sabbatical leave to be restorative and enriching.

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Mikayla Colthirst-Reid
Posted on: 10 Feb 2020

Mikayla is a Global Nomadic contributor of awesome and engaging content to help inform Global Nomads!

Internship Opportunities for Liberal Arts Majors

Internship Opportunities for Liberal Arts Majors

Internships are becoming commonplace and even expected in fields like engineering or business. If you’re applying for an engineering job and you don’t have internship experience on your resume, you’re likely to raise a few eyebrows.

But did you know that internships are valuable for liberal arts majors as well?

A liberal arts degree provides ample opportunities for individuals to form critical skills such as appreciation of diversity and other cultures, problem-solving and reflective thinking, and an ability to communicate effectively through both writing and speech. These soft skills are essential for work in just about any industry and are highly desirable amongst employers.

In fact, many employers are turning away applicants who may have the necessary technical skills to do the job, if they don’t also possess the soft skills needed for being a reliable and productive member of a team.

The drawback of a liberal arts degree is the lack of hands-on field experience built within the educational program itself. This is where internships come in handy. They provide the opportunity to apply your liberal arts knowledge while gaining important industry skills.

If you are a liberal arts major looking to boost your resume and gain some valuable work experience and networking connections, here are a few internships you should check out:

Media & Journalism Internships

 

Photography-Internship-in-Singapore

Journalism is an excellent field for those with a thirst for knowledge and a passion for storytelling. These internships provide the opportunity for cultural immersion and expanding your worldview in addition to an education in technical writing and photography skills.

You might be interested in a media or journalism internship if you have a background in writing, photography, videography, and the obvious, journalism. Here are a few excellent international internships you don’t want to miss:

Finance Internships

singapore-finance-internship-cover

The world of finance is a challenging and ever-changing industry. It’s a field in which book knowledge is important but hands-on experience is also necessary. If you are hoping to land a job in the financial or economic sector, you won’t regret participating in an internship program.

Finance internships are ideal for those with a background in economics, finance, or accounting. If this sounds right up your alley, check out these international internships:

Teaching Internships

If you love to travel and other cultures fascinate you, teaching abroad might be for you! The daily work of instructing students and communicating with parents, families, and colleagues, will provide a cultural immersion experience unlike any other. The school day work schedule also allows time for evening adventures and weekend travels.

As many teaching abroad opportunities offer TEFL certification, you are not required to have an education degree to participate. If you’re interested in trying your hand at teaching, here are a few programs you don’t want to miss:

Art & Design Internships

Art-and-Technology-project-in-Buenos-Aires

Practice makes perfect, right? As any artist or designer knows, you won’t excel in your field without taking time to practice and refine your craft. Interning abroad is the perfect opportunity to stretch your design muscles. As you explore new lands and experience different cultures, you are sure to be hit with plenty of artistic inspiration.

If you are looking for an internship opportunity to put on your graduate school applications and resumes, or you’re simply looking for the chance to get creative and put your skills to good use, here are a few international internship programs you don’t want to miss:

If you’ve ever thought you couldn’t get an international internship with your liberal arts background, think again. Regardless of your background or field of study, there are internship programs available for everyone!

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Mikayla Colthirst-Reid
Posted on: 10 Feb 2020

Mikayla is a Global Nomadic contributor of awesome and engaging content to help inform Global Nomads!

3 Amazing International  Internships For Aspiring Lawyers

You can see it now… your name displayed in your law firm’s logo. You’ve put in your time, working your way through the ranks. You’ve made partner! Of course, there are a few key steps to take before that coveted title becomes yours–starting with being hired by your first law firm.

What sets truly exceptional job applicants apart from the rest? Hands-on experience.

Book knowledge is important (especially when considering a field that requires an in-depth knowledge of specific laws and regulations) but nothing quite compares to the practical knowledge gained from practicing a skill and immersing yourself within the work environment.

Adding an internship to your resume is the perfect way to prove to potential employers that you not only possess the head knowledge required for the position, but you also have the practical skills and industry experience to back that up.

If you are an aspiring lawyer looking for ways to boost your resume, here are three international internship programs you definitely need to check out! 

    1. Malawi: Wildlife Justice Legal Internship

If you’ve got a heart for protecting wildlife, this Malawian internship might be for you. Travel to this South African country to join the ranks of those fighting against what has become the world’s fourth-largest transnational crime: illegal wildlife trade.

As animal poaching and illegal trading have become more and more prevalent in Malawi, so have the efforts to combat these crimes. The Malawian government has partnered with non-profit organizations to increase the monitoring and prosecution of wildlife crimes.

As an intern in this program, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside court monitors and lawyers in analyzing courtroom data and doing valuable research needed for each case. You will also be involved in education and animal advocacy efforts, aimed at spreading awareness of the growing wildlife trading problem.

This is the perfect internship for individuals with a passion for animals and a willing readiness to immerse yourself in an important social cause. The insider skills and industry experience you’ll pick up during your time in Malawi will truly enhance your resume and make you a well-rounded lawyer.

 

2. Bangkok: Law Internship

law internship in Thailand

Interested in business and economic litigation? As the economy continues to grow in Thailand, so does the number of international businesses looking to expand within this market. The highly regulated and controlled Thai economy makes the jobs of lawyers and aspiring lawyers, like yourself, all the more important.

This internship will provide you many opportunities to strengthen and practice your law skills. Interns will have the opportunity to work in corporate law, criminal law, and administrative law. Throughout your work in each law sector, you will be closely supervised by a mentor who is available for support.

Being located in Thailand, this internship will also give you familiarity with another nation’s legal system, an asset few other aspiring lawyers can claim.

You will be hard-pressed to find another internship as well-rounded as this opportunity in Bangkok. The program supervisors work hard to give you the skills, direct mentorship, and opportunities you’ll need to become an exceptional lawyer.

3. Tanzania: Human Rights and Legal Aid Internship

Human Rights & Legal Aid Internship in Tanzania
Due to historical and cultural views of women in Tanzania, many women are finding themselves in a place of destitution when they lack men in their lives to provide for their financial needs. Non-profit organizations and Legal Aid clinics are working tirelessly to support women and children who find themselves in these positions, in addition to educating the public.

Individuals who participate in this internship program will have the opportunity to work closely with women in need, helping them prepare for important court proceedings. Interns will also help run educational workshops, and even spend time in court.

If you’re looking for a program that will give you courtroom experience and the opportunity to work closely with lawyers and paralegals, book your flight to Tanzania because this internship is for you.

Potential employers love to see applicants with internship experience on their resume. Seizing the opportunity to enhance your law skills while experiencing another culture is a no-brainer! Not only will these internships improve your qualifications for job applications, they will also truly be a once in a lifetime experience you will never forget.

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Mikayla Colthirst-Reid
Posted on: 03 Dec 2019

Mikayla is a Global Nomadic contributor of awesome and engaging content to help inform Global Nomads!

Four Must-See Countries to Visit For Your Internship Abroad

When it comes to interning abroad, the sky is truly the limit! There are internship programs for every industry, background, and personality in just about every corner of the globe.

Always wanted to visit Europe? There’s an internship for that! Have you dreamed about journeying to Africa? There are plenty of internship programs that could take you there.

Of course, internships are about far more than satisfying your travel bug. They are a fantastic addition to your resume and a wonderful way to refine your work-related skills, making you a more qualified and competent applicant when it comes time to find a job.

International internships offer the perfect combination of hands-on job experience and once in a lifetime travel opportunities. If you are looking for an exciting destination for your international internship, here are a few countries you should check out:

  1. Cambodia

Cambodia-female-empowerment


Located in Southeastern Asia, Cambodia offers unique experiences for individuals who choose to intern there. The diverse landscape offers beautiful sandy beaches, dense jungles, and an idyllic countryside.

For history lovers, Cambodia is also home to one of the 7 Wonders of the World and the largest religious monument in the world: Angkor Wat. This expansive array of temples was built in the 12th century and is considered an architectural masterpiece! A weekend trip to Angkor Wat is worth putting on your internship bucket list.

If you are interested in a unique cultural experience, an internship in Cambodia might be for you! Here are a few Cambodian internship programs you should check out:


2. New Zealand

Environmental Conservation in New Zealand

Despite frequently being cast in the shadow of its more famous next-door neighbor, Australia, New Zealand has much to offer interested interns. If you’ve ever seen the well-loved Lord of the Rings franchise, you’re already familiar with how beautiful this small island nation truly is.

From the snow-covered mountain ranges to the beautiful coastal beaches, New Zealand is known to have some of the most breathtaking views this world has to offer. In addition to its incredible landscape, New Zealand is home to a variety of unique animal species including several bird species who do not have the ability to fly.

If seeing animals that can’t be found anywhere else in the world sparks your interest, check out these New Zealand internships:


3. Peru

environmental-research-volunteer peru

Why should you consider choosing Peru for your next internship? Two words: Machu Picchu. Another of the 7 Wonders of the World, this ancient Incan citadel is worth a visit. While interning in Peru, you won’t regret taking a weekend trip to tour Machu Picchu.

In addition to historical architecture, Peru’s capital of Lima is known for being a go-to spot for foodies. If you want a truly immersive cultural experience while enjoying a good meal, grab a bite at one of the local Peruvian restaurants…it’s sure to be a dinner you won’t forget.

Sound appealing? Check out these incredible internship opportunities and experience the wonders of Peru for yourself:


4. Fiji

Divemaster-Internship-in-Fiji-and-Thailand


Tropical climate. Sandy beaches. Beautiful landscapes. What’s not to love? Fiji is well known for being an island paradise. If you consider yourself an outdoor enthusiast, unique outdoor adventures in Fiji are not in short supply.

Surrounded by the Great Astrolabe Reef, Fiji offers incredible opportunities for diving and encountering some of the world’s most incredible marine wildlife. You can also experience Fiji’s unique and endangered animals at Kula Eco Park.

If you want an internship that will feel like a tropical vacation, check out these internship programs in Fiji:

 

One of the best parts of choosing an international internship over a local program is the opportunity to see and experience other amazing places. Interning in another country allows the unique opportunity for a deep cultural immersion that your standard vacation does not. If you’re ready for the adventure of a lifetime while simultaneously boosting your resume, consider interning in one of these four amazing destinations.

 

Resources:

https://theculturetrip.com/asia/cambodia/articles/13-reasons-why-you-should-visit-cambodia-at-least-once-in-your-lifetime/

https://www.tourismcambodia.com/attractions/angkor/angkor-wat.htm

https://thepointsguy.com/2017/06/why-you-should-go-to-peru/

https://www.traveller.com.au/twenty-reasons-to-visit-fiji-1yuoz

 

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Mikayla Colthirst-Reid
Posted on: 03 Dec 2019

Mikayla is a Global Nomadic contributor of awesome and engaging content to help inform Global Nomads!

7 Myths About International Internships Debunked

7 myths about international internships debunked

Internships are becoming an increasingly common practice amongst young people looking to spruce up their resumes and improve their professional marketability. From the network connections to the mentoring opportunities, there are plenty of reasons to dedicate some time to learning as an intern.

International internships are also gaining traction with travel lovers. These opportunities combine valuable work experiences with the chance to explore new places and immerse yourself within another culture.

Despite the growing interest and popularity of internship programs, there are still several internship misconceptions that may cause many individuals to roll their eyes at the thought of participating in an international internship program.

Here are the top 7 Internship Myths Debunked!

1. Interns Only Do Menial Work
You can thank TV shows and movies for this one. Famous sitcoms, like The Office, often portray their interns as lazy or underutilized members of the team. Many people assume, as Hollywood has portrayed, that the job of an intern begins and ends with brewing coffee and making copies. It’s no wonder many individuals aren’t enthused by the possibility of an internship position! How boring!

However, in reality, interns are usually given specific tasks and projects to work on with the guidance of a qualified mentor. They are welcomed as part of the team and given opportunities to develop important skills that can be used in their professional careers.

2. Internships At Startup Companies Aren’t Worth It
Many people assume that the only internships worth taking are the ones at large, established companies, such as Google or Proctor & Gamble. Although these larger companies have excellent, well-established internship programs, smaller startup companies have a lot to offer as well.

Smaller companies offer often their interns greater responsibilities. You’re also more likely to serve the team in a variety of ways, allowing to gain a wider skill set and learn a lot about the industry.

3. Internships Are Only For College Students
More often than not, when people think of international internships, they immediately associate them with college study abroad programs. However, there are plenty of internship programs that are not university-affiliated and are looking for qualified participants of any age. For example, this Ecuadorian Entrepreneurship program favors applicants with professional business experience. Likewise, this Jamaican Veterinary Internship is ideal for professional veterinarians and veterinary nurses.

Even if you’ve already graduated and begun your career, internships are a wonderful way to refine your professional skills and share your knowledge with others.

4. If They Don’t Pay You, They Aren’t Worth It
There are huge discrepancies when it comes to internship compensation. Some internships offer hourly wages or salaries to their interns. Others provide stipends and other perks such as living or travel expenses. Still, others may (by financial necessity) require you as the intern to pay for certain parts of your program.

Many believe that you can judge the quality of an internship program by the amount of money they pay their interns. However, as previously discussed, there can be a huge value in working with smaller startup companies. Although they may not be able to pay as much (or at all) as larger, well-established corporations, these smaller companies offer hands-on experience in a variety of settings that larger companies (due to their size) are unable to accommodate.

5. International Internships Are Only In Europe
It is a widely held belief that if you’re wanting to work abroad, you’re going to be interning in Europe. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth! Although there are many amazing internship programs within European companies, countries all over the world are looking for highly qualified applicants to fill their internship positions.

Where have you always wanted to go? Perhaps you’ve always wanted to see Australia or travel to Japan. Whatever your dream destination happens to be, there is an amazing internship opportunity waiting for you.

6. Internships Abroad Are One Big Party
International internships offer unique opportunities for travel and adventure. How often do you get the opportunity to explore another country and immerse yourself in their culture?

However, because of the unique opportunities available for interns abroad, these programs are sometimes lumped into the same category as vacations or Spring Break trips, earning them the reputation of being a non-stop party.

Although this may become the experience for a small handful of interns, for the vast majority, internship programs are hard work and have high standards of professionalism. Internships offer so much more than a vacation.


7. If I Don’t Speak The Language, I Can’t Go
It’s a common misconception that you have to be proficient in order to participate in an internship program. This false belief has led many individuals to limit their internship search to only English speaking countries.

Not only is language proficiency not a requirement for many international internships, but there are also plenty of programs, such as this Chinese Language Exchange program, that actually require applicants to speak fluent English, not Chinese. Other programs, such as this Panda Care internship, offer language lessons as part of the internship.

Going on a project is also a great excuse to learn a new language!

 

International internships are an opportunity unlike any other. They offer valuable professional training combined with unique cultural experiences. Don’t let these common myths hold you back from the opportunity of a lifetime!

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Mikayla Colthirst-Reid
Posted on: 15 Nov 2019

Mikayla is a Global Nomadic contributor of awesome and engaging content to help inform Global Nomads!

Top 10 Reasons To Be An Intern (Even If You’ve Already Started Your Career)

Top ten reasons to be an intern cover

When most people think of internships, college probably comes to mind. Participating in at least one internship program during college is becoming an increasingly common practice. Some colleges and universities actually build internship semesters into their degree programs.

However, internship positions are not reserved solely for current college students. In fact, making time for an internship can reap rewards even if you’ve already started your career!

So whether you are currently attending university, are in between jobs, or have already begun your career and are looking for opportunities to branch out and learn some new valuable skills, here are 10 reasons to be an intern!

1. Enhance Your Resume
Employers prefer to hire candidates with experience. They are looking for individuals who have worked in similar settings or held similar positions. Applicants with industry-related internships on their resume are often chosen over other job candidates.

2. Gain New Skills
Internships offer the opportunity to learn or refine your work-related skills, making you a more qualified candidate for job openings. In addition to the learning that comes from trying new things in your day to day work, many internships have mentorship programs in which interns are able to follow closely and learn from an experienced mentor. These mentors model best practices through their example and provide valuable feedback aimed at helping the intern grow and improve.

3. Try Out Different Industries
If you are thinking of a career change or are still trying to make a decision regarding your future career plans, short-term internships are the perfect opportunity to try out different industries and see how they fit. Part-time internships or volunteer commitments will give you experience in the fields you are considering. You’ll be able to compare the strengths and weaknesses of different industries. This can be an important stepping stone in making long-term career decisions.

4. Grow Your Professional Reference List
When it comes time to apply for full-time positions, most reputable employers will ask for a reference list and, in many cases, several recommendation letters from colleagues and mentors. Internships are an excellent way to collect professional references from coworkers that have seen the work that you are capable of. It’s always a good idea to ask for reference letters from each of your internship mentors or bosses.

5. Land Potential Job Openings
One major benefit to becoming an intern is that you learn the inner workings of a particular company or organization. You understand their policies and procedures and are invested in the company life. This knowledge will give you a huge leg up when applying for full-time positions. Some organizations even allow interns to apply for job openings as internal candidates, giving you preference over other outside applicants.

6. Expand Your Network
Professional relationships matter. Having solid connections in your field and industry can make the ultimate difference when it comes to landing a job. Your network connections are a good place to turn when you are job hunting. They can point you towards potential job opportunities. They can also put in a good word for you with their company contacts or serve as one of your references.

7. Develop Your Communication Skills
With the rise of the digital age, employers are finding that strong in-person communication skills are harder to find in potential job candidates. However, the ability to communicate new ideas, appropriate handle conflict, and work productively with a team is necessary for the overall success of any organization. Internships provide the chance to practice and strengthen your communication skills, making you a more valuable part of any team.

8. Try Something New
Individuals grow personally and professionally when they challenge themselves to try new things. Internships provide the opportunity to practice new skills, explore new positions, and push yourself out of your comfort zone. In doing so, you will not only become a more versatile team member or employee, you will become a more well-rounded human being.

9. Explore New Places
If you’ve got a desire to see the world, you’re in luck! There are plenty of internships available in every corner of the world. Perhaps you’ve always wanted to visit Costa Rica or maybe a trip to Australia is on your bucket list. Where you want to go, there are internship programs that could take you there!

10. Expand Your Cultural Horizons
Cultural awareness is becoming an increasingly more important skill both in life and in the workplace. It allows an individual to see and appreciate the differences in those they work with. Cultural awareness also leads to greater curiosity and empathy, traits that highly sought after in productive team members. Internships provide the ability to work with people of all different cultures and backgrounds. If you are lucky enough to land an international internship position, you will have the opportunity for a truly immersive cultural experience!

There’s never a bad time for new learning experiences. Whether you’ve been working for years or you are just starting out, there are so many benefits to participating in a quality internship program.

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Author Bio

Mikayla Colthirst-Reid
Posted on: 15 Nov 2019

Mikayla is a Global Nomadic contributor of awesome and engaging content to help inform Global Nomads!