12 Sep 8 Tips for LGBTQ+ Students to Make the Most of Interning Abroad
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Internships abroad open doors to professional growth, cultural awareness, and unforgettable memories. For LGBTQ+ students, preparing for an internship abroad can also mean taking a few extra steps to ensure the experience is not only enriching but also welcoming and empowering. Considering factors like inclusivity, community, and local culture can help make the journey even more rewarding.
This guide will answer questions like: Is it safe for LGBTQ+ students abroad? How to find LGBTQ+ friendly internships? and Are there support networks for LGBTQ+ students abroad?
Let’s get started! Here are eight tips to help you make your internship abroad a confident, rewarding, and unforgettable adventure.
Research local laws and social climate
One of the most valuable steps is learning about the local attitudes and support for LGBTQ+ people in your destination country. Some countries legally recognize same-sex relationships and actively protect LGBTQ+ rights. Others may not have such protections—and a few actually still criminalize same-sex relationships.
Knowing the law and cultural nuances helps you prepare. For example, while cities like Paris and Lisbon are widely supportive, some places in Asia or Eastern Europe may have stricter norms.
Look up local government travel advisories, ILGA World reports, or relevant forums to get an honest picture of the LGBTQ+ climate in your host country.
Choose LGBTQ+-friendly internship destinations
The truth is that not all destinations will feel equally welcoming. If inclusivity is a priority for you, it’s worth choosing places known for being safe and progressive.
LGBTQ+-friendly cities for students interning abroad include:
- Barcelona – Open culture, with major Pride events
- Stockholm – Known for equality and strong LGBTQ+ rights
- London – Diverse and inclusive work environments
If you’re flexible on location, selecting a supportive environment can totally make your internship abroad program more enjoyable and less stressful.
Find LGBTQ+-friendly internship providers
When searching for internship opportunities abroad, it’s important to ask how the program itself supports LGBTQ+ students.
Look for signs of inclusivity, such as:
- Representation of LGBTQ+ interns in testimonials
- Clear nondiscrimination policies
- Staff trained in diversity and inclusivity
For example, some internship abroad programs work directly with companies that prioritize diversity in the workplace, which can create a safer and more affirming environment. Don’t be afraid to ask providers directly how they support LGBTQ+ participants in their programs.
Prepare for workplace cultural differences
Workplace culture can vary widely between countries—what feels familiar at home might look different abroad. In LGBTQ+-friendly countries, you may feel comfortable being open about your identity, while in more conservative environments, you might choose to share personal details selectively.
Knowing this in advance can help you decide how to navigate your internship confidently and authentically.
Connect with support networks
A strong support system makes all the difference when you’re far from home. Luckily, many destinations have active LGBTQ+ communities you can connect with! Here are some places where you can get started:
Student groups and university clubs – Often host LGBTQ+-friendly events
Local NGOs and organizations – Provide resources and safe spaces
Online platforms like Reddit or Facebook groups – Can connect you with others before you even arrive in your host city
This network not only offers safety, but also a chance for you to make friends with peers who understand your experience. And it’s more than just social—stigma and exclusion can negatively impact LGBTQ+ students’ physical and mental health. That’s why finding supportive spaces abroad isn’t just helpful, it’s essential for your well-being and success.
Take practical safety measures
While most internship abroad programs prioritize student safety, taking a few personal precautions can help you feel more confident and prepared:
- Keep important emergency contacts saved in your phone
- Learn key local phrases to ask for help if needed
- Know the location of your country’s embassy or consulate
These simple steps can help you navigate your host city smoothly and with peace of mind
Decide how open you want to be
Your internship is about professional and personal growth—but only you can decide how much of your identity you want to share.
Some interns choose to share their identity with colleagues when the environment feels welcoming, while others prefer to keep personal details private during the program. Both approaches are completely valid. The most important thing is to make decisions that feel right for you while being mindful of local cultural norms.
Here’s a tip: Practice how you’ll respond to casual questions like “Do you have a partner?” so you feel prepared in different settings!
Remember why you’re there
At its core, an internship abroad program is about gaining skills, exploring career paths, and experiencing life in a new culture. For LGBTQ+ students, it’s also a chance to practice resilience, adaptability, and self-advocacy.
Whether you’re exploring high school summer internships abroad or advancing your career with work experience, your identity is part of what makes your journey unique. Embracing who you are—while being mindful of your environment—can make your internship even more meaningful.
Taking part in internship opportunities abroad is an exciting way to grow both personally and professionally. For LGBTQ+ students, preparation and awareness can turn challenges into opportunities for empowerment.
From researching laws to finding a support system, each step helps you create a safer and smarter experience while in an unfamiliar environment. And, sure, every journey is different, but one thing is certain: interning abroad shapes global citizens who are adaptable, resilient, and ready to succeed!
Your identity is your strength—and the world is waiting for you. Apply with us today to join an internship abroad program that’s inclusive, supportive, and designed to help you thrive.
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