31 Mar What to Expect from Your First Internship Abroad (And How to Prepare!)
Picture yourself in a fashion internship in Paris during Paris Fashion Week. Or completing a finance internship in Singapore, a leading global business hub. Perhaps you’re passionate about impacting change and want a sustainability internship in Stockholm—winner of the first ever Green Capital award by the European Union.
Wherever you prefer, an internship abroad is more than just a shiny add-on to your resume (though that alone is a huge plus!). It’s a chance for you to experience what it’s actually like in the industry, expand your network, and immerse yourself in a new country.
But if it’s your first time interning abroad, you might be wondering: What should you expect? And how can you prepare?
10 things to expect in your first internship abroad
This list will walk you through the top 10 things you need to expect, and what you can do to not get caught off-guard.
Getting lost
Public transportation systems, unfamiliar streets, and language barriers can make going around the city challenging. No matter how much you prepare, getting lost just can’t be helped sometimes. But don’t stress—it can actually be a great way to get to know your surroundings.
Keep your map handy, memorize landmarks, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Over time, you’ll become more confident, and soon, you’ll find yourself exploring hidden gems!
Language barriers
In non-English-speaking countries, simple tasks like ordering food or asking for directions are harder. Even if your internship is in an English-speaking workplace, you may need to adjust to accents, slang, and jargon.
To help you, learn common words and phrases before your internship. Use apps like Duolingo, pay attention to what people usually say, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Locals appreciate the effort!
Unfamiliar food
Trying new food is one of the most exciting parts of living abroad, but it can take some adjustment. You might miss home-cooked meals every now and then or struggle with foreign flavors, but that doesn’t mean you stop exploring.
The key is to stay open-minded. Food is a huge part of culture, and embracing it will only make your experience more special. Start with dishes that feel familiar then branch out from there. If you have dietary restrictions, research alternatives.
Cultural differences
Every country has its own social norms and workplace etiquette. Greetings, meetings, and office culture may be different from what you grew up with. Even dress codes and lunch breaks may vary. (If you’re opting for an internship in Stockholm, get ready for fika!)
Observe, ask questions, and stay open to different ways of doing things. Cultural differences may feel overwhelming at first, but they’ll make you more adaptable and globally aware in the long run.
A different approach to work-life balance
In some countries, long hours may be acceptable, but in others, work-life balance is a high priority. For example, the European Union requires four weeks of paid vacation in its member countries, while the U.S. does not have any laws requiring paid time off.
Sure, it’s an adjustment, but it’s also a chance for you to experience new work styles. Observe what your teammates practice, and join them or find a balance that works for all.
Daily microchallenges
Small tasks that seemed easy back home like grocery shopping or taking the bus can feel overwhelming in a new country. But these challenges—different currencies, unfamiliar processes—are all part of the intern abroad experience!
Instead of getting frustrated, have a curious mindset. Celebrate small wins, even if it’s just ordering coffee in the local language. This can help boost your confidence. Say it with us: the more you overcome, the better you become.
A learning curve
Interning abroad means adapting to different work expectations, industry practices, and communication styles among others. Things may be different from what you’re used to, so give yourself space to make mistakes—they’re part of the learning process, after all. (That doesn’t mean you don’t do your best, though!)
Have a growth mindset. Accept feedback, be proactive, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Every challenge will contribute to your professional development, and make you a more skilled and adaptable employee.
Networking opportunities
An internship helps you build a network, but an internship abroad connects you with professionals from diverse backgrounds. The people you meet during your internship could become your mentors, workmates (again), and even friends for life.
So make the most of it—attend company events, chat with your teammates, befriend fellow interns. Who knows what unique opportunities these relationships can bring you in the future?
Homesickness
No matter how exciting your experience is, there will be moments when you miss the familiarity of home. Special occasions, holidays, or even small reminders of home can trigger feelings of homesickness.
The best way to cope is by staying connected with your loved ones. Keep busy, go on adventures, and make new friends. Over time, your new environment may also start to feel like home!
Personal growth
By the end of your internship, you’ll likely notice a big change in yourself. You’ll have adapted to the local culture, gained real-world experience in your industry and developed invaluable skills, and overcome many, many challenges.
Pat yourself on the back. Celebrate. You did this. You grew, and that growth isn’t just professional—it’s personal. No matter where you go next, what you learn from your internship abroad will no doubt play a role in your future.
How to get started on your internship abroad
Your first internship abroad program will hugely shape your future career and personal growth. Whether you’re interested in a fashion internship in Paris, a finance internship in Singapore, or a sustainability internship in Stockholm, we’ve got you covered. (We have more exciting industries and incredible destinations, too!)
Take the first step toward a life-changing experience. You won’t regret it. Apply today and start your international internship journey with us!
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