Editor’s note: This article is part of our Meaningful Travel Forecast series and official travel report for 2019. ☆ For college students, recent graduates, or anyone thinking about a career change, taking on an internship is a wise move. Getting a taste of a different type of job, or perhaps building up some experience and refining your skills in a particular industry, is a great way to spice up your CV and improve your chances of landing that dream job. An internship is also one of the most worthwhile ways for high school or college students to make the most of their summer break, getting ahead of the game in their future job searches.
Learn More About the Best Cities for Summer Internships Abroad in 2019 with GoAbroad's Official Report
Summer internships abroad can be even more valuable. With opportunities available in virtually all industries and in a huge selection of countries and cities, why not amp up the internship experience by learning about a different culture at the same time? It might be more challenging, but the experience of living immersed in a different culture, and potentially a different language, is sure to add a new dimension to your internship studies and give you a broadened perspective on work and life.
Want to make 2019 the year you kick-start your career? We asked meaningful travelers, internship program providers, and our wider community of youth travel experts, and here are there predictions for the "where's where" of short-term internships abroad this year. Let’s dive in to the best cities for summer internships abroad in 2019!
The best cities for college internships abroad in summer 2019
1. London
Often right at the top of European traveler’s bucket lists, London is one of the world’s most interesting cities. One of the leading forces in several areas, from politics to fashion, arts and music, London is constantly moving and evolving. Although each day has potential to make history, life in London is simultaneously understated, as per the quintessentially British way.
Home to a host of multinational companies, completing a summer internship in London is sure to make your resume/CV stand out. However, it will also give you the experience of living each day surrounded by cultural experiences. Even after you have explored the most famous tourist spots, snapped your photos of Big Ben, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge, there will still be a seemingly infinite number of museums, galleries, boutiques and theaters (theatres*) to discover. Not forgetting, of course, the booming nightlife or cosy pubs and tea rooms—whatever your social style.
- GoAbroad’s program pick: ISA
- Traveler’s program pick: The Intern Group
Many travel because it’s super affordable to live in exotic places, but not everyone can be a digital nomad. Some of us have a cosmopolitan side that we need to support with a full time gig. Work in England for a chance to thrive in a foreign land (and have a cracking good time while you’re at it).—Future ESL Teacher Rebekah Glebe in 5 Brilliant Ways to Work in England This Year
2. Tokyo
Right at the heart of technology, Tokyo is the face of modernity and all that is cutting-edge. However, all the shining screens, super-fast transport, and architecturally impressive skyscrapers are intertwined with ancient traditions and cultural heritage. The juxtaposition of old and new, and modern and traditional will make the experience of Tokyo a dynamic and exciting location for a summer internship abroad.
The opportunity to immerse into Japanese culture is a unique experience, albeit a challenging one. Embrace each moment, each difference, each mistake. Learning a new way of life is not only an incredible opportunity for personal growth, but interning in Tokyo also means engaging in Japanese work culture as well, which is an opportunity for professional growth and expansion of cultural awareness and understanding. The skills you walk away with from a summer internship abroad in Tokyo will go beyond the work experience you gained. You will walk away with a greater appreciation for approaching life and work in new ways.
- GoAbroad’s program pick: Intern Abroad HQ
- Traveler’s program pick: Meiji Academy
3. Dublin
Drink in the history and the culture of Ireland during your summer internship in Dublin. Dublin is one of the best places for summer internships because of its lively pub scene, its worldly influences, and it's interesting history. Not only will you be able to gain work experience in research, refugee services, or marketing and business, but you’ll also be able to enjoy the best that Ireland has to offer. No matter your cup of Irish tea, Dublin has everything you are looking for—beaches and parks, pubs and eateries, and a deep rooted history that will unfold the more you explore the ol’ Irish cobble streets.
Internships in Dublin will help you to develop your confidence within the workplace and within an international setting! Walk the charming streets of Dublin, follow the music—and your heart—and fall in love.
- GoAbroad’s program pick: The Intern Group
- Traveler’s program pick: Stint Ireland
4. Barcelona
Let the music flow through your body as you embrace this seaside town and expand your global horizons during your internship abroad. You can choose from the ABCs of internships in Spain including psychology, business, and journalism—just to name a few. As you follow the mouthwatering smells of the various Catalan dishes wafting in the air, you will be left in awe of the stunning architecture that spans the ages.
Open yourself up to a new work culture—and afternoon siestas—so you can expand your global competence and ability to adapt to a new and multicultural environment. Your summer internship experience in Barcelona will also invite you into a space to build international connections that could create international opportunities and support in the future. Enjoy the Mediterranean coast during your downtime through activities such as paddle boarding, kayaking, or cruising underneath the warmth of the Iberian Sun! Just don’t forget to pack sunscreen or you’ll be returning to the office with a natural red glow.
- GoAbroad’s program pick: Global Experiences
- Traveler’s program pick: GoEco
Today’s students want relevant knowledge and useful experience. Many are cultural explorers with an increasing demand for discovery and connections that will benefit them at the moment and in the future for their careers.—Dr. Edna Wilson, SAI
5. Shanghai
Another one of the best cities for summer internships abroad is Shanghai. Embrace the magic, revel in the glamour, and learn about the history. Summer internships in Shanghai range from positions in Fashion Week Shanghai, to TEFL placements and advertising jobs—no matter your interest, you’ll find it in Shanghai...and then still be surprised! You can spend some of your down time doing a little window shopping while admiring the boutiques and high end clothing stores and admiring the neck bending architecture.
For those interested in the arts, Shanghai offers incredible art museums to indulge in and acrobatic shows to “ooh” and “ahhh” at. You’ll also be able to join the growing nightlife scene and experience anything from indie clubs to electric dance parties. Each day will bring you a new experience, and as long as you go in with an open mind, you will leave your summer internship in Shanghai with incredible international work experience and new-founded interests and passions that you didn’t even know existed!
- GoAbroad’s program pick: IES Internships
- Traveler’s program pick: Asia Internship Program
6. Sydney
Although summer internships in Sydney will technically be winter placements, you will still have ample opportunity to enjoy all that Sydney has to offer! Sydney differs from its Australian counterparts, so get ready to embrace its loudness and spirit while you explore its urban wildness and lively nightlife. When you need a break from the lights and dazzle of city life, explore the coast and harbor by foot, by ocean, or by boat.
Summer internships in Sydney cover many fields with great opportunities in tourism, business, and media. Even though there is the benefit of Aussies speaking English, their slang may be hard to pick up on and grasp right away. So meet up with friends at a barbie, share a few coldies and enjoy some chook, but don’t stay out too late so you can enjoy some brekky in the morning!
- GoAbroad's program pick: World Internships
- Traveler’s program pick: Internships Down Under
7. Beijing
In addition to Shanghai, Beijing is another one of the best cities for college internships abroad. As the city continues to grow, expand, and embrace the future, they cannot fully shake their intrinsic past. This gives you the combination of new and old influences to explore as you try to grasp what Beijing is, because every time you think you’ve got it figured out, you should probably think again!
Internships in Beijing will open opportunities for teaching English, experiencing the excitement of Fashion Week, as well as au pair and business positions. Through teaching English or working as an au pair, you will be immersed in a new aspect of Beijing that other positions do not allow, however, other positions will bring you closer to the business world of Beijing and the international power that it is. Take in the sites and architecture, and make sure to leave some room in your stomach for all of the dishes you’ll be wishing you could pack in your luggage back home.
- Traveler’s program pick: Hutong School
8. Auckland
Although your summer internship will turn winter in Auckland, too, you’ll at least be able to cozy up with the many lovers according to Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland’s Māori name! Embrace the cooler weather while you take in the rugged coastline and the top rated quality of life. Whether you are looking for conservation, English teaching, or advertising internship positions, you will find plenty of options in Auckland.
While you gain some pretty incredible international work experience, you will be able to enjoy and indulge in the wonderful location that Auckland is lucky to occupy. Auckland offers the experience of high rises and the beating heart of a city, but is also a hop and a skip away from rainforests, wineries, thermal springs, and wildlife and nature reserves—the best of both worlds, natural and manmade. Embrace the Kiwi culture and your adventurous nature, and bungee jump into an internship abroad in Auckland!
- Traveler’s program pick: New Zealand Internships in Auckland
9. Jerusalem
Experience the rich history that continues to live in the present while you intern in Jerusalem. Your spirituality will bloom as you water it with influences from the Muslim, Christian, Jewish, and Armenian communities that reside in the city. Learn about community and division, unity and separation, and faith and fighting. Internships in Jerusalem will give you the opportunity to experience this rich and vibrant city for yourself.
Whether you are looking to improve your Hebrew or Arabic, or deepen your urban planning skills, Jerusalem offers a unique internship experience as you learn about the past and how it seeps into the present and continues to influence the future. If you have interest and passion for religion and politics, Jerusalem combines both in a sometimes settled and sometimes volatile way that will help you understand the conflict and community personally.
- Traveler’s program pick: Abraham Hostels and Tours in Jerusalem
10. Singapore
Singapore, Singapore makes the list of one of the best places for summer internships, not only for its booming IT sector, but also its progressive essence and exciting nightlife. Experience life in Singapore through the lens of the new age—the nation is taking strides to firm its place as an Asian Tiger in the 21st century.
Whether you're looking for opportunities in IT, utilizing Mandarin in a business setting, or even Sales Management, Singapore will offer you a unique experience full of hawker stands and art galleries. Learn about the history, and help Singapore move into the future as you work alongside other professionals in your field. This modern city will offer you an international experience like no other—you'll return home with many newly acquired professional skills, as well as the ability to adapt, embrace, and celebrate new situations.
We've seen student travelers start experiential travel trends due to topics in pop culture before—think New Zealand (Lord of the Rings) and Croatia (Game of Thrones). I'm curious to see if the Crazy Rich Asians book trilogy and film will trigger an increased interest in Singapore starting in 2019.—Kayla Patterson, GoAbroad COO
Next steps to book internship programs abroad
Here are handful of resources to get you started on your very own professional journey. 2019 could be YOUR year to travel—and we can help make it happen! Get free program recommendations that match your travel goals, or use MyGoAbroad to bookmark and compare program options with confidence.
Still hungry for more? Bookmark these bad boys:
Internship Inspiration
- How to Get an Internship Abroad
- 6 Ways to Intern Abroad
- What Should I Expect from an Internship Abroad?
Program Selection Advice
- The 25 Best Internship Programs Abroad This Year
- How to Find the Perfect Program Provider for Your International Internship
- 16 Top Summer Internships for 2019
Paying for Your Adventure
- Are Unpaid Internships Abroad Worth It?
- Paying for Internships Abroad: Your New How-To Guide
- 10 Inexpensive Internships Abroad You Can Totes Afford
- Browse Intern Abroad Scholarships
[Get Matched with 5 Internship Programs Abroad for FREE]
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Summer international internships are the best way to turn an ordinary summer by the pool, into an exciting few months of plane hopping, culture embracing, and language learning in an inspiring new location! As you gain experience through your internship, you will grow not only professionally, but personally as well. Your confidence inside and outside of the office will soar and see new heights after your summer internship abroad.
Expand your global network, spice up your resume, and give your future a clearer direction and more intentional purpose through your internship experience in one of the best best cities for college internships abroad. Meet new friends, try new foods, and explore a new you! Say “yes” and take this expanding experience and begin planning your summer 2019 internship now! This article was written with help from Hannah Sorila
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