Internships Abroad in Hawaii (USA)

42 Internships in Hawaii (USA)
GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
4.76
41
GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and med
Institute for Global Studies
4.33
3
Hawaii is where it all started for IGS. We have teamed up with more than 30 hosts providing internships on five different islands. We have set up custom requests, including a glass-blowing placement. And we have stayed mainstream with coral reef research with top scientists. Among this mix are place
See All 41 ProgramsA Guide to Interning Abroad in Hawaii
Prepare for your Internship in the Paradise of Hawaii
Set goals
Before beginning your internship in Hawaii, set clear goals to ensure a fulfilling experience:
- Acquire practical skills and industry knowledge in your chosen field such as sustainable tourism, renewable energy, or agriculture.
- Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture and traditions.
- Build a network of professional contacts and mentors for your career and personal growth.
Understand the benefits
Interning in Hawaii offers numerous advantages:
- Professional experience. Gain practical skills and knowledge in your chosen field, whether it's environmental conservation, hospitality, renewable energy, or marine biology.
- Cultural immersion. Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture, learning about the islands' history, traditions, and values. Participate in local traditions, festivals, and community events.
- Natural beauty. Gain a deeper appreciation for environmental conservation as you witness firsthand the unique ecosystems and natural wonders of the Hawaiian islands.
Things to Know
Preparing for an internship in Hawaii means understanding both the unique island lifestyle and practical considerations for a successful stay. Here are essential tips to help you adapt and make the most of your experience.
- Cost of Living: Hawaii’s cost of living is high; budget carefully, especially for housing and food.
- Weather: Expect warm, humid weather year-round; pack light clothing and sun protection.
- Transportation: Public transport and biking are common; some areas may require car rentals for ease of travel.
- Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs, especially around sacred sites and Hawaiian traditions.
- Outdoor Safety: Be mindful of ocean safety, local wildlife, and weather conditions for a safe adventure.
Choose a location
Hawaii’s diverse islands each offer unique internship experiences:
Honolulu
Honolulu, the state capital, is a vibrant city with opportunities in various fields, including business, healthcare, and hospitality. The city’s dynamic environment and access to beautiful beaches make it a prime location for internships.
Hilo
Hilo is known for its lush rainforests and proximity to active volcanoes, making it an excellent destination for internships in environmental science, conservation, and geology. The town’s small-community feel provides a supportive atmosphere for learning.
Kauai
Kauai, the "Garden Isle," is known for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches. Interning in Kauai offers a unique opportunity to work in a serene and nature-focused environment. The island is ideal for those interested in environmental conservation, agriculture, and sustainable tourism.
Choose a Field
Interning in Hawaii offers a unique chance to explore diverse fields against a stunning natural backdrop. From environmental conservation to hospitality and healthcare, Hawaii’s industries are tied to its unique culture, landscape, and economy.
Environmental Conservation
Hawaii’s delicate ecosystems make it a prime location for conservation internships. With unique wildlife and habitats, you can participate in projects ranging from marine conservation to forest restoration. This field is ideal for those passionate about sustainability, environmental science, and ecological preservation.
Hospitality and Tourism
As one of the world’s top travel destinations, Hawaii offers abundant opportunities in hospitality and tourism. Gain hands-on experience in hotels, resorts, or cultural tourism projects while learning how sustainable tourism practices help protect Hawaii’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. This field is perfect for those interested in tourism management and customer service.
Healthcare
Hawaii’s healthcare system is tailored to serve its diverse, multicultural communities. Interning in healthcare provides valuable experience in a unique setting, with opportunities to work on public health initiatives, rural healthcare, and patient care. Ideal for aspiring medical professionals, this field offers insights into the challenges and rewards of healthcare in a tropical island setting.
Getting Started
1. Get Matched
Let our GoAbroad Online Advisor guide you to find internship programs in Hawaii that align with your career goals and interests. Receive personalized matches right to your inbox.
2. Choose a Program
Use MyGoAbroad to explore and compare internship options in Hawaii. Save and review programs that fit your preferred field, location, and length of stay.
3. Decide When to Go
Timing your Hawaii internship with your schedule and Hawaii’s seasonal offerings can enhance your experience:
- Summer: Busy tourist season—ideal for internships in hospitality, tourism, and conservation.
- Fall: Quieter season, great for deeper focus on research or professional projects.
- Winter: Whale watching season—a unique time for marine biology or environmental internships.
- Spring: Excellent for outdoor work and environmental internships with blooming landscapes.
4. Choose How Long to Stay
Decide on a duration that fits your goals and availability:
- Short-Term (1-3 months): Ideal for summer break or exploring a new career interest.
- Semester (3-6 months): Gain a comprehensive experience in Hawaii’s unique work environments.
- Academic Year (9-12 months): Allows for in-depth learning and cultural immersion.
- Long-Term (1 year or more): Perfect for those seeking extensive field experience in a specific industry.
5. Funding & Scholarships
Complete our Scholarships & Deals Application to access funding opportunities for your Hawaii internship.
6. Apply
After selecting a program, apply directly through the internship provider. Once accepted, a coordinator will guide you through next steps and any additional paperwork needed.
7. Get Your Essentials
Ensure you’re ready for your Hawaii internship with these essentials:
- Visa & Passport: U.S. citizens need only a valid ID, but check requirements if you’re traveling internationally.
- Flights: Find competitive fares through Flights & Transportation.
- Insurance: Stay covered with GoAbroad Insurance.
Popular Providers
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find internships in Hawaii?
Researching program providers who can recommend ideal matches for your skills and preferences is one of the best ways of finding internships in Hawaii. Other choices include discussing with your university or applying directly to companies in Hawaii.
Are there any paid internships in Hawaii?
A paid internship in Hawaii is hard to find, so you have to look for it diligently. Some program providers grant scholarships or cover meals and housing costs. Others offer compensation in the form of stipends at the company's discretion.
What are the requirements for Hawaii internships?
Some programs may require a minimum GPA, a resume, letters of recommendation, relevant skills, and a strong interest in the field. It's advisable to check your program provider as requirements vary on the specific program and organization.
How much do internships in Hawaii cost?
Internship costs in Hawaii can vary significantly depending on factors like program duration, inclusions, and location and may typically range from $900 to $5000. Consider consulting your program provider for detailed pricing information.
Latest Program Reviews
So much learning
February 24, 2021by: Pamela S - United KingdomChildren and women are being exposed to so many risks, like emotional, psychological, sexual, and physical abuses. While society are doing its best to address these issues, there are still a handful of cases left unheard and unresolved. In my internship, I was tasked to answer hotline calls from abused women and children, interact in their therapy sessions, and even organize parties for the children in the shelter. These kids are so adorable and I could not bear the fact that some people are finding it easy to resent them. At the outset, before we started our internships, we are trained by licensed guidance counselors and psychologists and told us what to and not to do. I learned a lot.
An honor to be chosen as an intern
February 24, 2021by: Leanna U - UgandaIndeed, domestic violence poses serious threats to women and their children. I have witnessed it first hand in my own home, and I regret every second of it. When I was presented with the chance to work with women and children in their care shelters, I was ecstatic. Even told it to my mom and she was very supportive. Internships like these are rare, and being chosen as an intern here is an honor for me. Happy to do it with IGS! :)
Fulfilling
February 24, 2021by: Jordyn T - United StatesAs a policy student, I really am very interested with this internship. When my classmate told me her experience with IGS, I did not hesitate and applied. Good thing, IGS's courses are available the whole year, so I was able to find an internship suitable to my needs and preferences. I got to experience 3 weeks of fulfilling and rewarding internship, and actually make a difference on others' lives.
Sepanx is real
February 16, 2021by: Alixia L - MyanmarSepanx is real! (separation anxiety) I gained so many charming friends in my internship in USA! My workmates are adorable people. As to the job duties, we did leisure travel arrangements, cruises, tours, independent packages, corporate travel-related sales. We also arranged their service - air, car, hotel reservations. I got to try a lot of hotels (for free!) because we "develop incoming leads and turn them into bookings". They also told me that I have potential to become a full-time consultant after the internship period. I am thrilled!
Got new set of mothers and sisters
February 16, 2021by: Tyra F - United StatesI really love traveling. They say that when you do something you love, you won't have to work a day in your life. So this is my first step to being a travel consultant. The firm I was assigned to is very hospitable - was welcomed by an all-female staff, which made me really comfortable. They are like sisters and mothers to me. I got particularly close to Jessica, my partner in our Japan project, and to Ms. Lilia, who is my boss in one of our arrangement/ deal with a rude customer! They are so nice even if some customers are so rude, that's why I really admire them. It was grace under pressure, in the most literal sense!
Knowing the ins and outs of travel consultancy
February 16, 2021by: Pedro Gonzales - MexicoWorking for a travel consultancy firm made me realize how interesting this field is for me. I talked to clients, created itineraries, did research on fares, and communicated with a lot of people. When I said phone calls are main part of my job duties, I ain't lying. But the fact that I learned about the operations (ins and outs) of travel consultancy is very significant to me. Very valuable, since I plan to open a travel consultancy firm in the near future!
Working for an art gallery is my dream!
February 16, 2021by: Jeraldine Ong - ChinaWorking for an art gallery is my dream! And to do it in Paris is way beyond my expectations. Everyday, there are prepared different units of the gallery. And everyday there are some seemingly daunting tasks. But I am glad that my supervisors are mentoring me all throughout the process. I also did some research, printed some captions, worked with the marketing and creatives team. This internship gave me my dream and I would always cherish it. <3 I would like to give my sincerest thanks to the IGS group for this amazing adventure. Your programme opened doors for me to meet a lot of people and travelled different places.
Different gallery set ups everyday
February 16, 2021by: Dana Farhad - IranIGS gave me a position in a medium-sized museum and I loved everything about it. I super like that it's not too big to be filled with so much people, as it trigers my social anxiety. I love also that it isn't too small to not do anything. i was trained in how to communicate with visitors, and was oriented on the history of the majestic pieces of art. Thankj you very much, IGS!
Good times
February 16, 2021by: Jomar Obien - IndonesiaHappy to have good times with my co-interns. happy to bond with them and visit tourist destinations on Saturdays and Sundays and on days when there are not much work in office. happy because this internship is really organized
Gear preparations, reef surveys
February 15, 2021by: Christine Margareth S - American SamoaMy major is actually Journalism, but the diving world really draws my attention that much. So, I took the plunge and tried this IGS internship program. What we did everyday was preparing gear for dives, conducting reef surveys and even website management to highlight threats to reef systems. My journ experience was also used, as I have created contents for the shop's website, also some SEO stuff, and some copywriting. Staff are always smiling, and Hawaii is extremely beautiful. How I wish I could spend eternity there.
Insane experience
February 15, 2021by: Andrei K - AustraliaIn general, a Divemaster course will take on average anywhere between 6 weeks - 6 months to complete. Here, it took me 3.5 months. :) On mornings and afternoons, we assist visitors in their tours, coordinated with the other staff, did researches in the back office, and even did some marketing stuff when there are just few visitors. On days when no visitors are around, they teach me towards my PADI certification goal and really made time to orient me. Grateful for this beautiful opportunity. Serving dual purpose - enjoying and learning in the internship... also getting a certification. Insane.
Cebu is beautiful!
February 15, 2021by: Jordin S - United StatesGot the chance to work with local and foreign staff in Cebu, Philippines. Working in the dive shop got me an opportunity to meet diff kinds of people, so I get to learn their language also. Good thing Cebuanos are very fluent in English, I had no difficulty in understanding them. Among the many tourist destinations I went to, I think that taoist temple, tops lookout, and the whaleshark spotting are my top favorite adventures.
My introverted self was able to adjust easily
December 12, 2020by: Cleo A. - United Arab EmiratesProgram: Hawaii’s Favorite Internship Opportunities: 60 Options
We worked in the IT field in Hawaii and worked with a very respected IT team. Hawaii’s culture is always happy and people are very hospitable. My fellow interns are diverse. Some are from Hawaii itself, some from US, and some from Japan. I like that I get to meet people with the same ideas as me. Wanna say thanks to the IGS team for making this happen. My introverted self was able to adjust and it will always be something I would cherish. Kudos!
Excursions to the eruptions sites of Big Island and volcanoes national park
December 12, 2020by: Wariel Nguyen - VietnamProgram: Hawaii’s Favorite Internship Opportunities: 60 Options
We had an excursion to the eruption sites of Big Island and Volcanoes National Park. My main fields of interest are arts and archaeology so this is so overwhelming for me. Only downside is that I wanted the internship to be longer. I could have stayed much longer. It was full of fun and great people.
Hawaii is amazing
December 12, 2020by: Karl Bowman - WalesProgram: Hawaii’s Favorite Internship Opportunities: 60 Options
I had an internship with coral reef research with top scientists. Dr. Adams is very approachable and eager to help us have our dream placements. I’m really happy I gave this a try. Thanks to IGS and all its staff. Hawaii is amazing!
All-female staff in Paris
December 12, 2020by: Katherine Stuart - Hawaii (USA)The Institute for Global Studies confirmed me at one of the top intellectual property law firms in Paris, France. I really enjoyed using a foreign language in the workplace and being a part of an all-female staff. There were moments of high stress, but also high rewards. This is the first big step on my path to becoming a lawyer.
My preferences are very well considered
December 12, 2020by: Krissy E - CanadaI thought it would be a longshot to get confirmed at a Costa Rica-based attorney. The staff at the IGS found me a place in downtown San Jose. Great job! Experience is wonderful. My co-interns are very helpful and sweet. Can't wait to see them again after this pandemic.
Business law internship in Chicago
December 12, 2020by: Brittany U - United StatesI completed a business law internship under IGS with firm in Chicago. I had a great experience and the staff was top notch. The research I performed for the firm was used in several important cases. It was rewarding seeing my hard work used in the real world.
a blessing in disguise
November 05, 2020by: Jen Thorpe - United Arab EmiratesProgram: Veterinary Science (Wildlife/Animal Care) Internships
This IGS internship is a blessing in disguise. I had a lot of family problems this year; so I decided to have some time alone and so decided to apply for IGS. I have little background on veterinary medicine but I aspire to be a veterinarian soon. We assisted with taking vital statistics of the animals, and fed them, and even bathed some of them. The calming atmosphere is so refreshing and it made me rethink my life perspective. All I can say is I am a lot happier now, and I am now on my first year of Vet Med.
PPC Advertising is cool too
November 05, 2020by: Paul Malfoy - CanadaProgram: Graphic Design (Information Technology) Internships
I have years of Graphic Design experience, but I never really paid much attention to Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, Search engine optimization (SEO), and Blog writing, which are kinda related to my field. In my internship in Spain, we are opened to these fields and are encouraged to try and see for ourselves our strengths on those areas. I would say that for PPC, I rate myself as 9/10; for SEO, 8/10; and blog, 7.5/10. Not bad. Thanks, IGS, for letting us explore the world of our chosen fields, and those connected thereto.
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Village Green Society
I wanted to travel, needed a change, and a new experience.
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