No matter what you’re studying in school, there’s bound to be an internship in Nairobi that will provide you with experience in your field. From mentoring a women’s group on microfinance principles to working on development projects with a local non-profit, you’ll gain on the ground knowledge of the theories you’ve been reading about in your textbooks.

Popular types of internships in Nairobi. Many internships in Nairobi allow you to build your resume while also giving back to the local community. Education-related placements are common, and interns are often tasked with teaching English classes or providing mentorship to children. Health care is also a popular field, and internships in medicine are available across the city. Business majors will find ample opportunity to practice what they’ve learned, from working on a marketing campaign for a non-profit organization to helping set up a small business.

Short-term internships and summer internships vs. long-term internships. Internships in Nairobi can vary in duration depending on your availability, goals, and interests. While a short-term internship is a great way to get a feel for life in Kenya, a longer stay will provide additional benefits: you’ll further your professional skills and make deeper connections with locals. You’ll also have more time to find the best mandazi (fried dough ball) in the city!

Unpaid vs. paid internships in Nairobi. Most internships in Nairobi are unpaid, which is understandable when you consider that placements often are in small organizations without a lot of extra money to throw around. While you probably won’t be swimming in shillings as an intern in Nairobi, it’s important to remember all the benefits that go along with this experience. Experiencing life in a different country, gaining professional work experience, and spending your weekend spotting giraffes on safari will likely remain some of your most memorable experiences as you begin your career.