Internships Abroad in the Netherlands

Set goals

As you intern in one of the world’s most developed countries, setting goals will help you stay on track and remain composed, even if things become overwhelming. Here are some ideas for goals to set:

• Strengthen your ability to manage personal and professional responsibilities while navigating this new international scene.
• Connect with people in your field, including professionals, mentors, and colleagues. It’s a great way to build a network that could open doors for you down the line.
• Take the opportunity to experience and understand Dutch customs, traditions, and everyday life.

Understand the benefits

The Netherlands is a great place to visit, but interning there offers even more advantages. Here are the benefits you can look forward to:

• Language skills and global exposure. Interning in the Netherlands gives you a real edge with its multilingual environment. Many Dutch people speak Dutch, German, French, and English, so you'll be interacting with people from all over.
• Unique cultural experiences. Living in the Netherlands is quite the adventure! The cities are often packed with locals on bikes and tourists exploring. You'll also come across some behaviors that might be different from what you're used to, so keeping an open mind and a bit of patience will go a long way.
• Growth and new perspectives. If you’re up for a change and want to experience something different, experiencing Dutch life will definitely broaden your horizons. It’s a great way to shake up your world view and boost your career with new experiences.

Things to know

There are several cultural differences in Dutch society compared to other parts of the world, so it's helpful to be aware of these before you start your internship.

• Transportation - Biking is the primary mode of transportation in Dutch cities, making it essential to learn to ride a bike before your internship for convenience and efficiency, though public transportation is also reliable.
• Work environment - Dutch work culture values direct communication and consensus-building, so expect straightforward feedback and frequent meetings where diverse perspectives are shared.
• Business hours - Shops and businesses often close on Sundays and public holidays due to religious and family priorities, so plan activities or rest days accordingly.
• Cost of living - While the cost of living is high compared to many European countries, it is lower than in major American cities; Amsterdam generally has higher costs, so budget for housing, food, and other expenses.