How did you discover and get involved with International Internships?
International Internships had an opening for a Program Advisor Position in the Fall of 2016 and I jumped at the chance to apply and get involved in the International Education field.
Me at Yellowstone
How have your previous travels influenced the work you do today?
During college I studied for a semester in Lüneburg, Germany. Ever since then, I’ve wanted to travel the globe and see more and more places. With my position in International Internships I have the opportunity to travel the U.S. and abroad to promote our programs. I never would have considered a job in International Education, had I never studied abroad.
My time as a student abroad has also helped me in my interactions with our overseas partners. The intercultural communication competence I gained studying abroad has made working with people from around the world much easier.
Me and a friend in Ireland
Describe a typical day on the job.
Throughout the day I’ll answer emails and calls with questions about interning abroad. I will be preparing a participant to go abroad, checking in on current interns, and working on J-1 visa paperwork. In addition, I may have meetings with partners overseas, pre-departure calls with students who are about to leave for their program, or talking with universities about our programs.
How can students best prepare for their internship experience with International Internships?
The first thing they should think about is the culture they will be immersing themselves in. It is a great idea to research the country you are going to and learn about their customs to avoid any intercultural mishaps. Be ready to work at it. The purpose of your experience abroad is to gain practical experience in your field, so be prepared to work hard.
What kind of pre-departure services are offered by International Internships?
Two of our main pre-departure services are our pre-departure orientation and handbook. Both of these cover business and social life cultural norms on the participant’s destination countrie. We also discuss the training they will receive, what to do in an emergency, and how to get around in their new home.
Who is the most successful type of intern, and what kind of qualities do they possess?
The most successful interns take initiative to learn more. Our programs are relatively independent. While we organize activities for interns in their city, it isn’t like a traditional study abroad program. Most likely, they will be the only intern in their host company, so interns need to be able engage with others in their workplace to establish new relationships.
Me and friends in the Philippines
How have you seen students benefit from their time with International Internships?
While the main reason to do an internship is to gain experience in one’s field, the biggest benefit from interning abroad are the skills we don’t think about. Learning to live independently, getting yourself up and to work on time, navigating a new place, and meeting new people. All those hidden skills make life after college much easier.
Why should future interns be excited to engage with International Internships?
We personalize the experience for every intern. From advising sessions to the field of their internship. Every experience is unique. Whether their internship is for credit or just the experience, their program will give them a competitive edge in the long run.
What are your hopes for the future of International Internships?
I hope to see us grow and send more students abroad than ever. One of our largest programs is the U.S. Program. In addition to the excellent placements we offer in the U.S. I would like us to be able to offer even more services in the U.S. to give interns more ways to engage with American culture.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaning Travel is simply travel that means something to you. It doesn’t have to be something extravagant or serious. Even if it is traveling for the first time and facing your fear of flying or experiencing a new local food. If it had meaning in your life, then that’s all that matters.