What inspired you to go abroad?
The London Eye!!!
I’ve always been motivated by personal growth, and going abroad felt like the perfect opportunity to challenge myself. I wanted to build independence, adapt to new situations, and expand my perspective while experiencing a different culture firsthand.
I was especially drawn to the idea of immersing myself in a different culture, not just as a visitor but as someone actively participating in it. I wanted to learn from the people around me, understand different customs and traditions, and see how others approach life, work, and relationships. I believe those kinds of experiences help build empathy and a deeper understanding of the world.
Why did you choose The Intern Group?
I chose The Intern Group’s London program because it offered a strong combination of professional development, global exposure, and structured support. I was particularly drawn to how the program places interns in roles that align with their career interests, allowing me to gain hands-on experience in a real-world setting rather than just observing.
That level of immersion was important to me because I wanted to build practical skills and better understand my field in an international context.
What was your favorite part about London?
London is truly a global city, and that’s reflected in its food, languages, and communities. I had the chance to try a wide variety of cuisines and interact with people from many different backgrounds, which made the experience even more meaningful and eye-opening.
Overall, what stood out most was how London combines history, culture, and opportunity in one place. It challenged me to step outside my routine, try new things, and fully immerse myself in a new environment, which made it an unforgettable experience.
Tea Time!!!
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
What made my experience abroad truly extraordinary was the combination of personal growth, cultural immersion, and professional development all happening at once.
It wasn’t just about being in a new place, but about how that environment continuously pushed me to adapt, learn, and grow in ways I hadn’t experienced before.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
One of the most valuable aspects of their support was their accessibility and responsiveness. Whether I had questions about my internship, housing, or simply navigating the city, they were always approachable and willing to help.
Knowing that I had a reliable support system in place made it much easier to adjust to a new environment and focus on both my professional and personal growth. (Shoutout Peach and Autumn - our mom and dad home away from home!)!
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
Looking back, I would have liked to travel more frequently and explore areas beyond the main parts of the city. There were so many nearby destinations and hidden gems that I didn’t get the chance to see, and I realize now how valuable those experiences would have been in broadening my perspective even further.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
Madame Tussaud’s!!!
Evenings often involved meeting up with other interns or friends, whether it was for dinner, events, or just spending time together. These moments were some of the most memorable because they allowed me to build connections with people from diverse backgrounds while sharing new experiences.
Weekends were typically reserved for bigger plans, such as traveling to nearby cities, visiting attractions, or participating in organized activities. This gave me the chance to see more of the country and make the most of my time abroad.
What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?
I loved visiting museums and cultural sites. London has so many world-class museums, and having the opportunity to experience them in person was something I really appreciated. It was a great way to learn more about history, art, and culture while making the most of my time there.
Trying new food was another highlight. I made an effort to explore different cuisines and restaurants, which reflected the city’s diversity. It was exciting to step outside of my usual preferences and experience new flavors and dishes.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
During my time abroad, I stayed in shared accommodation arranged through the program, which I found to be both comfortable and convenient. Living with other interns created a built-in sense of community and made the transition to a new city much easier. It was reassuring to be surrounded by people who were going through a similar experience, and it helped me quickly form connections and friendships.
Met a West End Musical main character!!! (Mean Girls the Musical!)
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
One thing every future participant should know before beginning the program is how important it is to be proactive and make the most of every opportunity. While the program provides a strong structure and support system, the overall experience is really what you choose to make of it.
Taking initiative, both in your internship and in your personal time, can greatly enhance what you gain from the experience.
Would you recommend Internships & Volunteer Programs in London to others? Why?
Yes, I would absolutely recommend this program to others because it offers a well-rounded and rewarding experience both professionally and personally. The combination of a structured internship, cultural immersion, and ongoing support makes it a great opportunity for anyone looking to gain real-world experience while living abroad.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
I feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the personal growth that comes from experiencing life outside of your comfort zone. Being in a completely new environment challenges you to adapt, problem-solve, and become more independent in ways that everyday routines at home often don’t require.
More Mean Girls Cast (she’s Regina George!!!)
Overall, the biggest benefit is the combination of growth, perspective, and confidence that stays with you long after the trip ends. It’s an experience that not only helps you learn about the world but also teaches you a great deal about yourself.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Now that I’m home, I can clearly see how much my time abroad has impacted my life in both subtle and significant ways.
One of the biggest changes is my increased sense of independence and confidence. Navigating a new country, adapting to unfamiliar situations, and managing daily life on my own pushed me to become more self-reliant, and that mindset has carried over into my life back home.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel, to me, goes beyond simply visiting new places or seeing popular attractions. It’s about fully engaging with the environment, culture, and people in a way that leaves a lasting impact.
Rather than just observing, meaningful travel involves immersing yourself in the local way of life and being open to new perspectives and experiences.
