What inspired you to work for Intern Abroad HQ?
I’ve always loved travel and the way it opens your mind to new people, places, and perspectives. Working with Intern Abroad HQ lets me combine that passion with something even more meaningful - helping others grow, discover their strengths, and explore what truly inspires them, all while having amazing experiences in some of the world’s most incredible destinations.
Describe a typical day at work.
A typical day involves a mix of tasks that keep things interesting! I spend time answering enquiries from prospective interns, supporting those already registered, and checking in to make sure they feel prepared and confident about their upcoming experiences. I also work closely with our local teams to build strong relationships and ensure everything on the ground runs smoothly. When possible, I explore new internship opportunities to keep our programs fresh, exciting, and aligned with what students and young professionals are looking for.
A visit with nature
Why do you do what you do?
Because I genuinely believe in the power of international experiences to shape people’s lives. It’s incredibly rewarding to help someone step out of their comfort zone, gain confidence, and discover new passions - all while exploring the world. Knowing that I can play a small part in their personal and professional growth is what keeps me inspired every day.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of the job is hearing from interns after their placements - seeing their growth and knowing the experience made a real impact. I especially love receiving feedback and photos because it’s like getting a glimpse into their journey and the connections they’ve made. That kind of social proof is not only rewarding but also a great reminder of why this work matters. Every story, smile, or shared success adds so much meaning to what we do.
How do you use your education and international background in your current role?
Having lived in both the UK and Canada, I know firsthand what it’s like to adapt to new environments, navigate different cultures, and experience the ups and downs of living abroad. That international experience really helps me connect with our interns - I get the excitement, but also the challenges that can come with stepping into something unfamiliar. It allows me to support them in a more personal, understanding way, because I’ve been in their shoes. My background in social sciences also helps me appreciate the different ways people approach things, which is really useful when working across cultures.
A photo with my cute dog
What advice would you give your pre-travel self?
I’d tell my pre-travel self not to be afraid to try something different and step outside of the comfort zone. Real growth and change don’t happen by sticking to the familiar. The world is a big, beautiful place full of incredible experiences just waiting to be discovered - so go out there and embrace it!
What makes Intern Abroad HQ special?
What makes Intern Abroad HQ special is how we truly care about helping people grow and discover themselves through travel and work abroad. It’s not just about the internships - it’s about the whole journey, the challenges, the new friendships, and the amazing memories that come with it. We’re all about creating a supportive, welcoming community that helps interns feel confident and excited to take on the world. That sense of connection and transformation is what makes it really unique.
Why should someone choose Intern Abroad HQ over competitors?
We genuinely put our interns first. From personalized support before, during, and after the placement to building strong relationships with trusted local partners, we make sure every experience is meaningful and well-supported. We care about growth, connection, and making sure interns get the most out of their time abroad. Plus, our passion for creating safe, authentic, and inspiring experiences really sets us apart.
What is your organization's mission, and how do you continue to work toward it?
"Our mission at Intern Abroad HQ is to empower young people to grow personally and professionally through meaningful international internships. We believe that real learning happens when you step outside your comfort zone, experience new cultures, and take on challenges in the real world.
To keep moving toward this mission, we focus on creating supportive, well-structured programs that connect interns with trusted local partners. We listen closely to feedback, constantly improve our offerings, and provide ongoing support so every intern feels prepared, safe, and inspired throughout their journey."
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
I hope participants come away from our programs with more confidence, new skills, and a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Beyond just professional experience, I want them to feel inspired by the people they meet, the challenges they overcome, and the different cultures they get to explore. Ultimately, I hope they leave with a sense of growth and excitement for what’s next in their journey - both personally and professionally.
The view is so beautiful, I couldn't resist taking a photo.
How do you help support participants?
I support participants by being there for them every step of the way - from answering their questions before they even arrive, to helping them prepare for their placement, and checking in regularly while they’re abroad. I work closely with our local teams to make sure everything runs smoothly on the ground, and I’m always available if they need advice, encouragement, or help navigating any challenges. My goal is to make their experience as positive, safe, and rewarding as possible.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
It opens your mind in ways nothing else can. It challenges your assumptions, broadens your perspective, and helps you develop empathy and understanding for people who live differently. These experiences not only enrich your personal growth but also build skills like adaptability and communication that are invaluable in today’s global world. Ultimately, stepping into new cultures helps you see the world (and yourself) with fresh eyes.
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
My advice would be to go for it and be open to everything that comes with it. Stepping into the unknown isn’t easy, and it’s not meant to be! It’s totally normal not to love every aspect of interning abroad, but it’s those challenges that help us become more adaptable, resilient, and thick-skinned. Be curious, ask questions, and embrace the differences you encounter. Remember, feeling unsure or overwhelmed is part of the journey. Most importantly, enjoy the experience and welcome the change!
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
To me, meaningful travel is more than just visiting a new place or snapping a few photos to share on social media. It’s about really immersing yourself - trying the local food, talking to people, learning the language, and connecting with the culture on a deeper level. It means stepping outside your comfort zone, being open to new experiences, and embracing everything that comes with it - even if you don't love every part of it!
