Of all the questions I get asked, the most popular is “how did you get an internship abroad?”
I’ll be honest with you, I am pretty damn good at finding any possible way that I can travel. Whether that’s comestically or abroad, I am always on the lookout for new opportunities. I think that’s the sort of mindset you need when looking for an opportunity to intern abroad. These opportunities don’t just show up; you have to seek them out.
Now, interning abroad and going abroad are two completely different things. If you’re more interested in the traveling aspect, check out my post on How to Travel the World as a College Student, which discusses several options such as working abroad, volunteering abroad, and even cheaper ways to travel. However, for job-seeking advice, you’re in the right place.
Tip #1: Tell everyone your plans.
When I went abroad the first time, I got really really lucky. I happened to tell everyone I could that I wanted to get an internship while I was abroad. During this time, I was already being recruited by PwC, a Big 4 public accounting firm. When I went to a three-day externship in Houston, I happened to get in contact with a partner who was originally from Ireland and had a connection in Brisbane. He was able to contact Brisbane, who contacted the Sydney office, and just like that (and after a short phone interview) I had an internship for my time abroad with my firm!
Tip #2: Ask your recruiter about opportunities.
The second time I went abroad for an internship, I went abroad with my firm, PwC, for a one week internship experience in the London office. I was one of twelve interns who were able to go and it certainly was the experience of a lifetime.
See if your recruiter is able to tell you about any possible international internship opportunities. There may be international “experiences” you are able to apply for!
Tip #3: Try to get in contact with a recruiter abroad.
If all else fails, try getting in contact with a recruiter abroad. Often times, visas are the most complicated part of interning and even working abroad. If you plan on studying abroad, check out the details on your student visa and see if you can work. If you can, look up the recruiter for the firm you may want to work for abroad and see if you can get in contact with them.
Some firms offer more opportunities than others, but there is no harm in asking about your oppotunities. Not only might you get the experience of a lifetime, when you take initiative like this, you’ll come across as ambitious to your employer too!
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Please note: The shirt is originally from Nordstrom and is the Wayf brand.
It sold out during the Anniversary sale and I’ve linked the closest style I could find.
The Stella trouser pants I’m wearing are the black color.
