The best international internship will be different for every UW-Madison student, based on their academic background, career goals, and unique skills. To help you get started in your search, here are a few characteristics to look for in your best internship abroad!
The internship that teaches you intercultural communication skills
Living and working in another culture is a great way to learn how to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds. In an increasingly globalized world, intercultural communication is an important skill to have in any field!
The internship that helps you become more independent and flexible
Employers named flexibility as one of the top skills they look for when hiring, and having an international internship on your resume proves that you’re independent and can adapt to a new work environment.
The internship where you practice language skills
If you speak another language, even at a beginning level, an internship abroad is a great way to practice and improve your skills! Though many internships through IIP are entirely in English, others allow you to speak another language during your internship!
The internship that helps you apply your technical skills
Many international internships offer you the chance to apply your technical skills and develop new competencies in a professional environment. Showing these abilities on your resume can be a huge advantage when applying for future jobs.
The internship where you learn to network with professionals in your field
Networking is an essential skill to start your career, but also one of the most daunting ones to practice. Internships are a great way to meet professionals in your field and make important career connections!
The internship that gives you experience teaching English abroad
Teaching English abroad is a great way to practice your leadership skills and gain a new perspective on your own language and culture. Most internships teaching English abroad don’t require any formal training or coursework, just a willingness to learn and enthusiasm for working with others.
The internship where you can explore a field that interests you
Because of their short-term nature, internships are a great way to explore a field you’re interested in and decide if it’s one you want to pursue long-term. Doing so abroad also allows you to try out living and working in a new part of the world!
The internships that sets you apart when applying for jobs or graduate school
Did you know that only about 25% of UW-Madison students study abroad during their undergraduate studies, and even fewer intern abroad? Interning abroad can be a great way to set yourself apart with a unique experience when applying to graduate school or jobs after graduation!
Though every internship is different, most of the international internships available through IIP fulfill most, if not all, of the criteria on this list. The best internship for you will depend on which of these characteristics, or others, you want to prioritize during your time abroad! If you aren’t sure what type of internship you’re looking for, IIP’s Planning Workbook can help you figure it out.
To continue exploring internships abroad, check out the IIP Database, set up an appointment with an IIP Advisor, or come to our walk-in hours 10am-1pm Fridays in 252 Bascom Hall.