You’ve been working hard on your studies and have your sights set on that dream job once you reach the finish line. In the meantime, you’re looking for that edge that will set you apart from every other eager beaver looking to impress in today’s highly competitive job market. Enter World Endeavors – your one-stop destination for the best internships in the world.
A recent global snapshot of over 26,000 respondents shows that employers value communication, teamwork, problem-solving and flexibility as the most important skills they are looking for in new graduates. An internship in a foreign country fosters these skills, and plenty more. It follows then, that interns who have spent meaningful time abroad end up on employer shortlists more often than those who have stayed home to work at their usual summer job (while they completed that Business or Arts major).
It’s a no brainer, right? But what makes a great place to intern abroad? And where should you go on your internship? With so many options to choose from, the choices are endless, but with the help of industry leaders, we aim to make the decision-making process just that little bit easier.
What Are the Best Countries for Internships Abroad?
Where are the best countries to intern abroad? Everyone loves a list. But before we dive a little deeper into the best places for internships, let’s consider for a moment how we narrowed it down to our top seven.
In a process of elimination, we looked at the different types of programs that are offered around the world and matched this with the global footprint of where key industries and major companies operate. We also considered the history, culture and range of things to do that a particular country is renowned for. It shouldn’t all be nose to the grindstone. Ultimately, the best countries to intern abroad will offer the best work-life balance. Here are seven options in no particular order to get you started.
1. South Africa
South Africa is sometimes considered a contradiction in terms. On the one hand, it is embarrassingly rich in culture, natural beauty and wildlife – a feast for the senses that will make you feel like a kid in a candy store. On the other hand, the socio-economic divide between the haves and have-nots seems way too wide to be bridged any time soon.
But for the intern with an eye on social work, youth or sports development as a career, South Africa is still one of the best places to intern, providing a melting pot of opportunities where you can make a real difference. Fill the gaps in your stay with a wildlife safari in Kruger National Park, a hike up Table Mountain or a coastal journey to some of the best beaches in the world.
2. Australia
The Land Down Under. Home of the Vegemite sandwich, Crocodile Dundee and that strange football game called Aussie Rules, where anything goes. Also home to a number of creepy-crawlies that consistently top the ‘world’s most deadly animals lists’, but don’t let that stop you from considering Australia as a really good place to intern.
Surf Bondi beach. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef. Take a road trip to the Australian outback. Australia’s breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle make it an ideal destination for work-life balance. It’s why Australians consider it the lucky country. With an internship in media, marketing or veterinary science under your belt, you might end up feeling the same way.
3. Costa Rica
Spot a red-eyed tree frog, a three-toed sloth or a ‘Jesus Christ’ basilisk lizard walking on water. As one of the most biodiverse countries on the planet and a premier ecotourism destination, Costa Rica offers the intern with an interest in environmental conservation, biology, or sustainable development, the ideal opportunity to self-improve in nature’s backyard.
Spend time in the rainforest. Immerse yourself in the Costa Rican culture. Add a Spanish language bow to your resume quiver. Costa Rica is a tropical paradise that may not have been on your bucket list, but probably should be – it’s arguably one of the best places you can intern abroad.
4. Czech Republic
Do you like the idea of a European experience but you’re not interested in the conventional, crowd-pleasing countries that seem to top most lists? If you are a budding wine-maker, why not consider the Czech Republic, instead of France, Italy or Spain, the usual connoisseurs.
When you’re not busy with your internship at a Prague winery, get up early and take a walk across the stunning Charles Bridge, check the Astronomical Clock at the Old Town Square or marvel at Prague Castle while the tourist tide is low. The historical beauty on show at every corner makes the Czech Republic one of the most interesting places for internships.
5. Ireland
The Irish are renowned for their friendly nature and love of a good time, but it’s not all Guinness and gold in the land of shamrocks and leprechauns. There’s work-a-plenty too.
Ireland’s thriving economy and dynamic job market make it one of the most exciting places to intern abroad, especially if your heart lies in the technology sector. Google, Apple, Facebook, Twitter and Microsoft have all established headquarters in Dublin, underscoring the reputation Ireland has built as a place of innovation (with an enticingly low company tax rate sweetening the deal). Tech giants worldwide have raised a glass to that. Slainte.
6. Thailand
Movie buffs may recall the striking scenery of Leonardo Di Caprio’s ‘The Beach’. Filmed at Thailand’s Kho Phi Phi Leh island, promo stills from the movie could have easily slotted under the word ‘idyllic’ in any dictionary. If this made you think “I’d love to go there one day”, then Thailand is a fantastic option to consider.
Its rapidly expanding economy spans industries such as tourism, manufacturing and agriculture, making it an incredibly enriching destination for your international internship. If your interest lies in Agricultural Science for example, you could play a role in evaluating the effects of farming techniques. And you may find some time hidden up your farmers’ sleeve to swap the rich, fertile soil of Thai farmland for sandy beaches and a chilled tropical drink.
7. Morocco
From renewable energy and technology startups to tourism and artisan crafts, Morocco is one the best places to intern, especially if cultural immersion is just as important as the hands-on experience in your chosen field.
This is where African, Arabian and European cultures collide. Get lost in a labyrinth of bustling medinas in the ancient city of Marrakech. Try a spicy tagine with your mint tea while snake charmers, acrobats and storytellers ply their trade. Trek with camels to the dunes of the Erg Chebbi desert and spend the night in a Bedouin tent. It’s a cross-cultural feast that will enrich your resume no end.
How to Find the Best Place for Internships
There are lots of ways to make your dream of working abroad come true. But — not many are as meaningful as the approach taken by the team at World Endeavors. Most interns want important questions answered, like “How can I earn credit from my internship?” or “What are the benefits of interning abroad?” Well, we can answer those questions for you! Here are some of the reasons why you should intern with World Endeavors.
The team at World Endeavors is quick to point out that they are neither travel agents nor traditional educators, but rather a group of like-minded people who bring travel and education together. They call it experiential learning. “We connect people with people. When a participant is able to become immersed in a local community, cultural and language-learning come alive.”
Dedicated program advisors – tick. Comprehensive pre-departure information – check. Experienced in-country staff – yep. And an alumni network to help you pursue your career when you return. World Endeavors has got your back. Why not get in touch today?
This blog was written by Cathy Park Kelly
If you would like to know more about the contents of this blog post or would like to receive information about similar experiences, then please connect with one of our advisors through the contact form.
