Thinking about pursuing an entrepreneurship internship in Hong Kong or a journalism internship in Madrid? Living and working in a foreign country is more than just an adventure; it’s a life-changing experience that challenges your mindset, builds global connections, and strengthens your professional skills.
You don’t need to be a seasoned traveler or fluent in multiple languages to excel. But there are key personality traits that can make or break your experience. Here are seven essential qualities you’ll need to succeed during an internship abroad:
1. A Sense of Humor.
Why it matters: You will make mistakes, whether it's mixing up words in a new language or misunderstanding cultural norms.
Learning to laugh at yourself and embrace those awkward moments is crucial. Interning abroad is full of surprises, and being able to roll with the punches (and laugh while doing it) can help you bond with co-workers, reduce stress, and make the entire experience more enjoyable.
2. Open-Mindedness.
Quote to remember: “When you travel, remember that a foreign country is not designed to make you comfortable. It is designed to make its own people comfortable.” – Clifton Fadiman.
You’re not just stepping into a new job, you’re entering a different way of life. Successful interns abroad approach their new surroundings with respect, humility, and a willingness to adapt. If you can embrace different perspectives without judgment, you’ll thrive in any international internship.
3. Curiosity.
A natural curiosity about the world around you will take you far in both your internship and your cultural experience.
Ask questions, seek understanding, and explore your environment. Whether you’re navigating a new professional landscape or trying unfamiliar foods, curiosity helps you grow and fully engage with your host country.
4. Patience.
Nothing about moving abroad happens overnight. From language barriers to cultural adjustments to learning the ropes at your new workplace, everything takes time.
Stay patient with others and with yourself. Remember, it’s okay not to have all the answers right away. Give yourself space to grow and adapt gradually.
5. Positivity.
Let’s face it: homesickness, culture shock, and language confusion can get overwhelming. But the right mindset makes all the difference.
Interning abroad comes with highs and lows. Maintaining a positive attitude helps you bounce back from setbacks and enjoy the incredible moments along the way. Your resilience will be one of your greatest strengths.
6. Independence.
An international internship pushes you to rely on yourself more than ever. You’ll be organizing your own schedule, navigating an unfamiliar city, and often starting from scratch socially.
If you can take initiative and feel comfortable being on your own, even for a little while, you’re ready for this challenge. Independence is what allows you to grow both personally and professionally during your time abroad.
7. Perseverance.
Don’t expect everything to click into place during your first week. Adjusting to a new job, culture, and lifestyle can be disorienting at first.
You’ll need perseverance to push through discomfort, confusion, and those inevitable “what-am-I-doing-here?” moments. But the rewards, like growth, confidence, and unforgettable experiences, are more than worth it.
Whether your dream is working in a startup in Hong Kong or telling impactful stories in Madrid, preparing yourself mentally and emotionally is just as important as packing your bags. These seven traits will help you make the most of your time as an international intern and turn a global opportunity into a transformative journey.
