Interning abroad offers a unique and rewarding opportunity to gain professional experience while immersing yourself in a different culture. Whether you're interning in vibrant Madrid or exploring the dynamic work environments of Latin America, the experience can vary widely. However, certain aspects of an international internship remain constant. Here’s a glimpse into what a typical day looks like for an international internship.
Morning:
Your day as an intern abroad generally starts with an early morning. In cities like Madrid or those in Latin America, the pace of life may seem more relaxed compared to fast-paced work environments, but the morning is still an important time to prepare for the day ahead.
In Madrid, many interns begin their day with a hearty breakfast, often at a local café. A café con leche and a pastry are staple morning choices before heading to the office. The mornings in Latin America, particularly in countries like Colombia and Argentina, may start similarly with coffee and something sweet, but you’ll likely experience the vibrant local culture right outside the door, as city streets are filled with early risers, commuters, and vendors.
Once you arrive at the office, the first part of the day is often dedicated to reviewing emails, responding to requests, and checking in with your team. In many Latin American offices, communication can be informal and friendly, with a laid-back approach to teamwork. Madrid’s work culture, on the other hand, is highly professional, with a focus on teamwork and clear communication, while maintaining a casual and sociable atmosphere.
Midday:
As the day progresses, interns often find themselves diving into various tasks that reflect the skills they’ve gained from their studies. This might mean working on research projects, drafting documents, or collaborating with colleagues on group tasks. For those in Madrid, it’s common to have a structured routine that includes working on specific projects during this time. In Latin America, interns may find themselves working in fast-paced environments, where deadlines can shift quickly, and they’ll need to adapt accordingly.
While the work itself can vary, one universal experience among interns is the opportunity to network. In cities like Madrid, you might have lunch with your colleagues, during which discussions often veer from work-related topics to personal experiences and stories. In Latin America, the cultural emphasis on building relationships makes networking an integral part of the internship. Lunch in these regions is a social event where interns abroad learn not just about the professional world, but also about the customs, food, and traditions of the local culture.
In both regions, it’s likely that your company or organization will host various events, from casual lunches to after-work meetups, allowing you to meet other professionals in your field and make lasting connections.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, as energy levels start to dip, it’s time to tackle the more challenging aspects of the internship. Whether you're interning in Madrid, Latin America, or another global destination, you’ll likely face moments where your skills are tested. Perhaps you're assigned to analyze a difficult project, coordinate with international teams, or manage multiple tasks at once. These challenges can feel daunting, but they’re opportunities for growth.
One distinct part of interning in Madrid is the opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant business environment, which can include working with international clients or contributing to global projects. Latin American offices may have a more relaxed approach to management, but this flexibility often allows interns to experiment and take on tasks with a sense of independence.
Evening:
After work, the day’s activities don't end. In Madrid, interns often take advantage of the city's thriving social scene. Whether it's grabbing drinks at a local bar, enjoying a traditional Spanish tapas dinner with colleagues, or exploring the many cultural landmarks, the evening hours are a time to experience everything the city has to offer. Madrid’s nightlife is world-famous, and as an intern, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in its rich culture.
Similarly, in Latin America, the evening provides an opportunity to connect with local colleagues and enjoy the region's culinary delights. Whether you're in Medellin enjoying a traditional dinner or finding somewhere new to hang out, the after-work hours are the perfect time to explore the culture and engage with the local community.
Interning abroad offers more than just professional development—it’s a chance to dive into a new world, make meaningful connections, and experience different ways of life. The workday may follow a similar pattern in cities around the globe, but the unique cultural flavors of each destination make every internship an unforgettable adventure.