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Curious about what it’s really like to do an international internship? Two of our Alumni Ambassadors, Juliet Watkin-Rees and Mateusz Andrulewicz from the University of Birmingham (UK), interviewed each other to share their experiences interning abroad with The Intern Group.
1. Where did you go?
Juliet: I spent six months interning at a marketing agency, Iris Worldwide, in New York. I lived in the Upper East Side with other Intern Group participants.
Mateusz: I completed a six-week internship with a digital marketing agency called Dragon Social in Hong Kong.
2. What was the best part of your experience?
Juliet: It’s hard to choose just one highlight because the whole experience was life-changing. What I loved most was living the day-to-day New York lifestyle, beyond the typical tourist spots. Becoming part of the city, even the commute, felt fascinating. Every day brought something new, from street performances to basketball games, or even rainbow-colored foods to try. The experience gave me a real insight into living and working abroad, and it’s inspired me to keep exploring other vibrant cities.
Mateusz: For me, the best part was building a new life in a completely different country. At first, Hong Kong felt overwhelming, but The Intern Group’s support network made adapting much easier. I loved my work environment, but I also made the most of my weekends exploring the city with other interns. By the end of the six weeks, I felt confident I could adjust quickly to life in a different culture - something that will help me in my career and future travels.
3. How did you discover The Intern Group?
Juliet: I first found The Intern Group online while looking for study abroad alternatives. I was drawn to the opportunity to intern in New York but hesitated at first because it seemed too good to be true. What reassured me was learning that the University of Birmingham partnered with The Intern Group and even offered discounts. The J-1 visa support and guaranteed accommodation near other interns were also huge benefits.
Mateusz: I discovered The Intern Group at a University of Birmingham Work Experience Fair. After speaking with a representative and doing some research, I knew it was the perfect way to spend my summer. I liked that the program combined quality internship placements with the chance to live abroad and meet other young people in the same situation.
4. What did you learn from your international internship?
Juliet: I gained so much from my internship, but most importantly, I learned to be confident in my abilities. Throwing yourself into a new environment proves what you’re capable of. I also learned not to dwell on mistakes - everyone makes them, and in a professional setting, the key is to learn quickly and move forward.
Mateusz: My biggest lesson was that you can’t prepare for everything, especially when moving abroad. Culture shock is real, but it’s part of the process. I realized that as an intern, no one expects you to be an expert. You’re there to learn and grow. In just six weeks, I developed more than I ever expected, both professionally and personally.
5. Do you have any tips for future applicants?
Juliet: Find a way to document your experience. It’s a time of growth you’ll want to remember. I kept a diary and later created a photo book, while some friends made videos or blogs. One of my favorite memories was taking part in the Women’s March in New York in 2017, and I’m so glad I captured it to look back on.
Mateusz: Plan your free time carefully because it goes by fast. Researching in advance not only prepares you but also helps you get excited before you arrive. Thanks to my planning, I was able to see everything I wanted in Hong Kong, and even helped other interns discover new places.
