As a recent university graduate, it’s time to find a job or, if you want to test the waters of a career first, an overseas internship. The ideal internships for recent graduates are those that allow you to build the foundations of a successful career. You’ll need to build up a network and showcase your skills, all while making yourself stand out.
Internships abroad are the perfect way to accomplish all of those things with just one position. Although there are many applicants with your exact degree and extracurricular activity experience, there are very few who have professional experience in another country. Here are four benefits of internships for recent graduates.
1. You’ll make connections
One of the most important elements of the transition from student to young professional is networking. Your first position after university should allow you to meet people in your industry and build up a strong professional network. These connections will allow you to move around more easily within the professional sphere, and people will think of you when positions open at their company. Building personal connections at your internship will also make it easy to ask for letters of recommendation, which add merit to any application. Your network could also be a support system - ideal if you're looking for advice or mentorship whilst you're doing your internship or when applying for a full-time career afterward.
2. You’ll gain transferable skills
Regardless of your chosen career field, there are a few key skills you’ll need at a base level. Internships for recent graduates will help young professionals to develop these soft skills. The best skills are transferable to different careers. Choose an internship that allows you to demonstrate your professional communication skills and your ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Many international internships also offer the opportunity to take on leadership roles in the form of managing a project or leading a presentation. Focus on customer service skills, writing skills, organization, and time management to appeal to a wide variety of organizations and career fields.
3. You’ll find a mentor
As a young professional, there is nothing more useful than a mentor. Use your internship as an opportunity to find people you admire and respect. Whether in a formal mentorship or something more informal, the input and advice of a seasoned professional are invaluable. Asking them for guidance and help might be the hardest part of the journey, but it is worth it. Many larger companies offer mentorship programs, making it easy for young professionals to get paired with a mentor, too. Find someone you admire and get their advice to help you follow in their footsteps. Going abroad for a mentor is a big plus, as they'll have suggestions and advice that can be transferable from locations, giving you a broader mindset as companies and organizations continue to expand globally.
4. You’ll stand out when applying for jobs
Thousands of students graduate from university every year, many of them with the same honors and qualifications as you. In a competitive job market, it is essential to have something that makes you stand out. Employers are looking for well-rounded, experienced young professionals who are capable of growing in a role and industry. Interning abroad is the best way to demonstrate that you are globally minded and culturally sensitive. An international internship also demonstrates that you are flexible and adaptable, able to thrive in any environment. Internships put you leagues ahead of other recent graduates when comparing CVs, and they can open up more job opportunities for you.
Now that you know about the benefits of international internships for recent graduates, apply now to make your resume stand out.
