For many people, the holiday season is a time of wish lists, gifts, and celebrations. For others, it’s simply the end of one year and the beginning of another - a perfect opportunity to set priorities and invest in experiences that truly matter.
Whether you’re writing a letter to Santa, exchanging gifts with loved ones, or simply reflecting on what you want out of the next year, consider this: instead of asking for material items, what if you asked for an experience that will change your life?
This year, think beyond the latest phone or sneakers. An international internship could be the adventure, career boost, and cultural experience that shapes your future far more than any gadget ever could.
Interning abroad introduces you to people from around the world. Programs like The Intern Group's connect you with students and young professionals across many countries, helping you build an international circle of friends and contacts that will last well beyond your internship.
Few gifts can compare to career advancement. By interning abroad, you gain hands-on experience in your field, making you more competitive in the job market. Employers value candidates who combine technical skills with a multicultural perspective.
Unlike a short vacation, an internship abroad lets you immerse yourself in a city for weeks or months. You’ll explore your destination in depth, take weekend trips to neighboring towns (or even other countries in Europe), and live a daily adventure while gaining valuable work experience.
Working in a local company means collaborating with professionals who can share their culture, traditions, and perspectives personally. Outside of work, you’ll explore local cuisine, festivals, music, and language alongside other interns, turning everyday moments into learning opportunities.
Nothing accelerates language learning like immersion. An international internship helps you practice or master another language in a professional setting, giving you an edge in an increasingly bilingual job market.
From street markets in Madrid to sunsets in Melbourne, your adventures abroad will make your Instagram feed unforgettable. Beyond the likes, you’ll have real stories and experiences behind every picture.
You don’t need to be “that person” who always brings up their time abroad, but when the topic naturally arises, you’ll have meaningful stories to share. These experiences make you more relatable, engaging, and insightful in both social and professional settings.
Working with professionals abroad gives you access to mentorship with a global perspective. These connections can provide guidance, career advice, and future opportunities across borders.
Whether you celebrate the holidays or simply see the end of the year as a time for reflection, an international internship is one of the most rewarding “gifts” you can give yourself. Unlike material items that fade with time, the friendships, skills, and experiences you gain abroad will stay with you for life.
So, instead of focusing on the latest trends, invest in something timeless: your future.