Meet our Scholarship Winners

Over the years, we've welcomed some incredible scholarship winners onto our award-winning international internship program. Each of our scholarship winners have shared their insights, lessons learned, and valuable advice for people considering an internship abroad or applying for a scholarship.

Tyler Ayah on the benefits of an internship abroad:

Interning abroad offers valuable personal and professional growth. Key benefits include:

1. New Professional Goals: Exposure to diverse work environments helps set ambitious career goals.
2. Self-Discovery: Stepping outside your comfort zone builds resilience and adaptability.
3. Improved Language Skills: Overcoming language barriers boosts communication, especially in a foreign-speaking country.
4. Increased Self-Confidence: Recognition from colleagues and sharing insights from home builds confidence.

An international internship enhances your skills, boosts your confidence, and increases your value in the competitive global job market.

On standing out at an internship in Colombia:

In my first week interning at BanColombia in Medellín, working on financial inclusion, I noticed I stand out as one of the few Black, non-Spanish speakers in the office. Initially, this made me self-conscious, especially when asked to present about my life and culture. However, I realized my uniqueness intrigued my colleagues, who saw me as worldly and brave for working abroad. My advice: try to blend in, but remember, standing out abroad is okay—it shows your courage to embrace new experiences.

On life in Colombia:

Before coming to Medellín, I had some misconceptions, but I’ve learned a lot:

• Fashion hub: Medellín mixes international chains with unique local brands—I’ve shopped more than expected!
• Food: It’s not as spicy as I thought. Dishes like Bandeja Paisa are flavorful with many cuisines to try.
• City transformation: Medellín is a vibrant, modern city, far from the Narcos stereotype.
• Coffee: Not all Colombians are obsessed with it, though I loved the coffee from the region.
• Safety: Medellín is safer than I imagined!
 

Tips for interns living in South America:

During my internship in Colombia, I learned valuable lessons. Being open to cultural differences was key—like joining a street celebration outside my comfort zone. I also took daily notes to track my skills and found Spanish classes helpful in Medellín. Exploring Colombia and connecting with locals, such as visiting a school built by a dedicated couple, deepened my cultural understanding. Lastly, I reminded myself to stay grateful, as time flies and every moment offers an opportunity for growth.

Kylie Lan Tumiatti on her life as an intern in Spain:

Living in Spain has been shaped by work, friends, and food! Though my Spanish is still improving, I’ve been using apps like Duolingo to overcome challenges in a professional environment. My welcoming housemates have made settling in easier, and exploring Madrid, from Retiro Park to the Picasso exhibit, has helped me appreciate the city’s culture. Madrid's dining is affordable, and while I’m still searching for my favorite spot, the food journey has been amazing—everything is delicious!

On cultural differences between the US and Spain:

During my time in Spain, I encountered several cultural differences. The late schedule was surprising—work starts at 9:30AM, lunch at 2PM, a siesta at 4PM, and dinner around 9 or 10PM. Affection is more common, with hugs and double kisses as greetings. Grocery shopping was challenging due to language barriers and unfamiliar products. The work environment was more relaxed than in the US, with fewer direct tasks. Lastly, I admired how stylish people in Madrid were, even in the heat.
 

Guide to food and fun on a budget:

I arrived in Spain with no bucket list, exploring based on recommendations. Here's a guide to eating and things to do in Madrid:

Places to Eat (Under 20 euros):

• El Buo: Great for large groups and giant tortillas.
• Ramen Kagura: Worth the wait for amazing noodles.
• Juicy Avenue: Quick, healthy meals like wraps and salads.
• Takos: 1-euro tacos and affordable margaritas.
• Vesuvio: Great pizza, pasta, and live dough spinning.

Places to Visit:

• Prado: Free for students, a huge art museum.
• National Museum of Archeology: Fascinating VR exhibits.
• Retiro: Ideal for picnics and rowing.
• Templo Debod: Best sunset views.
  
  

Julia Vachon on her time in Australia:

Interning with The Intern Group in Australia was unforgettable. Highlights include a road trip along the Great Ocean Road, bonding with fellow interns, a wine tour in Yarra Valley, and a wildlife experience at a sanctuary. I explored Melbourne’s nightlife, visited St. Kilda Beach, and took a weekend trip to New Zealand. The Royal Botanical Gardens and the Shrine of Remembrance provided a peaceful end to my time in Melbourne. These experiences, made possible by The Intern Group, will stay with me and shape my future endeavors.
 

Reasons to intern in Melbourne:

I decided to intern in Melbourne, Australia, and here’s why you should too:

1. Work Environment: The laid-back Aussie work culture is a refreshing change.
2. Professional Experience: International experience in a relaxed culture boosts your resume.
3. Location: Melbourne offers vibrant city life and scenic spots like the Great Ocean Road.
4. People: The city’s diverse population provides learning opportunities.
5. Coffee: Melbourne’s coffee culture is unparalleled.
6. Transportation: Efficient public transport makes exploring easy.
7. Open-Mindedness: Interning abroad broadens your worldview and opens your mind.
   
   

Alexa Rains on cultural differences between America and Melbourne:

In Australia, people work hard and then enjoy the evening, whether it’s drinks or exploring the city—a stark contrast to the US, where I relax after work. Australia is eco-friendly, with water-saving toilets, energy-efficient outlets, and solar-powered trams. My office is even solar-powered, which is impressive! Melbourne’s cultural diversity is reflected in its food scene, offering options from Korea, India, Ethiopia, and more. Customer service is less attentive—customers pay at the register, and tipping isn’t expected. Lastly, Australians laugh a lot more, with clever humor and funny stories, which I love!

Lorena Reis on why you should visit Colombia:

As the 2018 Global Leadership Grant winner, I have seven reasons to visit Colombia based on my internship:

1. Colombian food is fresh and delicious, with must-try dishes like chicharrón and arepas.
2. The Spanish language is beginner-friendly.
3. Medellín’s paisa culture is vibrant and unique.
4. Colombia is affordable for both travel and living.
5. The city's inspiring transformation from violence to innovation is impressive.
6. Numerous nearby cities and scenic spots offer endless exploration and cultural experiences.
7. Medellín’s breathtaking scenery, surrounded by mountains, combines city life with a rural atmosphere.
    

On things to do in Colombia:

Here are some highlights from my internship in Medellin:

1. Gaining valuable professional experience, including visiting a children’s home in the mountains.
2. A day trip to Guatapé, where we climbed Piedra El Peñol for stunning views.
3. A fun Escape Room challenge that helped me bond with fellow interns.
4. A visit to Pueblito Paisa for traditional vibes and a beautiful view.
5. Salsa and reggaetón classes to unwind.
6. A memorable soccer game with passionate fans.
7. A walking tour, learning about the city’s rich history and transformation.
   
   

Daniel Coleman on being a Foreign Policy intern:

I completed a foreign policy internship with Northraine, a data analysis company in Melbourne, under co-founder Martin Kemka. I researched the debate on cutting the UK's foreign aid budget to fund healthcare, analyzing its ethical, political, and technical implications. I gained insights into foreign aid’s complexities, such as measuring effectiveness and shifting priorities. I realized the foreign aid vs. NHS debate is misleading—both can be funded without a zero-sum approach. This experience deepened my understanding of global policy and funding issues, making it truly invaluable.
 

On finding an internship that's right for you:

• Know what you need to do before you go: Contact your mentor to clarify expectations, workload, dress code, and office culture. Budget wisely as Melbourne can be expensive and plan your travel and events while leaving room for spontaneity.
• Know why you’re going: Choose a location that aligns with your goals. Leverage local contacts and networking opportunities—these can lead to future career prospects.
• Know what you want to accomplish: Focus on learning and personal growth, whether in your field or exploring something new. Take advantage of resources like events from The Intern Group to enhance your CV and LinkedIn.
  
  

Streisanne on applying for the Latin America scholarship:

Since arriving in Medellin, I've fallen in love with the city, and I’m grateful to spend 4 more weeks here as a Latin America scholarship winner. I chose Colombia for several reasons:

1. It's perfect for practicing Spanish—almost no one speaks English, which forces me to improve.
2. The scenery is breathtaking, like the view from The Rock of Guatape.
3. I can explore other parts of South America, like the upcoming trip to Bogota.
4. It's affordable, with last-minute trips still costing reasonable prices.
5. Medellin is underrated, offering great opportunities for learning Spanish and travel.
   
   

On cultural differences between Canada and Colombia:

Interning in Colombia is more relaxed than in Canada. Workdays are longer (8am - 6pm), but there’s more time for socializing and breaks, like dance sessions - my welcoming coworkers included me in activities such as salsa dancing. Although adjusting to the slower pace took time, I learned to take breaks and ask for more work. Unlike Canada, where tasks are assigned, I had the freedom to suggest what I wanted to do. My supervisor offered more independence with fewer check-ins. Overall, my experience in Colombia has been rewarding and social.

Hiwot Adane Haile on life lessons learned in Hong Kong:

It’s been a week since I arrived in Hong Kong for my internship, and it’s already one of my best decisions. The culture shock and language barrier pushed me outside my comfort zone, but it’s been rewarding. I’m interning at a large NGO, working with passionate people from around the world. I’ve learned that trying new things, like using chopsticks, is key, and that we share more similarities than differences. Despite our backgrounds, we all have the same goals, which has been a valuable realization.
 

On packing for Hong Kong:

As I prepared for my internship in Hong Kong, I learned a few essential packing tips:

• Resume and business cards: Networking is key, so bring these to maximize connections.
• Favorite snacks and spices: Having familiar comforts helps ease homesickness.
• Walking shoes, backpack, and water bottle: Prepare for lots of walking and hiking around the city.
• Weather-appropriate clothing: Pack light, breathable clothes for the hot, humid summer months.
• Excitement and curiosity: The most important thing to bring is your eagerness to explore and experience everything Hong Kong has to offer!

Hassan Ahmed's first week in Hong Kong:

Coming from a third-world country near a tribal region where lawlessness is common, interning in Hong Kong was a huge leap for me. As a Pashtun, breaking through cultural barriers of dogmatism and fanaticism made this opportunity even more significant. After one week in Hong Kong, I’m amazed by the city’s development, organization, and discipline. The first few days were challenging with commuting, but my flatmate, Colin, showed me how to navigate the MTR system, which is incredibly efficient and well-organized. Now, I love it.

On exploring Hong Kong:

Wong Kar-Wai’s Chungking Express is my favorite film, so I was thrilled to visit Chungking Mansions during my Hong Kong internship. Located in Tsim Sha Tsui, the building’s “sketchy” atmosphere mirrors the film’s themes of loneliness and love. I discovered it while exploring and later returned with friends. Known for South Asian eateries, I enjoyed authentic Pakistani/Indian food at Khyber Pass on the 6th floor. Despite its reputation, I felt safe and highly recommend visiting for a unique Hong Kong experience.

 

Luis R. Sosa Santiago on winning the 2015 The Intern Group scholarship:

I applied for The Intern Group 2015 scholarship for a 6-week internship in Medellín, Colombia, hoping to advance my career in Corporate Social Responsibility in Latin America. As a senior at Seton Hall University studying Diplomacy, International Relations, and Latin American studies, winning the scholarship made me proud and grateful for my community's support. I’m excited about Colombia’s diverse market, multinational corporations, and vibrant culture. This internship offers a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience, deepen my understanding, and make a more informed career decision.
 

Now you've heard our scholarship winners' inspiring stories, create one for yourself and apply now for an international internship.