Moving abroad for an internship is an exciting opportunity, but adjusting to a new environment can take time. Whether you're interning in London, New York, Tokyo, or Melbourne, settling in smoothly will help you make the most of your experience.
Here are five essential tips to help you feel at home while interning abroad:
1. Personalize Your Living Space
One of the best parts of The Intern Group program is that your accommodation is pre-arranged, so you can start settling in right away. Decorating your room with familiar touches like photos, fairy lights, and posters will create a cozy and comfortable atmosphere, making you feel at home abroad faster.
2. Establish a Routine
Before starting your internship, take a day to explore your neighborhood. Find a local grocery store, gym, coffee shop, or park—these places will become part of your daily or weekly routine, helping you feel more connected to your surroundings. A structured routine provides stability and makes the transition easier.
3. Make Friends with Roommates & Colleagues
Unlike study abroad programs, internships can make socializing a bit more challenging. A great way to start is by befriending your roommates—they're likely in the same situation as you. Spend time in common areas, organize flat dinners, or plan group outings to explore the city together.
At work, take the initiative to invite colleagues for lunch or after-work drinks. Building friendly but professional relationships will enhance your work experience and provide insider tips on local culture, restaurants, and activities. Establishing friendships early on will make your time abroad more enjoyable.
4. Join Clubs & Social Groups
Expand your network beyond work by joining local clubs, sports teams, or hobby groups. Whether it’s a dance class, running club, or a language exchange, these activities help you meet like-minded people while continuing your hobbies.
Explore expat communities, Facebook groups, or apps like Meetup to connect with other interns and travelers in your city. Don’t be afraid to take the first step—friendships abroad often start through small connections!
5. Maintain a Positive Attitude
Adjusting to a new country takes time. Cultural differences, unfamiliar foods, and new social norms can feel overwhelming at first. However, staying open-minded and patient will make the transition smoother.
It can take about two months to feel fully settled in a new country. Homesickness and culture shock are normal, but they fade with time. Focus on exploring, making new friends, and embracing every opportunity.
Interning abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that allows you to gain international work experience, explore new cultures, and build lifelong connections. While challenges may arise, the adventures, friendships, and career growth will make it all worthwhile.
When you look back, you’ll cherish the experiences, the people you met, and the skills you gained—and those initial nerves will be nothing but a distant memory!