Ever wondered how you turned out to be who you presently are and how you got there? Or what it’s like to be the best version of yourself and why aren’t you there yet? Auspiciously, all of the answers are in this very moment. The decisions you’ve made so far have molded you into who you are. The decisions you make subsequently paint a picture of your tomorrow, your reality and your potential future. This is my personal response to the question, ‘why intern abroad?’.
Working and experiencing life abroad gives you the chance to truly discover your strengths and weaknesses. It also allows you to reaffirm your core values and rekindle a sense of exuberance. Most importantly, it allows you to find yourself.
It’s always easier said than done when it comes to opportunities outside your comfort zone. However, it also makes your life a bit easier when you go out there and challenge yourself before life challenges you. All it takes is a change of mindset. The most critical time is when you’re faced with a doubtful thought. What you also do not realize, is how much power you hold in the defining moment of the thought.
Fear. Disappointment. Overthinking. It is inevitable. Simply remind yourself, “Why am I here? Who am I created to be and what are my core beliefs?” More often than not, the answers are already within you. You intuitively know when to align yourself with an incredible opportunity. Invite yourself into countries that boast some of the greatest architectures, arts and cultures, notable figures and performers. Reawaken your creative thoughts and gain a rewarding professional experience all at once. The Intern Group program is the perfect combination. It combines the workplace by day and a number of spectacular events by night, such as the amazing Flamenco night in Madrid.
Postponing thoughts, ideas or even situations you know could turn your life around for the better is a hindrance to your career path. Discontinue the unproductive cycle of wanting but not doing, merely waiting and not reaching out. There’s so much that belongs to you. All you have to do is get to a point of affirmation and reiterate “actually, I can”. Especially when you are faced with a daunting decision you know you should strive for. More often than not, living abroad reveals a new you and that can only be manifested when you overcome the things you once thought you couldn’t accomplish.
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure – Marianne Williamson
Madrid, Spain is where I decided to live and work for my summer internship. Initially, I had received an offer in London. However, having studied my undergraduate degree in the UK, I instinctively knew that I had to delve into an unfamiliar environment and challenge myself. I had never been to Madrid nor did I know anyone there. It was a whole new space, a new awakening.
Fast forward to my final week at a Data Security company and I had the opportunity to work in three different departments: Finance, Marketing and Sales. I gained insight on the importance of meaningful work. This included commercial acumen, new perspectives, the essence of personal branding, valuable business relationships and a boost on my global skillsets. Experience was definitely my best teacher!
Life away from the norm prompts a shift in your professional maturity and personal responsibilities. I undeniably got to rediscover, unlearn, fine tune my interpersonal technical expertise on the financial world and reconnect with the unknown. A daily mantra I go by is “elevate your perspective”. Create a beautiful, inspiring story as you build a new you. Realize the true power of your mind and empower yourself to always have an appetite for greatness.
Traveling makes you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller. -Ibn Battuta
No one wants to relive the dull moments so why not make the most of the present. I know that one cannot go wrong by exploring beautiful landscapes, discovering their hidden features and truly inspiring oneself. Mingle with people you’d never thought to cross paths with. Share your ludicrous stories with other interns from around the world. Form long lasting companionships and don’t forget to seize the moment. Be present.
Photos
All photos by Brenda Kiggundu.