Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine ever since I started applying to colleges. When I finally chose to go to FSU and went on my freshman year orientation, I attended a short lecture about FSU International Programs (IP) and what they offer. This is where I found out about what would soon be my future: interning abroad.
Not many people know that this is even an option, as studying abroad is advertised as really just that: studying abroad. A lot of people end up not being able to study abroad because of the small number of classes offered abroad, which are mainly classes you would take during your freshman and sophomore years. However, if you are a junior and beyond, interning abroad is an absolutely amazing experience that others simply won’t have. FSU IP has connections to literally almost every industry you can think of, from fashion in Florence to the UK Parliament in London.
why you should intern abroad
There are hundreds upon thousands of good reasons to intern abroad, but these are some of the main reasons why I chose to intern abroad.
First, you don’t need to take a full course load. I’m only taking two courses to finish up my university requirements, and I’m getting internship credit for six hours under my major. This is especially useful for those who don’t have enough classes to take when studying abroad regularly, as you only have to take two courses. In order to participate in the internship program, you need to have declared your major (AKA have at least 60 credit hours). This opens up many doors for those who are juniors or seniors who don’t have many university requirements left to take and don’t want to waste elective spaces to study abroad.
Another reason to intern abroad is that this is an absolutely amazing opportunity for your work experience! As a Political Science major, being able to have an internship experience that isn’t based in the U.S. is so valuable, as it gives me an opportunity to see and grow a new perspective on government. This is also great for International Affairs majors or for those interested in specific industries that have a large hub in another country (such as fashion).
things to keep in mind
While getting an internship abroad is such a cool experience, it’s definitely not the best decision for everyone, so here are some things to keep in mind when you are deciding or preparing for the internship.
price
One thing to keep in mind for studying abroad in general is the price. It is very, very expensive and if this internship isn’t something that you’re looking forward to, it won’t be worth it. This type of experience is best for those who will gain valuable experience in their chosen field.
start early
If you decide that you want to go forward with this invaluable opportunity, start as early as possible! Even before the application opens, keep in contact with FSU International Programs and get everything prepared beforehand. For the internship program, you need many more application materials, such as letters of recommendation and your resume. It would be best to get started beforehand so you aren’t rushing for deadlines. This process is complicated and needs a lot of tender love and care to complete.
check your requirements
Make sure you have at least two university requirements left in your schedule. As I talked about before, you will usually take two other courses while you’re interning abroad. Unless you’re okay with using elective spaces during your time abroad, make sure to check the IP website to see what exact classes they’re offering each semester, as it varies.
choose your semester abroad carefully
One of the most important things to keep in mind when deciding when you will intern abroad is the semester you will be leaving behind at FSU. For example, if you absolutely cannot live without football season, go during your spring or summer semester. If you want to experience fall in another country and try to avoid the rain, go during the fall! For me, I knew that I couldn’t miss Thanksgiving with my family and would much rather miss spring break, so I chose to study abroad in the spring semester. Also, if your schedule is way too packed during regular full semesters, a summer semester abroad is a great option!
how I am preparing for London
One thing that London is known for is the rain and the lack of sunlight during the earlier months of the spring semester. I love sunshine, so this will definitely take some getting used to. I think with all the things we will have planned though, I won’t really notice it too much.
I’m also trying to learn from friends who have studied abroad in London or other places before. I have a few friends that I’ve made through this program who have already done this all before, so I’ve been able to ask them questions and figure out exactly what life will be like over there before I arrive.
Speaking of friends, I have been going to many IP events and finding people who are studying abroad the same semester as me to make some friends. Going to a different country for months on end is a very scary experience, but being able to make some friends before I go makes it much less daunting.
I’m also downloading apps to help me during this time. For example, I’ve downloaded CityMapper to help me navigate the complicated bus and tube system that I’ll need to get used to. I also downloaded some other lifestyle apps like TooGoodToGo that connects people with restaurants and shops that offer their leftover food at the end of the day for a cheap price. There is no Suwannee in London, so I need to fend for myself food-wise, and this is a great option!
how I feel
It’s hard to put into words exactly how I feel about this opportunity. I’m incredibly grateful to have the support of my friends and family during this time, as it’s a huge step both professionally and personally. This type of experience is something that not many get to do, and I am eternally appreciative of it and am sure to cherish this experience for a lifetime. I can’t wait to see what’s to come!
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