StudentUniverse.com

Many international interns plan to pursue a career overseas after graduation. But even for students who want to stay within his or her country after earning a degree, interning abroad is a fantastic way to obtain important job skills and international understanding. Foreign internships really stand out on a résumé/CV as proof that the candidate has had unique worldwide experiences that have helped shape his or her character. International interns are immersed in their host countries on a different level than even study-abroad programs can provide. A work setting in a foreign country gives an intern another insight into the culture of the host country, and to the global community at large. Many work placements abroad give interns more in-depth training, responsibilities, and hands-on experience than they could get in their home countries.

Many students have financial and time restrictions that limit their ability to travel. International internships are a great alternative to study-abroad programs, which demand at least a semester or academic year spent in the host country. Foreign internships can be arranged for any time of the year and for shorter durations. This makes it possible for students to gain international experience even if they have responsibilities, financial obligations and specific degree schedules which limit the time and resources they can devote to world travel.

Other benefits of interning overseas are similar to the ones offered by any study, work, or teaching position abroad
* Improve foreign language aptitude
* Immerse oneself in different cultures and expand cross-cultural understanding, communication, and problem-solving skills
* Form relationships with people from other countries and cultures
* Build leadership skills
* Understand new perspectives
* Combine one’s program with volunteer work, if desired

But, there are some benefits that are unique to you as an intern abroad
* Enhance both local and international professional interests
* Develop a global perspective and understanding of a given field
* Ease the transition from student life to entering the workforce
* Begin building your network of associates and professionals before you even start your full-time career
* Gain career experience that may not be available in your home country
* Increase the possibility of a higher starting salary than non-interns
* Have resume/CV-building experiences while applying academic concepts and principles

Your goals for considering such an internship will vary on the type of programs available. You may consider any of these types
* Undergraduate Internships
* Graduate Internships
* Post Graduate Internships
* Study Abroad Internships
* Volunteer Internship Programs
* Direct Internships with International Organizations
* Internship Programs and Exchanges