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Work experience: tips from Spain

An internship is a desirable way to enhance ones CV and provides a useful edge in the battle for the all too few graduate jobs. For many employers study is no longer enough, work experience is a pre-requisite, and what better way to experience this than to intern abroad. Internships in your native country can be few and far between, however if you type ‘intern abroad’ into a search engine you will be overwhelmed with choice, as international interns are often welcomed for their fresh perspective. In today’s international era, experience of working abroad is invaluable, and also shows dedication and determination to your future career.
Internships can be paid and unpaid, with volunteering such as aid work falling into the last category. For obvious reasons paid internships are brilliant opportunities, however this does not mean unpaid internships are any less in quality. Paid internships tend to be companies looking to choose a permanent worker from select candidates, and thus are fairly exclusive as they usually offer the chance of a career. In contrast unpaid internships also offer the chance to gain work experience in between University years or to explore your options, and are in general much more flexible. Many university also encourage internships, whether it be as part of your course or as an extra curricular activity, thus they are great places for help or advice. In addition other university students may also be able to share their experience.
Regardless of which internship you choose it is essential to thoroughly research your employer, for example will the work meet your needs in terms of work place and quantity. The company website is a good place to start, moving onto any press releases or related sites, and finally to independent reviews from previous interns. There are thousands of intern places available and it is worth taking time over your decision as most internships are a minimum of a month.
One factor in the decision of which internship you choose is how you will apply. It is possible to organize your own internship by applying directly to companies which appeal to you, by sending a cover letter and curriculum vitae. However be aware you will usually have to find your own accommodation and travel arrangements, and thus your trip should be planned well in advance. Alternatively there are many companies willing to set up your whole experience, including placement and accommodation, and while this may involve extra cost it may sometimes be easier for those first time travellers. An intern company should have plenty of experience and so ease you worry and answer your questions. However research is still required as the sheer amount of companies means you should thoroughly evaluate your options, to ensure you get the right placement and best value for money.
Other aspects must be taken into account when undertaking an internship abroad as it a big commitment. You should have an awareness of the culture you are entering such as religion and customs, and check if speaking the countries language is a necessity. Also you must check the visa regulations of the country you are visiting, even if you will not be getting paid, as each countries regulations are different. This will require forward planning as a visa is your own responsibility and often it cannot be done by the internship companies. However your internship company will be able to provide information for you, as will your foreign embassy or perhaps previous participants.
So the question is, is it worth paying to gain work experience abroad? I would conclude yes. As a history student wanting to gain a journalism scholarship I found it difficult to obtain any substantial work experience, and so for me the opportunity to work abroad was great. However each experience is individual and to ensure you find the best option to you it’s a good idea to start planning at least four months in advance.
Megan French is an intern in Spain


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