The Value of an International Internship Past Review

By (University of South Florida) - abroad from 01/10/2017 to 05/04/2017 with

AIFS: London - Richmond International Internship Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
The AIFS internship program in London tremendously impacted my professional development as a young professional. As a business student, employers look for students who have had relevant experience in the respective industry. Doing an internship abroad is highly valued by any employer because it shows your ability to adapt to new corporate cultures in different parts of the world. The program had a great structure in dedicating the first few weeks to interviewing with your top three companies. Fortunately, I received my first-choice company and enjoyed the culture as it allowed me to expand my professional network and be involved in real finance and accounting projects that I would later discuss with future employers. The internship was four days a week during normal business hours. I enjoyed improving my analytical skills and interpersonal skills by communicating with senior executives on the work I had been doing. I received 6 academic credits for the internship and 6 other credits for elective coursework to have a full-time, 12-credit semester. As a business student studying finance, I chose London because it is one of the financial centers of the world and I am now able to tell that to employers during job interviews. It was inspiring being in a city with like-minded individuals in my field of study and learning how to network with professionals in the industry. I interacted with fellow study abroad students, but also had the opportunity to interact with my colleagues at work. The program itself had workshops to prepare you for the workplace. For any student of any major, I would highly recommend this program because you will be able to impress your future employers by the international internship experience you had in your field of study.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Full time 12-credit semester and truly felt prepared and well-equipped with ample resources.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

New leadership made the structure a bit disorganized, but I am sure they have improved by now.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I loved living in the Ambassador house. I had two other roommates and it was a great experience overall.

* Food:

The on-campus food was satisfactory.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt fully integrated into the London culture. I was able to go out and freely explore as I pleased.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The program addressed my bronchitis immediately and gave me contact information of clinics nearby. I got better in about two weeks.

* Safety:

The onsite staff was always alert and made sure all the students were safe amidst any incidents.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $300~
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Work and save money several months before going abroad. Apply for as many scholarships as possible. Create a budget and stick to.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Friends I made
  • Internship placement
  • The freedom
* What could be improved?
  • Nothing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Do not pack so much stuff! Everything you need you can purchase in London.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.