Why did you decide to intern abroad with CAPA in Australia?
Emily: I decided to intern abroad with CAPA in Sydney because of many reasons; I have always wanted to go to Australia so I thought this would be a great opportunity for me to visit the country and I was really pleased with how the internship program worked. In addition, I really wanted to gain experience in my field and see how business worked in another country. CAPA Sydney had the best of both worlds for me and I felt like it was the perfect match. The three-month experience felt just perfect because I wasn’t home sick and I spent enough time interning where I actually learned so much about the company I was working for and about Australia in general. I also felt as though Sydney was the perfect location because it allowed me to travel and go to the beach on weekends while still having a city experience at the same time. It was a great resume builder and I grew immensely from the experience.
What made this internship experience so unique and special?
Emily: My internship was certainly unique and special! We had a small office with so much diversity: there were two Australians, an Irishman, another American, and the British owner. Not only did I learn about the Australian commerce world, I learned a little bit about the European commerce world as well. Since it was such a small office, the staff and I grew very close like a mini family away from home. I felt like I was a person in the office as opposed to a number. I also was really involved in the daily operations of the business; I had my own clients and even an office title. I got to the point where I was even comfortable enough to answer the phones and take care of the clients without having to ask questions or transferring the call.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Emily: This experience has impacted my life immensely. Professionally, I have gained invaluable knowledge from my field and learned skills and values I might not have learned in America. I made life-long connections that I can always rely on and real life experience. This makes me a more valuable candidate for the job search and a step up above the rest. Personally I have learned so much about myself and feel like I can take on the world. I fell more confident about travel, making friends and exploring new places. Academically I feel as though I have gained knowledge that many other people aren’t exposed to. I made life long friends, learned so much and I will always bring my Australian experience with my anywhere I go.
What is one piece of advice you would give someone considering interning abroad in Australia?
Emily: If I were to offer one piece of advice for someone who was thinking about interning in Australia, it would be to take advantage of everything they have to offer. Sydney is a huge center of business in Australia no matter what field you are in and there is so much to learn. There are so many differences between the workplace in the states and abroad so it’s very important to observe and take it all in. It is also customary to go out with coworkers after a long day to a pub for a few drinks and that is a great way to make personal and professional connections outside of the workplace. Plus, you could meet local Australians this way and get their point of view on different things. Take every opportunity that is presented to you and you will learn so much about yourself and grow immensely.