AIFS Abroad: Intern Abroad in Australia

I really enjoyed my internship. I feel like I got a jump ahead in terms of experience in my field of study. My coworkers and supervisors were great- very friendly and willing to help me learn. Outside of that, being in Australia was an excellent time. Even though it was winter, I was able to spend pretty sufficient time on the beach. The GE excursions included a trip to the Hunter Valley wine country and a trip to the Blue Mountains, both of which I enjoyed thoroughly. The living accommodations were nice, too.

My only issues lie not with the on-site staff, but with what GE marketed the program to be. I applied for a specific internship opportunity listed on their website (I believe it said specifically "work for a contemporary art gallery"), and I ended up working for a museum of architecture. None of my blame lies in Shani, she did a great job aligning my interests, qualifications, and the opportunities present in London this summer. However, it has felt like false marketing on GE's side to promote one thing, and provide another.

I would have no issues if instead they marketed a generalized opportunity (such as "work within the art scene of London"), rather than a niche position that I applied specifically for.

Besides that, Gregg and Shani do a fantastic job ensuring the safety and support of 75+ young adults, many of whom it is their first time in the UK. The activities Gregg puts on are always diverse, affordable, and their own unique hidden gem that made me feel like a true "Londoner". Shani somehow manages to find jobs for dozens of students and their targeted careers, while juggling communication between various companies and international students. Although the internship may not be your dream profession, no matter what, the opportunity teaches you invaluable lessons on how to pursue that career.

If you need/want an international internship and want to push your own limits in a foreign country (all while still being supported by staff and friends), I would recommend this program.

This was an amazing experience. I am so grateful I found such an amazing program that supported me every step of the way. I was able to explore the other side of the world, and develop professionally. I met other interns in so many different fields as well. The program coordinator, Andrea, was amazing! She made sure everything went smoothly from the second I landed in Australia. I have made so many amazing memories and learned so much from this experience! The scariest part about going overseas is figuring out how to do it. This program helped me every step of the way.

Working and living in Sydney was an incredible experience this summer. My local coordinator, Andrea, worked super hard to make sure we had a great place to live and she also set up a bunch of different excursions for our group. I wasn't sure what to expect on my trip, but I found a lot of comfort in both familiar foods and activities as well as new experiences. The transportation options were incredible and the city was easy to get around. I loved my time in the city and I'm looking forward to coming back to Australia whenever I can.

I have learned so many valuable lessons and skills during my internship with Global Experiences. I think one of the most important things I have learned is independence. Moving across the world is an incredibly big commitment, so to be able to do that alone is a great achievement, however, I have also had the responsibility of caring for myself without the help of family or close friends nearby. Global Experiences provided all of the resources necessary to succeed and excel in this environment, and wanted nothing but the best for us. They offered many interesting day trips and excursions for us to explore all that beautiful Australia has to offer, and really tried to make us feel at home. The program coordinator, Andrea, went above and beyond to make everyone feel comfortable, included, and welcome.
I have also found this internship to be very valuable in terms of communication and networking as you meet so many other interns through global experiences, as well as an abundance of professionals in your line of work with similar interests. This has provided me with friendships that will last a lifetime, and memories I will cherish forever!

Overall great experience. Australia was always on my bucket list and this was a great way to see Australia and gain work experience. It was great to meet other people from different Universities across the United States (and some Canadian). Sydney had everything for every interest. There was never a time where I was bored in Sydney. We took lots of day trips and some weekend trips to see different parts of Australia. If you have the chance to come, take it. It is an amazing culture to see! Also, the internship allows you to learn about the field you are interested in, but get a different perspective. You get to learn about the work life in Australia and network with many people!

I absolutely loved this program. The program adviser was amazing and it was a great experience. Sydney was an amazing place and always felt safe and had a Great support system there. Internship provided great experience and was great for resume building. Would definitely recommend to anyone wanting an internship abroad and interested in visiting/ traveling to sydney. There’s also plenty of time to travel around australia on the weekends. Also great way to meet people in sydney and other interns studying abroad.

Prior to this experience, I had never been out of the States and I had never flown before. I was more worried about the flight over here than I was about living here for 2 months. But the GE staff was accommodating and welcoming and walked me through the steps from how to apply for a visa to how to transfer currency and even just tips on making it through the airport. I ended up having to come a week later than everyone, but the GE staff, specifically Andrea, made me feel so welcome and excited.