Why did you decide to intern abroad with CAPA in London?
Julia: I needed an internship for my major's requirements but I also wanted to go abroad. I was planning on doing them in separate semesters but since I am majoring in International Media it made more sense to get work experience internationally. This was also a great chance to experience a work environment outside of the United States and to get a better understanding of different work cultures. This understanding is vital for the future due to the globalization of all industries. CAPA offered the ideal program which included a part-time internship in any field. While you have to apply for an internship based on merit and previous work experience, CAPA still uses their connections to secure everyone a great placement. You are not just handed an internship, you have to put the effort in to creating a good resume and cover letter to capture the interest of the best companies in your field. However, CAPA does takes care of getting the placement for you.
What made this internship experience unique and special?
Julia: CAPA secured me an internship in a company that had everything I was looking for. I got to be in London, the film and television hub of Europe, and work along side young professionals who were talented and willing to teach me. I was given a variety of jobs and tasks, then when I had proven I could handle them I was given more responsibilities and interesting tasks. I wanted to work and they gave me amazing opportunities. Because I am a student in their country to learn, they were very interested in what I wanted to do. I want to be a producer in film and television so they gave me the opportunity to try it out and they worked with me on setting a career path. My boss went the extra mile to become my mentor.
Another very special thing was I was in London. I had to run errands and go on shoots all over the city so I really got to know my way around. I became a wiz at short cuts and taking the tube to get to where I needed as quickly as possible. Learning about a new place opens up your mind.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Julia: Because they follow an English style of teaching and learning, which is very presentation and paper oriented, I have become extremely confident with my writing. It has always been a weak point with me but the volume of papers and the helpful feed back really improved my writing skills. I am actually disappointed I don't have more essays this semester.
I have grown and had my eyes opened to new things. I have gained perspective on America and my identity. I had never Identified myself as "American" until I was abroad. I started reading the news and being aware of what was happening not only in London or the US, but all over the world. I also became even more independent and was able to plan trips and travel to new and different places alone or with a friend.
Through CAPA's classes I networked with other students, professors, and staff who had similar interests or were working in media. I got a lot of business cards and made many connections, as well as friends.
At my internship I not only got to work with the incredible people at my company but I also got to meet and network with other professionals in my field. I attended work events, such as film festivals, premieres, client parties, and red carpet events. I got to learn a lot just by watching these professionals work. I was also very diligent and worked very hard as I always do and my internship company took notice. I have a possible position at the company if I want to relocate after I graduate.
What is one piece of advice you would offer something considering interning abroad in London?
Julia: Do it!!! Not everyone gets the opportunity to intern in London. American interns are very desirable there because interning is not very popular among British students. You might get a better internship opportunity there than you would get in America because the market here for interns is so saturated. It will also stand out on your resume and give you an advantage in an interview situation. I had an interview recently and had so much to talk about with this director and he was really interested in my experience in London. I have his card to have a second interview after I graduate.
