Alumni Spotlight: Veronica Stracqualursi

Veronica Stracqualursi studied and interned abroad in London from September to December of 2012. She interned for Filmbeat, a video production company, and Raindance.tv, the Raindance Independent Film Festival’s website. She is studying journalism and communication at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and aspiring to be a television news reporter. She is a lover of movies, travel, trying new foods, and meeting new people.

Veronica interned in London

Why did you decide to intern abroad with CAPA in London?

Veronica: I was always attracted to the city of London. I love that it is so diverse, lively, and I knew London to be notable for its news reporting. Because I want to be a journalist, I thought it would be beneficial for me to do an internship in London. CAPA was the perfect program in that it allowed to me take classes and do an internship. I also found it appealing that CAPA set up the internship for you.

What made this internship experience so unique and special?

Veronica:The people I met and interned with made my intern abroad experience unique and special. Since the people I worked with were British, I got to know them, their culture, and outside opinions on America. They told me about holidays, slang, celebrities, pubs and clubs, sports, fashion, which beers and food to try or to avoid, and music. Also, the office I worked in was so casual – at least much more so than any American office I worked in. I felt less stressed to work and looked forward to going to my internship especially on Fridays, when after work we would all go out for a pint after.

How has this experience impacted your future?

Veronica:I know for a fact I want to come back to London and possibly would live in London if I could find a job. Since my internship is on my resume, it often serves as a talking point during an interview. In the interview, I bring up what I learned and the skills I improved upon. I think it helps to intern abroad because it shows your future employers you’re willing to try something different and that you’re more cultured.

What is one piece of advice you would give someone considering interning abroad in CAPA?

Veronica: Be proactive at your internship. Ask if there are tasks that need to be done around the office or if anyone needs help. Volunteer to try new things or go to events so that you can learn more and get the most out of your internship.

Abbey Road: Veronica's recreation while interning in London