The Best Summer of My Life – Thanks to AIFS Abroad!

Spending a summer interning in Lisbon with AIFS Abroad was easily one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. From start to finish, AIFS handled everything—securing my internship, setting up housing, preparing me for the experience with career readiness resources, and providing ongoing support while I was there. Even after the program ended, they continued to offer guidance and connections that made a lasting impact on my career. They made the entire process so seamless that all I had to do was show up, learn, and enjoy every second of it.

I interned as a Marketing Coordinator at PowerX Gym, where I got hands-on experience in content creation, event planning, and website development. I collaborated with an international team, adapted marketing strategies for different audiences, and strengthened my leadership and creativity. This experience confirmed my passion for marketing and management, and it also gave me something even more valuable—lifelong friendships. I still text and call my coworkers, and I even got to go back over Thanksgiving to visit!

But what made this experience truly unforgettable was Lisbon itself. The city is vibrant, colorful, and full of life, with historic trams, stunning viewpoints, and the best food you’ll ever have (seriously, I’m still dreaming about the pastéis de nata). Every day felt like an adventure, and AIFS made sure we experienced it to the fullest. Their on-site staff, who are Lisbon locals (in my opinion they are the most supportive, cool, and fun people), gave us the BEST recommendations on where to eat, what to see, and even local events we wouldn’t have found on our own.

One of my absolute favorite parts of the program was the weekly Sunday field trips. AIFS took us on incredible excursions to Sintra’s fairytale castles, the stunning beaches of Cascais, and even a group surf trip! These weren’t just sightseeing trips—they were bonding experiences with the other interns, making every weekend an adventure. Having these built into the program meant I got to experience so much more of Portugal beyond just Lisbon, without the stress of planning everything on my own.

For future participants: Say yes to everything! Take advantage of the incredible support from AIFS, be proactive in your internship, and immerse yourself in Lisbon’s culture. Try new foods, explore new neighborhoods, and step outside your comfort zone. This experience will change the way you see the world, and I can’t recommend it enough.

If you're looking for an internship abroad that combines career growth, cultural immersion, and a city that will steal your heart, AIFS Abroad in Lisbon is the perfect choice!