Adaeze in Seville - Candidate Spotlight - Adelante Abroad

Candidate Spotlight: Internship in Seville – Adaeze C.

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Adaeze in Seville - Candidate Spotlight - Adelante Abroad

Why Choose to Intern in Seville?

President of Art Museum - Adaeze - Internship in Seville - Adelante AbroadChoosing Seville was easy, after speaking with a close friend who lived in Spain for many years, she suggested Seville because of the warmth of the people and its many festivals and holidays throughout the year like the ‘Semana Santa’ and ‘Fería de Abril’ which she knew I would enjoy. In addition to that, I was sold when she said the people from Barcelona speak a whole other language, Catalan, which may have been a bit difficult for me to grasp since I had only been taking Spanish lessons for two months prior to my leaving.

More About My Internship Program in Seville

Adaeze - Art Museum - Internships in Seville - Adelante AbroadMy internship has been an invaluable experience thus far and a turning point in my life. Besides experiencing independence from my parents (living on my own) for the first time, which I must admit feels amazing, what I am cherishing the most is embracing this new chapter and being present in the moment, experiencing every step towards creating a bright future for my family and country with respect to preserving the legacy of my father. The internship placement at ´Fundacion Pintor Amalio´ was a perfect choice, there are many similarities between my father and the painter Amalio. Amalio was a teacher, artist and poet, who created a foundation and donated ´365 Gestures of the Giralda´ 8 days before his death in 1995. The Foundation is currently headed by one of his daughters María José.

I am learning so much and really cannot wait to implement what I have learned when I return home. I am truly inspired. Spain is a magical place overflowing with love and appreciation for its culture. I believe I am well on my way and eternally grateful to Adelante Abroad for making it possible.

 

 

 

About the Contributor:

Adaeze is currently taking part in a 6-month art internship in Seville, Spain. Hear more about Adaeze’s journey on her blog!

Want to learn more about our program? Check out our internships in Seville!

Tools and Apps to Learn Spanish Easily - Adelante Abroad

Best Spanish Learning Apps and Websites

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Tools and Apps to Learn Spanish Easily - Adelante Abroad

Living in a foreign country means being immersed into a different culture and a new language. Many of our candidates who travel to Spain, Mexico, Ecuador, Uruguay, or Chile are nervous about relying on an unfamiliar language with their limited speaking or reading skills. Trying to learn Spanish can be a difficult feat for anyone. However, we have Spanish language tools and apps to help you brush up on your skills or even take your learning to the next level!

 

Free Spanish Learning Apps

Duolingo Tool for Spanish Learning| Adelante Abroad

(picture via venturebeat.com)

Duolingo

This app is completely free, for apple and android, and is a great tool for learning Spanish. It breaks down all information into sections, helping you understand everyday phrases and key terms. Our favorite aspect of Duolingo is the microphone use. This is unique because you cannot move onto the next section unless you can pronounce words and phrases correctly. When you download this application be sure to approve microphone use in order to take advantage of this one of a kind feature.

Memrise App For Learning Spanish For Free | Adelante Abroad

Memrise

Memrise is another free option for apple and android users. It remains free for the most part, besides offering some in-app purchases. The best part about this Spanish language tool is that it repeats the words multiple times and gives answers in multiple choice format. Seeing the words mixed into different phrases is more challenging but also extra beneficial. Get this app, turn up your sound, and start learning!

 

Paid Spanish Learning Apps

FluentU

Available to Apple users, and soon available to Android users, FluentU is a Spanish learning tool that is accessible for $15 a month (Be sure to take advantage of the free trial before committing to this tool). This application is unique because it offers a special type of training. FluentU focuses on an online language immersion technique, turning music videos, TV shows, and commercials into a learning experience. This is exactly why FluentU is on our top list of Spanish language tools. This app helps users to understand everyday words and phrases by using a type of language immersion. Download FluentU and start studying Spanish today!

 

Best Websites To Learn Spanish Online

TakeLessons

If you want the option of learning the Spanish language face-to-face with a teacher, TakeLessons is the best option for you! TakeLessons.com offers paid lessons online or in person with local language teachers. These language experts will help you learn either online or at a local destination. Prices generally range from $15 to $50 per 30 to 45 minute session (Keep in mind prices will range by length of session and the skill of your teacher). What we love about TakeLessons is the flexibility of location (online or in person), schedule, and price. This is one of the only websites that offer face to face lessons online or in person, so take advantage of this amazing tool and schedule your lesson asap!

BaseLang

At BaseLang.com, you get unlimited one-on-one Spanish tutoring with professional teachers, over Skype, for just $129 a month. This program focuses on helping beginners to learn and practice to become conversationally fluent. Classes are online and unlimited, meaning that you can take 30 minutes a day if needed or even 4-5 hours per day to become fluent in as little as 1-2 months.
We have listed some amazing applications above. Be sure to take advantage of these Spanish language tools and begin learning today. If you are interested in putting your Spanish to use, or learning in a country where you will be fully immersed, check out our internships abroad in Spain, Mexico, Ecuador, Chile, and Uruguay.

Internships in Barcelona | Featured Program | Adelante Abroad

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5 Tips to Saving Money for Your Internship Abroad: Part I

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[This is a two-part series to help you save and earn some extra money for your internship abroad trip. Part I has tips on saving money for your trip with your current job or cash flow. Part II includes tips on earning extra money without picking up three jobs and sacrificing your studies.]

 

Congratulations on making the decision to take on an internship abroad! Whether you’re doing it to gain college credit, gain work experience, or make an impact abroad, this is going to be one of the most memorable events in your life.

With the decreasing resources and scholarships available through college, however, more and more of our candidates are searching for ways to afford their program of choice. So many students will not even apply for a program this year due to doubts about getting the funds in time. It’s totally normal to have these concerns, and we’re here to help you!

If it can happen to Kristen Wiig, it can happen to all of us.

Fortunately, there are plenty of strategies for saving up for your internship that doesn’t have to involve picking up a second job during college. Saving money is a great habit of create during college, but here are some tips to help you grow that savings account to help accommodate for your program!

 

Tip #1: Create a Budget

Preparation is essential. Although most internship abroad programs are here to assist you ahead of time, anything can happen; flights can cancel at the last minute, transfers can be missed, and your luggage can disappear. These are things that we don’t necessarily have control over but can always prepare for.

You should save more than what you think is enough.

Wherever you create your budget spreadsheet (Google Docs or Excel are both a good start), your budget should include the basic expenses.

 

Program Fees

Adelante’s program costs vary depending on which city you want to travel to and how long you want to stay in your program. Check out our Pricing page for more information on this.

Your housing expenses are included in your program, whether you choose to stay in a shared apartment or with a homestay family. In some programs, your meals and laundry are also included in the program. Contact us if you have any questions about specific programs and what they have to offer.

 

Airfare/Transportation

Your plane ticket will probably be one of your biggest expenses for your program, but Adelante’s team is here to help you find inexpensive flights. Our social media intern searches for price drop alerts with different airlines and sends the information to our team so that we can let our candidates know. There are several websites, such as SkyScanner or JustFly, that help you search for the lowest costs possible. Airport pickup is included in your program fees, so you don’t have to worry about calling a taxi to take you to your housing.

#YoureWelcome

In major cities such as Madrid and Barcelona, buses and trains are one of the best ways to commute and travel to different areas nearby. This, of course, will cost extra, and so it’s wise to determine (once you know your housing) the best ways to your internship and to calculate a good monthly budget. This can also include extra trips that you know you’ll be taking on your free time while abroad.

 

Pre-departure Expenses

Visa(s), passport, health and travel insurance are some extra expenses to consider. You may need to do your research on these items, but Adelante has some free resources to help you begin. It’s very wise to do this as soon as possible to save some money and not have to deal with “rush fees.”

Please note that Adelante does not assist with Visas; however, candidates spending less than three months abroad do not need a Visa. Our team is also happy to answer any questions that we can on rules with Visas abroad.

 

Food

Alas, the food. For most of Adelante’s programs, it’ll be up to you to do your cooking and grocery shopping. #Adulting much?

Before your program, Adelante sends candidates a pre-departure orientation packet that will include some tips on finding food nearby and how much to expect to spend while abroad. Lonely Planet also has good resources on what to expect to spend in your city of choice.

Even if your program offers a couple of meals in your fees, you will still want to save some extra money in case you decide to go out with your new friends abroad or treat yourself to local pastries (because why wouldn’t you?).

 

Personal Expenses

You *do* plan to have fun while abroad, right? Then you’ll need to save some money for that as well. Some excursions are included in your program fees, and your program director can also help you with finding some of the best deals on trips to other fun spots near your city!

You’ll also want to save some money for souvenirs and presents for family, and you’ll want to prepare for some indulgences while you’re there.

#TreatYoSelf

 

Tip #2: Outline a Savings Plan

Once you’ve set up your ideal (and realistic) budget, you want to create a savings plan to ensure that you have the money. The total price of your trip can feel nerve-wracking, but by breaking your savings plan down by weeks instead of months, you can determine what you’ll need to save.

This may mean saving 20% percent of every paycheck or making yourself deposit $200 into your savings account each week. Stay consistent with your plan and ask friends or family to help ensure that you’re adding enough money to your savings.

There are also several apps and online programs available to help you automatically put money into your savings so that you don’t have to keep reminding yourself.

 

Tip #3: Minimize Your Expenses

Let’s face it. Most of us in college do not spend money as wisely as we should. The average person between the ages of 18 and 24 spend $400 a month on fast food, takeout, and dining. CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT?

Think about how many times you buy new shoes or clothes (or where you get them), or how many times you eat out with friends. Video games are also a major spending issue (unless you’re a famous YouTuber making fast cash off playing them).

If you’re serious about saving money and going abroad, perhaps now is a good time to find out where your current cash flow is going. Start shopping thrifty, track all of your expenses, and keep a weekly budget to ensure that you are saving as much as possible for your trip.

You won’t only save the money that you need, but you’ll learn great spending habits as well. Look online for apps that track your expenses from your credit cards and banks (such as Mint); that’ll help you start looking at your current habits.

Ways to Minimize Expenses:

  • Cook food at home instead of eating out
  • Check out student events that offer free food
  • Go to Happy Hour if you want to eat out with friends
  • Shop at thrift stores or clothes swap
  • Use websites like Meetup to find free things to do

Or you know… keep something like this around your house.

 

Stay tuned for Part II, where we show you how to make some extra cash toward your program!

Interested in learning more about our internships abroad? Click HERE for more info.

The 6 Best Internships for College Students - Adelante Abroad

The 6 Best Internships for College Students

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The 6 Best Internships for College Students - Adelante Abroad

There are many reasons to participate in an internship and even more reasons to engage in an international internship, before, during or after college. Whether it’s gaining relevant work experience to add value to your resume or learning a new language (or even just getting out of your parents’ house for a few months!), finding an internship abroad has proven to provide extensive benefits.

We explained which majors absolutely NEED internship experience (read that article here). But which program do you choose? If you’re not in one of the majors that require an internship abroad, there are still programs that can help compliment your career path.

 

Medical and Healthcare Internships

There is a high demand for doctors, nurses and medical specialists on a global scale. Several programs are now being offered for medical internships all around the world, with various backgrounds.

Adelante Abroad candidates have varied in medical internship placements ranging from busy hospitals in the middle of Madrid to small village clinics in South America. Options for medical and healthcare internships are available in many fields as well, from pediatrics and surgery to pharmaceuticals and gynecology. The options are endless, and you’ll be able to make a difference in any that you choose.

 

Internships in Architecture and Design

Architecture is not just for skyscrapers. Think of all of the ancient foundations throughout the world. Whether it’s the study of gargoyles, iconic steps, or grand cathedrals, there is plenty to observe and learn outside of the classroom (and your own country).

Not interested in building the next major monument? Adelante Abroad offers programs for Interior Design candidates as well, where you can work with global design teams giving character to buildings both inside and out.

 

Internships in Psychology

With the increase of anxiety, depression, and mental illnesses around the world, there is a high demand for psychology and therapy.

Engaging in an internship abroad in psychology gives you the experience of communicating in new cultures, as well as studying different methods that other countries are using to help their patients. Similar to a medical internship, you have the option of working in a therapy clinic or producing research needed for psychologists to determine new and better treatment for patients.

 

Tourism and Hospitality Internships

Tourism and hospitality interns are placed in some of the hottest destinations around the world. You can intern abroad at a boutique hotel, European chain, or a larger golf or tennis centered hotel.

Adelante candidates gain experience in a variety of departments, from guest services to catering, room service, administration or event planning. You can even work with a travel or tourism agency and show off your Spanish language skills with vacationers!

 

Law Internships

Law internships are not limited to just business law and civil law; work assignments vary from country to country. You can work with a small legal firm or represent a larger company, depending on your career goals.

One of our candidates in Ecuador just began a law internship with a non-profit to help support human rights in Quito (read about his story here). There are several ways to build your resume prior to going to law school while still making a large impact in the community. In other words, you’re not just sitting behind a desk with these internships.

 

Internships in International Business

International Business is a bit broad, but that’s the magic of it! Students who take on an internship in International Business and International Relations have the chance to learn more about other countries and how they all work together.

Sectors range from globalization to sustainability, with employment opportunities in these fields growing exponentially every year. These internships help provide expertise in bringing diverse cultures together with effective communication. Plus, you may end up making international friends in high places!

 

Still not sure which Internship Field is right for you? We offer internships in a wide range of fields, and we can help create a customized program just for you! Click here to learn more about our different programs.

 

4 Tips to Become Fluent in Your Spanish Internship - Adelante Abroad

4 Tips to Become Fluent in Your Spanish Internship Abroad

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4 Tips to Become Fluent in Your Spanish Internship - Adelante Abroad

When preparing candidates for upcoming internships abroad, Adelante generally recommends tips such as taking a Spanish class in college, practicing on language apps such as Duolingo, and even hiring a tutor to talk 1-on-1 with students. If you’re still unsure how learning Spanish can benefit your life, check out this article from our friends at TakeLessons.
However, nothing will prepare you for learning a new language than immersing yourself in a Spanish speaking culture. Not only will you master your fluency faster, but you will also learn the culture. What better way to become fluent in Spanish than to spend a few months in Spain or South America?
Here are 4 tips to help you become fluent in Spanish during your abroad program:

1. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes

The biggest thing that is in the way of you becoming fluent in Spanish is the fear that you will make a mistake. Maybe you’re worried that you’ll be laughed at, or perhaps you’re worried that you’ll be misunderstood and upset someone.
Strike up a conversation with a stranger – you’ll get a sense of “street smarts” needed to maneuver around the city, and you may even make some friends along the way.
The truth is that you will never become fluent without being willing to make grammar and vocabulary mistakes, and that’s ok! Don’t worry about upsetting a local because your Spanish is still improving. In fact, locals will be impressed by the fact that you are making an effort to learn Spanish.
Learn to laugh at your mistakes too. Something you say may sound funny to a local, but often times it’s not meant to be mean. Instead, laugh with them! It may help break the ice in a conversation!

 

2. Make Friends (And Familia)

What better way to practice Spanish than to speak it with your new friends abroad? There are plenty of opportunities to speak Spanish, but the trick is to find a group of people who are there to help you along the way.
At Adelante Abroad’s programs, many candidates live with a homestay family or a shared apartment with other international students. This has been proven as a successful way to practice Spanish on a daily basis as well as a great way to make lifelong friends (and family) while abroad.
If you’re new to the city and want to kick it up a notch, make a goal to speak Spanish wherever you are. (Repeat Tip #1 with talking to strangers and making friends)

 

3. Take Plenty of Notes

While many Spanish language books have the literal translation for words you need in the city, there are many slang terms and phrases only local to your international city or neighborhood. Bring a small notebook with you while out of your house and don’t be afraid to take notes about words or phrases that are still new to you.
By the end of your program, you’ll have your own personal dictionary and more insight on how multicultural your Spanish-speaking city truly is!

 

4. Explore

Who else agrees that the best way to learn another language is by eating local grub? Look for excursions that include cooking classes and opportunities to cook with local foods. Get to know local shops and markets to learn how to get good deals on produce and treats!
Aside from eating local food and learning where it comes from, do some extra exploring and get lost (literally). Explore a totally different town, take the wrong train, or even just make a plan to try something new that day. You’ll learn how to adapt to brand new environments and survive on your own. Plus, you might have an exciting story to tell friends and family back home!

Learning Spanish doesn’t have to be daunting or difficult. Throw yourself out there and face yours fears! Don’t worry too much though, Adelante Abroad programs include two to three weeks of intensive Spanish language classes to help you adjust during the beginning of your journey.

 
Ready to take one of our Spanish-language programs? We have plenty of internship opportunities in Spain (Madrid, Barcelona and Seville), Chile, Mexico, Ecuador, and Uruguay. Apply now and take advantage of some of THE most affordable programs out there!

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What Majors NEED to Consider an Internship Abroad?

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Internships. Every one of your friends, family, professors and advisors mention is at least once when conversing about college and job prospects. It feels like every club you join or career workshop that you show up to says the same thing: You need to take an internship if you want to get a good job right out of college.

Even if it’s not required for your major, there’s no doubt that it creates exponential value on your resume. While less local internships are becoming available close to home, internships abroad are booming with the increase of resources and globalization throughout the world.

Internships abroad not only provide you with the experience that employers want to see on your resume, but it also gives you the opportunity to travel and immerse yourself in new cultures. Plus, you’ll come home almost fluent in a new language (another awesome addition to your resume).

While every major can benefit from taking an internship abroad, here are 4 majors who absolutely NEED it to get their foot out the door in their career:

 

Business

mulholland drive at night

It’s no longer just bookkeeping and Sales for today’s business person. With the increase in technology, globalization, and eCommerce, there has been a major need for international business models and communication throughout all global markets.

By interning abroad in Business, you are not only showing your future employer that you understand the basics (i.e. financial analytics, marketing, etc.), but you are also able to interact with different cultures and overseas markets.

Other Majors that Can Benefit from an Internship Abroad:

  • Accounting & Auditing
  • Finance
  • Banking
  • Business Administration/Management
  • Consulting
  • Agricultural Business
  • Communications
  • International Trade

More Info: Business Internships Abroad

 

Conservation

Ecology Summer Study Abroad in Scotland

There are plenty of private companies, research institutions, and even non-profits who are happy to bring in interns to assist them in Conservation. The opportunities are endless in this sector due to the need for sustainability as well as protecting the environment.

This is a great program that helps Biology and similar majors get their feet wet and work alongside professionals in their field. Plus, you’re helping the environment (a major plus on all levels).

There is an increasing need for international interns to assist programs in Mexico, Uruguay and even places such as rural Scotland (no Spanish required for this Adelante program).

Other Majors that Can Benefit from an Internship Abroad:

  • Biology
  • Marine Science
  • Ecology
  • Environmental Science
  • Horticulture
  • Environmental Engineering
  • Geosciences
  • Forestry
  • Wildlife Sciences

More Info: Environmental, Horticulture & Ecology Internships Abroad

 

Political Science

Political Science Internships - Adelante AbroadThe United States isn’t the only country with a government system (I’m sure that you already knew that though). Every country has their own rules and regulations within a justice system, and many of their methods enforced are a strong part of their culture.

Political science majors should not only understand their local government policies but also understand how it works together with international agreements, alliances, etc. And, just like our home country, you get to learn how different communities hold different opinions on various topics, such as women’s rights, LGBTQ, etc.

Students in this sector not only become familiar with foreign policies but also work toward increasing tolerance and decreasing discrimination issues in other countries. It shows future employers that you successfully held an internship AND made an impact within that community.

Other Majors that Can Benefit from an Internship Abroad:

  • International Relations
  • Human Rights
  • Criminal Justice
  • Social Work
  • LGBTQ Rights
  • Women’s Rights

More Info: Law Internships Abroad and Non-profits Internships Abroad

 

Healthcare

Lucy T. Medical Internship

Medical school alone is a rigorous process, and sometimes grades just aren’t enough. You must diversify and find a way to make your resume stand out against the crowd in this sector more than any other sector!

Medical internships are available in many foreign countries, and healthcare students are able to specialize in many programs abroad. By the end of your program, you might decide that being a surgeon wasn’t your calling and learn that you enjoy working with pediatricians, for example. You might even be interested in Equine Veterinary care!

Healthcare internships abroad can allow students to work in different environments, from a busy emergency room in the center of Madrid to a remote village in Oaxaca, Mexico. Here is another opportunity to learn the trade and make an impact.

Other Majors that Can Benefit from an Internship Abroad:

  • Public Health
  • Medicine
  • Nursing
  • Psychology
  • Physical Therapy
  • Kinesiology
  • Nutrition Science
  • Pharmacy
  • Veterinary / Equine Veterinary

More Info: Medical Internships Abroad, Pharmacy Internships Abroad and Psychology Internships Abroad

 

Looking to boost your resume? Want to travel, make an impact, and gain work experience? We currently have openings for our July internship programs for all of the above majors! Apply now to save your spot before they fill up!

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Top Internship Fields in Ecuador

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For those who don’t know, Adelante recently opened a new program site in Quito and Ambato, Ecuador. We’re very excited to not only open a new site but to also provide unique internships in some of the top industries in South America.

Internships in Ecuador are year-round, with program start dates on the first Monday of every month. Housing, meals and two weeks of intensive Spanish language courses are included in program costs as well as some fun excursions during the first two weeks of your program.

We are offering several internship fields for this program, but here are the top five sectors that we picked out as the most unique.

Top Internship Fields in Ecuador

  1. Human Rights Internships

Work with one of our well-established partner institutions that works to defend human rights and women’s rights in the capital of Ecuador. These internships help ensure that the community is providing rightful funds and economic rights while banishing discrimination.

This program is perfect for law students, psychology majors or counselors, but it can be open to anyone interested in assisting local organizations defend human rights.

 

  1. Veterinary Internships

There are several unique veterinary programs available to our candidates interested in working with animals. These are not just for your average domestic pets – local clinics in Quito can expect to see up to 60 animals (domestic and stray) every day.

But don’t let that scare you! Vet interns will be educated and receive hands-on instruction during their program, something not possible in the United States for undergrads. You’ll be heading home with plenty of experience that you can bring to the table with your degree.

Adelante Abroad also has an Equine Veterinary internship available for those who want to work with horses. The program is very similar to our program in Scotland, with lots of travelling to farms and stables and tasks varying between check-ups, surgeries and even emergency operations.

 

  1. Marketing Internships

For this internship program, candidates get to work with a successful marketing research firm in Quito, Ecuador’s capital. Big clients include Toyota, Kraft, Bayer and several multinational banks.

This program is perfect for anyone interested in International Business, Marketing, and even IT/Technology. Interns will work with market analysis, consumer and market demographics, and brand strategy. As Ecuador’s infrastructure for total internet access grows, so will more opportunities in social media as well.

This is a perfect mix of traditional marketing and digital marketing for the right candidate.

 

  1. Medical Internships

Our medical internships in Ecuador are unique because they are centered in a Municipal Hospital in the city of Ambato. This hospital has several openings for various majors, including Medicine, Dermatology, Physical Therapy, and even Psychology.

Unlike the state-run hospital in Quito, we want our interns to join the hospital in Ambato in order to be placed in a less chaotic and more organized environment for them. This gives plenty of opportunities for the doctors, nurses and lab techs to give hands on shadowing!

 

  1. Work with Street Children

Like our human rights and medical internships, this program is open to candidates with backgrounds in Social Work, Psychology, Teaching English, and Child Development. Successful interns will be self-starters when working with underserved kids in Quito.

Although the neighborhood is a bit rough, the Center for interns to work is spacious, clean and organized. Candidates assist with teaching English, helping children with their homework, and helping the faculty create new activities for the kids on their free time.

 

Don’t see a sector that you’re searching for? We offer several more unique programs in Ecuador as well as several other locations in South America and Spain.

Apply now for Summer internships! Deadline for the June start dates are now extended through April 15th, and candidates looking for July or August start dates still have plenty of available opportunities before Fall! 

Where Are They Now - Medical Internship - Adelante Abroad

Letter from 2001 EMT Internships Abroad

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Where Are They Now - Medical Internship - Adelante Abroad

We received an email last week from a past candidate who joined our EMT internship program back in 2001. It’s always a pleasure to hear from our alumni and learn how taking an internship with Adelante has impacted a candidate’s career.

If you were a past candidate and wish to share your experience after your Adelante internship, please feel free to contact us and share your story!

Dear Adelante,

I decided to do a random internet search on Adelante to see how far the company has come since I participated in my Adelante internship ~16 years ago.  After my graduation from Duke University in 2001 with a degree in History and Spanish, Adelante offered me the opportunity to pursue an internship as an EMT in Spain.  This seemed like a perfect fit for me as I was applying to medical schools upon graduation.  I not only got to spend time with the EMS service in Spain, I also was able to take the basic EMS course during my internship; I even passed the course while some of my Spanish classmates weren’t as successful as I.

In addition to the EMT internship, I signed on to teach English to Spanish adults while in Spain.  In many ways, I was able to do 2 internships during my time in Spain.  A few other Americans (6 of us in total) participated in a variety of internships through Adelante while I was in Spain.  I have stayed in close touch with Brian S. who also did the EMT internship.  As Americans, we shared one common, unique experience back then – we were in Spain on September 11, 2001.  Kimberly came to visit us not long after 9/11 to check on us while were there.

I have had many experiences since my internship with Adelante.  I completed medical school at UNC-Chapel Hill, completed residency at the University of Michigan, and completed fellowship training in Chicago.  I’m married, and my wife and I have a 1 year old little girl.  I’m in private practice in NC as an allergy specialist.  I’m also currently about half way through completion of an MBA degree through UNC-CH.  (Of note, Brian S. completed dental school at College of Dental Medicine-Arizona and after a a few years in practice as a dentist has actually gone back to school to complete an MD degree at Chicago Medical School.)

The reason I’m sending this email is not actually to describe my accomplishments over the past 16 years.  Rather, I thought I’d let you know that since my internship with Adelante, I have competed countless interviews in my career.  And while I feel that my CV could take an interviewer in any number of directions, almost every interviewer has asked me, “I see you interned as an EMT in Spain; tell me about that.”  For whatever reason, It has been a talking point that has saved me on so many levels throughout my career.  Brian and I have talked about this over the years, and he has expressed the same experience in interviews.

Just wanted to say thanks!

Sincerely,

Colin F., MD

 

Interested in learning more about our internship programs? We’re still accepting Summer internships abroad for 2017, and we offer programs year-round – our candidates can intern from 1 to 12 months duration in various countries of choice.

Visit Internships Abroad

If you were a past candidate and wish to share your experience after your Adelante internship, please feel free to contact us and share your story!

3 Ways an Internship Abroad Can Boost Your Resume - Adelante Abroad

3 Ways an Internship Abroad Can Help Boost Your Resume

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pharmacy-internships-adelante-abroad

Adelante Abroad has been providing guaranteed internship abroad placements for candidates since 1999. With the increase in college students trying to start their career right after graduation, there’s much more competition for that dream job you’ve been thinking about since you were a Sophomore (or even earlier). 

In a 2014 article in the Huffington Post, statistics showed that students who take on internships have a significantly higher chance of getting a full-time job right out of college. That was regardless of college GPA. Sort of puts a damper on the work a student had to put in to get that magna cum laude.

The truth is that many of Adelante’s candidates take on internships just for that reason. They want to show potential employers that they have international work experience, master a new culture (and often times a new language), and travel out of the country. But what makes an international internship stand out from others?

Here are three ways that an internship abroad can help boost your resume, followed by tips on how to present it at your next interview:

Cultural Fluency and Teamwork Skills

What is cultural fluency? Cultural fluency is the familiarity and relationship with other cultures outside of your own. It gives candidates a competitive advantage over other people applying for the same position, especially if the position or business requires communication across different countries and cultures.

Being immersed in a new culture through an international internship will help people gain cultural fluency. It also shows employers that you are capable of adapting and working within a multinational project or company. An employee with cultural fluency is able to work with other team members with different backgrounds and nationalization (both within and outside of the United States). With an increase in globalization and international businesses, this is a trait that is not just wanted but now expected from employers.

Interview Tip:

Talk about a time when you worked together with one of your coworkers in your international internship. Emphasize what you learned from it and how you have continued to use your teamwork skills since returning back home.

Equine Study In Scotland | Adelante Abroad

Independence and Confidence

Most employers, when seeing international internship experience on a candidate’s resume, will perceive the candidate as more confident and able to work independently. Confidence and independence shows employers that you are able to solve problems on your own, especially in a fast-paced environment.

Anyone who has worked abroad understands the amount of independence and confidence needed to handle the culture shock and language barriers encountered during the first few weeks. It also teaches you how to adapt to new environments quickly and with confidence.

Let’s face it, if you can find your way around Barcelona tourist spots in the summer, then you can find the confidence to handle any fast-paced environment.

Interview Tip:

Provide examples or stories of times when you had to solve something quickly on your own and what it taught you. Bonus points if you had to do it with a barrier of some sort (such as not being fluent in a language at first).

Medical Internship in Barcelona | Adelante Abroad

Newly Developed Skills and a Stronger Resume

When a candidate decides to take on an intern abroad, they become exposed to more practices and paradigms that they would not have experienced while working locally. With these new practices, candidates are much more likely to have learned new skill sets, such as a foreign language or a new method of efficiency.

While not all people have the opportunity to intern abroad, having international experience on your resume helps your credentials stand out more to employers. With more students leaving college with similar degrees (business, communications, etc.), getting a job is becoming more competitive and requires a little extra “push” for candidates nowadays.

Interview Tip:

Let your future employer know what skills you learned while abroad and how it has benefited you for future jobs. Explain what you did to ensure that you had mastered that skill for the company (practicing a new language, joining a training program, etc.). If any of your new skills required a certificate, be sure to include that in your resume or portfolio for them to see.

Adelante Abroad offers international internships throughout the year in Spain (Madrid, Barcelona, Seville), Ecuador, Chile, Mexico, Uruguay, and Scotland (Summer only). Free housing, intensive language classes, academic credit, and much more are included in your program. Apply now to save your spot!

Top Spring Internships - Adelante Abroad

Top Spring Internships Abroad 2017

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Top Spring Internships - Adelante Abroad

It’s not too late to apply for a Spring internship abroad and even stay through the Summer months! The application for an internship beginning April 1st is actually February 15th, so applicants still have a chance to get a head start going abroad!

Spring in general is the best time to be abroad for an internship program for a plethora of reasons; it’s technically summer in South America, Q2 (April, May, June) is beginning for those publicly traded European companies, the crowds are far more comfortable compared to the summer months, etc. Here’s a list of some of the top programs that our candidates have been asking us about. While some of our programs have remained at the top since 2016, we have added new site locations and programs this year for new candidates and interns.

1. Event Planning Internships Abroad  (Ecuador, Spain, Uruguay)

Event planning in the spring for a number of reasons. Not only are companies gearing up for the influx of summer events but spring is a prime time for events in their own right. For example, May kicks off wedding season in Spain so the prior months will be all about getting ready, interns will definitely be needed!

Event Planning Internships Abroad

 

2. Winery Internships Abroad (Chile)

Chile is somewhat thought of as the California of South America due to the diverse climate zones in the country. This temperate climate has lent itself to Chile becoming more prominent in the wine industry in recent years. Spring time is obviously one of the most ideal times to be among the vineyards and learning the art of fine wine making.

Winery Internships Abroad

 

3. Ecology, Conservation and Horticulture Internships Abroad (Chile, Mexico, Spain, Uruguay)

In this field, there are a slew of opportunities depending on what your specific interests are. Low energy consumption in Barcelona, solar power in Chile, wind power in Madrid, and soil conservation and water management in Mexico are among the options. It goes without saying spring is perhaps the best time of year to intern in a field rooted in the environment.

Ecology Internships Abroad

 

4. Sports Internships Abroad (Barcelona and Madrid, Spain)

For a handful of sports, the season really starts to heat up in the spring time as teams are making their push for the playoffs. The same is true in Europe, particularly in Spain. Spring time is when things get interesting in the top professional basketball and soccer leagues in Spain; Liga ACB (Liga Endesa) and LFP (Liga de Futbol Professional). Internships can be for the teams themselves or in the realm of sports marketing and community relations.

Sports Internships Abroad

 

5. Fashion Internships Abroad (Spain, Uruguay)

Spring in the fashion forward cities of Barcelona and Madrid. You have opportunities to do work in design houses and with independent fashion designers. In Montevideo, Uruguay you’ll have the opportunity to intern in a high-end retail store based out of Buenos Aires with stores in Madrid, Miami as well. This is meant for an individual looking to own their own store one day and is heavy on the business/retail side of fashion.

Fashion Internships Abroad

 

6. Psychology & Social Work Internships Abroad (Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, Spain, Uruguay)

There are many opportunities for interns in Psychology and Social Work. This is a particularly good program to do in the spring mainly due to the fact that most mental health professionals in Spain go on lengthy vacations in the summer. Spring is the best way to make the most of your intern experience!

Psychology Internships Abroad
Social Work Internships Abroad

 

7. Pharmacy Internships Abroad (Spain)

Pharmacy is an extremely popular internship placement, particularly in the summer time. Intern in pharmacy during the spring time to beat the crowds and ensure your placement! Pharmacy internships abroad are particularly valuable to do as candidates will dispense medicine and assist doctors on staff among other key responsibilities.

Pharmacy Internships Abroad

 

8. Equine Veterinary Internships Abroad (Ecuador)

This is a brand new program in our new Ecuador site. Based on Quito, you will work with a local equine veterinarian who works with horse owners all around the city and surrounding area. While the majority of work is through scheduled vet services, about 20% can include emergency procedures.

We also provide internships in animal clinics with a lead Veterinary Surgeon in Quito, where candidates can assist with assisting stray dogs and homeless animals as well as domestic pets. The lead doctor at this clinic did his undergraduate work in Houston and speaks flawless English, so even candidates with a lower level of Spanish may be considered for this placement.

Veterinary Internships Abroad

Click here if you’re looking to apply for any of our featured Spring internships abroad!