How to Apply Internship in Europe

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An internship is a perfect start if you want to build your career path, since you will definitely learn something for your working experience, being in contract with an institution, and will earn a reference and certificate in the end. In some cases, you might also win the heart of your Chef or Supervisor and be offered a contract to work there after you graduate.
And if you want to work in Europe later on or want to taste the European working culture, then you should consider applying for an internship here. These are my version of some steps on how to apply for an internship in Europe:

1. Enrolled as a student
This is the most important step for an internship. True, that there are a lot of internships all across Europe. But, they are mostly only for students. The companies know how important it is for the students to do an internship as a first step to the professional world. And it is a benefit for them as well because when you do an internship, you are basically working. You go with the company’s rules and deliver the tasks. But, on the other hand, you wouldn’t get a handful payment like the other employees. 

2. Prepare your budget
You do want to work as an intern, so why do you still need to prepare your budget? Well, it is related to the previous points, where the interns usually don’t get paid or paid low. It is really good if you can find a paid internship. Maybe you would get compensation, such as lunch or place to stay. But, it won’t be enough to survive later on in Europe during the internship, one needs a supply. And the best time to do it is since you are on your hunting process. Decide the country and take a note on their living cost.

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3. Stay in your field
The linear your major in the university with your internship sector, the better it is. Yes, you can do a short internship in a hostel in Italy as a helper or in a theater in Austria for giving the flyer and promotion. But if your goal is bigger than just having fun, it is important to apply for an internship in your field study, e.g. apply for the PR position for a fashion group in Paris if you are studying communication. Therefore, you already learn at least one or two things related to your major. 

4. Apply for an internship in summer
Summer is the prime time in Europe for internships. At this time, Universities in Europe are having the summer break and a lot of companies in Europe have also been posting their vacancy with the starting date at this particular season. Do apply for an internship that lasts at least three months long, since this is the working experience that you can later put into your CV and worth it to be taken into considerations for the HR later on for your real working world. 

5. Have a sufficient knowledge for the required language
When you are not coming from an English speaking country, it is a must to be able to communicate effortlessly in English in writing as well as speaking for your internship in Europe. However if you want to apply for an  internship in, let’s say France or Spain, then it will be a big plus point when you are able to communicate in French or Spanish, instead only in English.

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I’m Helen,

originally from Indonesia and have been living abroad; Poland, Spain, Belgium, and Germany, for more than five years. Being a part-time nomad has been a part of me and currently I am enthusiastic to explore the world, experience its uniqueness, and share it with you :)

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