Many University of Iowa students are finding that an internship abroad offers something a classroom can’t. By combining career experience with cultural immersion, international internships give students an edge in an increasingly competitive job market. At two recent events hosted by International Programs and the Pomerantz Career Center, students and staff reflected on how to make the most of an internship abroad.
“Instead of sending out hundreds of résumés and hoping that you get one,” said Monica Ernberger, assistant director, internships for UI study abroad, “all you have to do is have a 2.5 GPA and my endorsement, and you get admitted.”
With placement guaranteed, Ernberger said students can turn their attention to building skills instead of searching for openings.
“It’s a shiny gold star for your résumé,” Ernberger said. “And it’s a chance to build references that can shape your career for years to come.”
UI student panelists shared how their internships helped clarify their goals and strengthen their confidence.
Psychology major Lucy Hernandez interned in Tokyo as a recruitment assistant.
“After that experience, I now know that I want to do HR,” Hernandez said. “I’m just glad I got to experience a whole different work culture.”
Psychology and social work major Emma Dake interned with Vienna’s English Theater youth program.
“I didn’t know what population I wanted to work with, but now I know I want to be a therapist for kids,” Dake said.
Communications and sport & recreation management major Elizabeth Froehlich interned in Vienna with AFBO, the governing body of American football in Austria.
“It helped me direct my goals toward what sport I might want to work in and confirmed my interest in communications and PR,” Froehlich said.
However, not every experience confirmed a career path, and Ernberger said that’s part of the value.
“It’s a way to find out if you are on the right path before you get too far down that road," Ernberger said. "There is still time to pivot in a new direction.”
For example, Braden Schmidt, a finance and risk management and insurance major, spent his internship in London promoting live music.
“It wasn’t directly related to my field, but it made me consider working abroad long-term,” Schmidt said. “I even got a reference letter from my boss in London.”
Paula Ross, assistant director, peer programs at the Pomerantz Career Center, urged students to prepare for their internship in advance.
“Set SMART goals—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound,” said Ross. “Research the company culture, prepare your elevator pitch, and be ready to contribute from day one.”
Ross reminded students that professionalism shows in everyday actions.
“Arrive on time, stay engaged, ask questions, and follow through,” Ross said. “Professionalism means being curious, clarifying expectations, and seeking feedback early and often.”
Students were reminded that their online presence travels with them.
“Everything you put online is fair game,” Ross cautioned. “Balance your content with both cultural and professional updates.”
For journalism and mass communication major Eddie Tepper, his online presence became an unexpected career tool. While interning in Barcelona writing blog articles, he used LinkedIn to share his work.
“Every time one got published, I’d post it on LinkedIn,” Tepper said. “That led to more networking—it’s always a topic of conversation during interviews or coffee chats.”
“You never know when the person you’re in conversation with could lead to a future job opportunity,” Ernberger said. “Have your elevator pitch ready and use it for absolutely anybody and everybody.”
“Learn people’s names, personalize your interactions, and express gratitude,” Ross said. “A handwritten thank-you note or a thoughtful email can go a long way.”
Though most placements last only a few months, their influence often extends far beyond.
“Whether it goes the way you expect or not,” Ernberger said, “it’s a chance to define your career goals, build durable skills, and secure references that matter.”
“Everything is a learning experience,” Ross said. “Even if it wasn’t a perfect fit, you gained something valuable.”
International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement. IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.