An internship and so much more! Cynthia, France

A story by Cynthia

Country of origine France

Country of destination UK

During my 4th year at University in France, a mandatory 6 month internship had to be completed in order to pass the first year of my Masters degree in International Business.

After searching for a couple of months, I got a Skype interview and ended up being selected to go and do an internship in the UK, more precisely in the wonderful city of Bath. I could not have been more pleased!

I decided to accept, for several reasons. The main one was because I really wanted to improve my English and to experience the British culture. The second one was for the position itself. I knew it would require me to develop personal and professional skills, and I knew I’d have responsibilities and be completely involved in the decision process.

From March to the end of August 2014, I have lived and worked in Bath. I unfortunately had to go back home after that, because I still had one year to complete in France in order to get my Masters Degree. This is the only reason why I went back. If I had finished my degree, I would have seriously considered staying more permanently.

This mobility brought me so many things that it is hard to know where to begin.

Personally, I got to grow as an individual. I met many different people, from different nationalities and backgrounds. It has been very enriching and I have made great friends that I know I’ll be in touch with for the rest of my life.

I also got to travel around England and Ireland: Bath, Bristol, London, Cardiff, Cornwall (South West coast of England), Liverpool, Brighton, Belfast, Dublin and many more! England has got many beautiful places to see.

Professionally, I got to see various aspects of what a small business is. I have been involved in the Business to Business side by going to networking events, breakfasts, and business meetings. I also have done some recruitment of international students from all over Europe. I have had a say in many different occasion and I have felt like my opinion was valued as much as anyone else’s.

I am just so grateful to have been given this opportunity and would do it all over again if I would be given the chance. I also would encourage anyone to go abroad, whether it is to work or study. In life, you need to take chances and see where it leads you. “Travels broadens the mind” which I find to be extremely accurate. And remember, you own the keys to make the experience as great as possible.

So, jump in with both feet!