A few years ago, I had already considered doing my internship abroad. However, I didn’t pursue it because I was too afraid to leave everything behind in the Netherlands. Until last year.
I had to start looking for an internship again, starting in February. The first thought that came to mind was, “I’m starting my final internship now, so I’ll be done with my studies in a few months, so an internship abroad isn’t going to happen.” I overthought things like, “What if I go abroad now? What will happen when I come back?” The idea of leaving my friends and family behind was also difficult for me.
Meanwhile, I started searching for a suitable internship in the Netherlands. I wasn’t exactly sure what I was looking for because HR is very broad. After seeing many companies, I wasn’t very enthusiastic. Until a classmate told me about an internship opportunity abroad. At that moment, something clicked, and I quickly approached my supervisor about the possibilities in Spain. One option was to find an internship through JongLeren.es. I had an intake with them soon after.
Intake
I have to admit that right after the intake interview, I felt like I had to do this. After a week, I gave JongLeren.es my consent to start looking for an internship for me.
Searching for an internship
Unfortunately, things didn’t go as well as I had hoped. JongLeren.es had contacted many companies, but unfortunately, there were many rejections or companies didn’t respond. Finding an internship in my field without speaking Spanish proved to be very difficult. I faced a tough decision because it was already December, and otherwise, I would have to continue searching in the Netherlands. Eventually, I got the opportunity to do my final internship at JongLeren.es itself, and I seized this opportunity with both hands. So, I had 1.5 months to prepare before going to Málaga.
Time to almost leave
In January, the realization slowly sank in that I’m really leaving in a month. January was a month filled with beautiful and difficult moments as I started to say goodbye to my friends and family.
Deep down, I knew I had to do this and that I would grow even more as a person.
Once I arrived in Málaga, it hit me that I would really be in Málaga for 5 months, and I was so proud of myself when I arrived at the apartment. I’ve only been here for a few days now and haven’t regretted it for a second.
I came here alone and quickly met many new and wonderful people. I’m grateful that this opportunity came my way.
