An internship in paradise

Written by Kristina Stepanenko

If you are thinking to make an internship in one of the tropical and beach vacation destinations like Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic), Miami (USA), Dubai (UAE) etc., this article can give you some tips on how to organize your adventure of a lifetime. 

                   
Summer internship in Miami, European student’s experience.

First thing that comes to people's mind when they think about Miami is that it is a US city with beaches, palms and a warm ocean and all that's true but not everyone knows the details, especially if you are going to visit it for the first time.

Here are some features of the southern state in the USA, that is so different from Europe and the rest of the world:

          1.The language. They say you don’t even need English to live in Miami, let’s see if it’s true.

I was surprised already at the airport when I heard the majority of people, including the airport stuff members, speaking… Spanish(!!). Same thing happened outside of the airport, everywhere you go you hear more Spanish then English which was really unexpectedly. But don’t worry if you speak only English, you will be understood everywhere.

     
      2. Internet. After picking-up your luggage the next step is to get to the city and probably you would like to call an Uber or Lift through the app on your phone but there is no free Wi-Fi at the airport so be prepared to pay for it or just take a taxi to the city and get your sim-card over there.

 
      3.Transportation situation. The best option to get around the city is to download Uber and Lift apps and to compare prices on each of them. Usually Lift is cheaper but if you want to save even more, there is also a free trolley service in Miami Beach and in Downtown.

 
      4.The weather. Going to this tropical state you should be prepared for the hot weather which is very unstable during the day. While resting on the beach without one single cloud in the sky, you can find yourself under a showering rain within 30 minutes. So carry an umbrella with you each time you go outside.😉

       
         5.Learning about the company. If you are going to start an internship in the USA you need to know about the usual way of work and interaction at your host organization as well as the standards and values of the company, hosting you, which normally you can consult on company’s web site or on their social media. This is important because you want to do your best to be able to incorporate and learn as fast as possible.

      
      6. The US work place. Every workplace is different, but what to expect upon your arrival? While most of the company’s environments are relaxed and informal, employers and their employees are expected to be professional. With a positive outlook and willingness to be a part of a team, your time at work can be rich and rewarding. Your attitude can help you look forward to go to work every day, and help you build friendships with co-workers.

     
      7.Accommodation. If your host organization doesn’t provide you with a place to stay during your program, you need to start searching for it as early as possible. Keep in mind that rent in Miami is expensive, especially if you are staying for a short time (up to 6 moths).

      
      8. Lifestyle. The life in Miami is very relaxed and easy going, which is why people are open and friendly. Also, there are a lot of tourists for whom locals designed all types of entertainment from city tours, jet sky to the widest selection of bars, restaurants and clubs, which is why one will never get bored in that city.

So, take your swim suite and get ready to enjoy your time in Miami or similar destinations! As for me, the next destination will be Santo Domingo in Dominican Republic with it’s amazing culture, food, extensive beaches and much more to enjoy and explore!