Doing a remote internship alongside my studies at Essex

Kushal is a 2nd year Undergraduate student studying Business Administration at our Southend Campus. Kushal completed a remote internship with our partner provider, The Intern Group and tells us about the experience.

Can you tell us a little about your experience?

This past summer, I started on a transforming adventure as a Business Outreach Intern for 'i Spark Change.' It was an experience that not only broadened my horizons but also allowed me an opportunity to support a cause close to my heart. I was based in India for the better part of the internship and then in the UK but had the opportunity to work as the ‘Business Outreach Intern’ with ISC which is based in Texas, United States. I reached out to countless companies, from small startups to established corporations, and shared the inspiring stories of 'i Spark Change.' Many businesses were eager to support our mission, and it was heartening to see the genuine concern for making the world a better place.

i Spark Change is not your typical organisation; it is a ray of hope in a world in need of change for the better. Their straightforward but effective purpose is to motivate people and organisations to affect positive change in the society. The organisation accomplishes this by offering tools, encouragement, and direction to those who want to change the world in their areas of influence. This dedication to change is what brought me to "ISC" and kept me motivated throughout my internship. This international exposure, despite the physical distance, allowed me to gain a unique perspective on global business practices and culture.

Why did you choose this experience?

I chose this experience for several reasons. Firstly, I wanted to gain international work experience without the logistical challenges of relocating. The Intern Group offered a remote internship that allowed me to work with a company in a different country, providing the international exposure I was seeking. Additionally, one of the most rewarding aspects of my internship was the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with businesses that shared the vision of the organization which resonated deeply with me.

What were some of the best moments from the experience?

There were several unforgettable moments during my remote internship. A highlight was collaborating with international colleagues and learning about different work cultures. My internship organisation also encouraged cross-cultural interactions, which made for a more meaningful experience. I particularly enjoyed the virtual team-building events that allowed me to connect with interns from across the world. Attending online workshops and webinars also delivered me with insightful knowledge and networking opportunities.

What would your advice be to someone else thinking of completing a remote internship abroad?

If you're considering completing a remote internship abroad, I would advise you to:

• Be proactive: Take the initiative to ask questions, seek feedback, and engage with your colleagues regularly.
• Embrace cultural differences: Learn about the work culture and customs of the host country. This will help you adapt and communicate effectively.
• Manage your time: Balancing work across different time zones can be a challenge. Create a well-organized schedule to ensure productivity.
• Network: Connect with your peers, supervisors, and professionals in your field. Building a global network is one of the valuable outcomes of remote international internships.

Would you recommend The Intern Group as a programme provider?

Yes, I would recommend The Intern Group as a remote internship program provider. They provided a smooth and enriching experience by connecting me with an appropriate host company. Their dedication to fostering cultural interaction and professional development is commendable.

What did you learn from the experience that will impact you in the future?

My summer as a Business Outreach Intern at 'i Spark Change' was transformative. I was not only able to contribute to a purpose that I am truly passionate to, but I also learnt a lot about business and social responsibility. 'i Spark Change' reminded me that we all have the power to make a difference, and organizations like this give us the tools and chances to do so on a global scale. This experience has left an indelible mark on me. I learned how to adapt to a diverse and multinational work environment while also refining my cross-cultural communication skills.

As I go on, I will keep with me the memories of the inspiring companies I worked with, the incredible projects we completed, and the unwavering optimism that we can make the world a better place by working together. It expanded my knowledge of global business practices and the significance of cultural awareness. These abilities will surely help me in my future profession, particularly when I work in a global or multicultural environment. Furthermore, the contacts I gained during my internship will continue to be a useful resource for my personal and professional development.

Inspired by Kushal’s story? Find out more about Study Abroad opportunities