Intern Abroad in Italy

When people think of Italy, the most popular associations that spring to mind are fantastic food, chic fashion, a wealth of wine, and a rich history and culture that continues to impact the world today. However, Italy is also a great way to boost your career and make sure that your future is on track through a valuable internship. As an intern abroad destination, Italy is one of the best. The sheer variety of industries that call this nation a home is staggering and so you have the opportunity to dabble in as many interests as you have time. Live in Rome, Florence, Venice, or out in the Tuscan countryside surrounded by hills of vineyards. Italy is vibrant, electric, and a noteworthy way to discover your passions as you gain real world experience.  

Italy at a Glance

Domestic Population: 61.8 Million People

Capital City: Rome

Language: Italian

Currency: Euro

Trivia: Italy has three active volcanoes that have erupted in the last century – Mount Vesuvius, Stromboli, and Mount Etna. 

When

Internships can be found throughout the year and work very well with school schedules. If you are still a student, then there are many internships programs that run during the summer, winter, or spring and fall semesters. These programs can often be taken for credit so that you will be able to build up your resume while completing important degree essentials. 

Internship placements last anywhere from 4 weeks to 15 or more weeks. 

Programs and Popular Cities 

There are such a widespread number of cities, programs, and placements, that you could pretty much choose any industry and find an internship for that industry in Italy. The fields of business, hospitality, architecture, fashion, sciences, and communications only begin to scratch the surface of what is available. 

Find programs in Rome, Venice, Florence, Bologna, Milan, Naples, and many other culturally rich cities. Many of these internships also provide weekend excursions to nearby regions so that you will always have the chance to explore further afield.

Climate

The climate of Italy is extremely varied with certain regions having a Mediterranean feel throughout the year while other areas experience snowy weather. All seasons in Italy have their charm and so you will always find an activity no matter when you intern abroad. Imagine snowboarding in the snowy Alps as you intern abroad in Italy in the winter or dipping into the Mediterranean after hiking along the Cinque Terre trail during the spring or summer. 

Costs

It is rare to find a paid internship in Italy, but you can always try for a minimal stipend. Hospitality internships are usually the field where interns can earn a housing or living stipend. Otherwise, they might offer you free accommodation and meals. 

Many internship programs charge from $1,500 to $6,500 and often go to $8,000 or $9,000. The benefit of these programs is that everything is handled for you from start to finish. Your placement, accommodations, insurance, excursions, and language training, among other services, are included in the program cost, which can often save you a great deal of money and stress rather than booking everything separately. Internship costs vary by duration of program and location. 

The inclusion of the language course is one of the best perks since many internships in Italy require at least a partial understanding of Italian. 

Visa

Some programs require that you have a visa while others stipulate that a visa is unnecessary as long as you spend less than 90 days in-country. If you are a paid intern, then you will most likely need to apply for a work or internship visa. Your program and/or placement company will assist you with the process and detail all the paperwork that you need. 

Wrap Up

Take this opportunity to improve your language skills and diversify your life experiences. Network with international companies and individuals from across the globe as you pave the way for a future career. Discover your favorite types of pizza, pasta, and gelato and take the time to savor a sip of rich wine from a stunning vineyard. Intern abroad in Italy and embrace all that this lively and welcoming country has to offer.