Interning in Spain can be an enriching experience both professionally and personally. From its diverse work environment to its vibrant culture, the country offers many opportunities for students and young professionals looking to develop their skills in an international environment. However, to make the most of the experience, it is important to prepare properly. Here are ten tips to help you get the most out of your internship in Spain.
If you are looking for a paid internship in Spain, you are in the right place. Animafest Experience offers you this opportunity and all you have to do to get started is sign up here.
1. Research Spanish Business Culture
Every country has its own style of working and Spain is no exception. Spanish business culture values personal relationships and open communication. In the workplace, interactions tend to be friendly and sometimes informal, but professionalism is also expected. Do some research on work expectations and norms to better adapt and make a good impression.
2. Familiarize yourself with the language
While many companies in large cities like Madrid and Barcelona can work in English, being fluent in Spanish is a great advantage. Practicing the language before you arrive will allow you to communicate better with your coworkers and have a more complete cultural experience. You don’t need to be completely fluent, but learning a few key phrases and everyday expressions will make a big difference.
3. Make Sure You Have the Necessary Documents
To do an internship in Spain, you will need some important documents. If you are an EU citizen, the process is relatively straightforward, but if you come from outside the EU, you will probably need an internship visa. Make sure you have all the required documentation, such as a valid passport, letter of acceptance from the company and health insurance, before your trip.
4. Research Cost of Living and Prepare a Budget
The cost of living in Spain can vary considerably between cities. Madrid and Barcelona are generally more expensive in terms of accommodation and food, while smaller cities, such as Seville or Valencia, offer a lower cost of living. Calculate your approximate monthly expenses, including accommodation, transportation and food, and prepare a budget so you can manage your finances well.
5. Find Housing Ahead of Time
Once you know in which city you will do your internship, start looking for housing. There are platforms such as Idealista, Fotocasa and Badi where you can find apartments and shared rooms. Often, sharing an apartment with other students or young professionals is an affordable option and allows you to make friends quickly. It is recommended that you check the proximity to your workplace and public transportation to facilitate your commute.
6. Learn About the Transportation System
Public transportation in Spain is quite efficient, especially in large cities. Familiarize yourself with the metro, bus and train system in the city where you will be doing your internship. Some cities offer discounted travel passes for students or young people, which will help you save on commuting. Also, if you plan to travel around the country, you may want to consider the high-speed train network (AVE) or intercity bus lines.
7. Be Prepared for Different Work Schedules
In Spain, working hours may vary from those in other countries. In many companies, the workday starts between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m. and usually includes a lunch break that can last up to two hours. It is also common for some offices to have an intensive workday in the summer, where you work only until the afternoon to take advantage of the good weather. Adapting to these schedules will allow you to better integrate into the work environment.
8. Wear Clothing Appropriate for the Climate and Culture
Spain is a country with great climatic diversity. In the north, such as Galicia and the Basque Country, the climate is more humid and cooler, while in the south, in Andalusia, temperatures can be very high in summer. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing for the region you will be in. As for work attire, although the style is varied, it is best to opt for professional attire, especially for the first few days.
9. Take advantage of Networking Opportunities
Interning in another country is an excellent opportunity to expand your professional network. Attend company events, conferences, workshops and other meetings to meet other professionals in your field. In Spain, personal relationships are important, and networking can open doors for you in the future.
10. Be Prepared to Explore the Spanish Culture and Lifestyle
One of the greatest benefits of interning in Spain is the opportunity to immerse yourself in its culture. Take advantage of your free time to explore the cities, sample the local cuisine and learn about Spanish traditions and festivals. Spain is known for its quality of life and relaxed lifestyle, so enjoy the atmosphere and experiences it has to offer. Participating in cultural and social activities will also allow you to better integrate and enrich your experience.
Conclusion
Interning in Spain is an experience that can make a significant difference in your professional and personal development. From learning a new language to adapting to a different culture, every aspect of this experience will help you grow and gain valuable skills. Preparing well will allow you to make the most of this opportunity, adapt more easily and enjoy all aspects of life in Spain. With these tips, you will be ready to start your internship in this wonderful country and live an unforgettable experience.
If you are interested, it is very simple:
1) Create an account on our website https://www.animafestexperience.com/signin.php.
2) Send us a message by WhatsApp +34 697 184 146.
If you have any questions about how to process the documentation, do not hesitate to contact us.
