For students looking for international internship opportunities in the heart of a bustling city, interning in Madrid is an excellent choice. Internships abroad in Madrid give students access to diverse culture and beautiful scenery without the need to travel far for either.
Madrid is an ideal location for students who want an internship in either the business or government sectors. Not only that, but it’s also great for students who want to enjoy a variety of museums during their free time while abroad. Like any other major municipality throughout the world, an internship opportunity in Madrid works best for students who enjoy a fast-paced lifestyle.
In this guide, we’ll cover the pros and cons on an internship abroad in Madrid. Additionally, we’ll leave you with a good idea of where to intern in Madrid.
Pros and Cons of Internships Abroad in Madrid
Just like with any other international internship, an internship based in Madrid is going to come with its own pros and cons. Before settling on Spain, consider both ends of the spectrum in order to make the best informed decision possible. Remember to bear in mind the type of internship you’re looking for as that can also affect your final decision here.
Pros
- You can work and study abroad. Madrid has two separate universities you can study at while completing your internship. This is great because not only could your internship count as graduation credit but so could the classes you take at the University you choose. This will also allow you to use financial aid toward housing.
- Student interns stay with host families. This is a great way to really immerse yourself in the Spanish culture in Madrid.
- It isn’t a total culture shock. While Spanish culture is different from that of the U.S., there are plenty of U.S.-centered shops that can help you feel more at home.
- There’s plenty to do here. From museums to sporting events, you shouldn’t have any issues trying to find ways to occupy your free time.
Cons
- Racism and xenophobia still exist. Much like the United States, locals in Madrid tend to be less welcoming to students of color or anyone else that looks different from themselves.
- Getting a work visa is a process. In order to intern in Madrid, you’re required to get a 6-month work visa. While the process is straightforward, it can still take quite a bit of time to get sorted out.
Internships Abroad in Madrid: Best Fields
There are a number of large companies that are based in Madrid, including Telefonica and Banco Santander to name a few. While these companies may not be known at first glance, they’re among the prestigious list of Fortune 500 companies that likely offer internships within the company.
Even if interning with a major company doesn’t fit your fancy, there are plenty of museums, restaurants, and sports & entertainment businesses that are always looking for interns to join their ranks.
Parting Thoughts
Whether you’re a futbol fan or a museum aficionado, applying for an internship in Madrid is an excellent way to experience these hobbies firsthand. This country has so much to offer to young professionals and is the perfect choice for students who have a good understanding of Castilian Spanish.
Whether you choose internships abroad Madrid or a different country entirely for your international internship, we hope this guide has been helpful for you.
