Post: #1

I was browsing through the web the other day and i came to the realization of this type of program. Apparently most big corporations or public entities offer spots of undergraduate students, usually 3rd year, to work for around 9 weeks in one of their offices and get paid in the process.

Has anyone of you gotten one of this spots? How is the process?

I applied to a couple in different countries (Loreal, unilever, citi group, etc) but I don´t know how attractive my resume might be since I am not an american citizen.

Post: #2

Yup. Most are relatively competitive. If you're not in the US and not at a really good school I can put your chances at getting in almost zero.

Unless you're applying to roles in your country, that might be the exception.

Post: #3

Yup, this is very common. I did three internships and got a job with the third department after I graduated. Just helped a kid get hired to a similar program.

qwertyuiop is right. They are competitive and I've only ever seen local hires.

Post: #4

Are you set on doing business? I did an internship at an embassy--was a great gig. Not sure if different countries have interns work for their foreign affairs department, but worth a look.

Post: #5

AIESEC anyone? I thought they recruited a lot on college campuses

Post: #6

It's not unusual. It's almost mandatory for students if you plan on getting into any kind of competitive field after graduation.

I actually did one for my grad school last year in Europe no less.

Catch is that getting in if you aren't an American citizen can be difficult. Most companies aren't willing to sponsor international students for a Visa unless you have good odds of coming back full time after you graduate. HOWEVER if you are authorized to work in the US already this won't be an issue. If it is an issue you should look at any American companies that operate in the country where you do have a citizenship.

Additionally how much you need to prepare can vary. At top-tier firms the competition is intense to the point that you're unlikely to even get an interview unless you go to a top-tier school and/or have built strong connections at the company even prior to applying. At small companies you may be able to get the internship easily but you still need to practice your interviews and these aren't as likely to be good experiences.