Have you ever wondered what it would be like to intern in another country? Here’s a glimpse into Elle Creel’s internship in Cairo, Egypt! To find out how you can find an international internship, contact the GT Work Abroad Office.
Name: Elle Creel
Major: Business Administration
Year: Junior
Company: Egypt’s International Economic Forum
Location: Cairo, Egypt
Semester: Summer 2010
Take us through an average (or an exciting!) day:
There really was no typical day for me. I was working Monday through Friday, 9-5, but that was the only consistent part of my schedule. I was only there for seven weeks and wanted to maximize my time, so every afternoon was different adventure.
What were some of the best experiences you had?
I don’t even know where to begin! Spending three nights in the Black and White desert, floating down the Nile in a felucca, visiting the pyramids, having a traditional Egyptian meal with a family in Khan-el-Kalili, going to a Sufi dancing performance- the list truly goes on and on. But most of all, my favorite memories are of the incredible friends that I made there. Egyptians are so warm and welcoming and I am so thankful for the patience and hospitality that was continually extended to me during my stay.
What were some challenges?
The language barrier was tough. I don’t know any Arabic and it is a very difficult language to pick up! I relied a lot on my Egyptian friends to help me book taxis, pay my landlord, renew my visa, etc. Even the smallest of tasks becomes nearly impossible when you can’t communicate.
How did you go about finding this position?
I found this internship through AIESEC.
What advice would you give to other students?
Consider working abroad! It’s a much more immersive cultural experience than vacationing or even studying abroad. You will learn so much about yourself and what you are capable of when you completely disassociate yourself from your typical life and identity.
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