{"id":37944,"date":"2025-09-12T10:47:29","date_gmt":"2025-09-12T10:47:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/?p=37944"},"modified":"2025-09-12T10:55:37","modified_gmt":"2025-09-12T10:55:37","slug":"8-tips-for-lgbtq-students-to-make-the-most-of-interning-abroad","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/8-tips-for-lgbtq-students-to-make-the-most-of-interning-abroad\/","title":{"rendered":"8 Tips for LGBTQ+ Students to Make the Most of Interning Abroad"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_75 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/8-tips-for-lgbtq-students-to-make-the-most-of-interning-abroad\/#Research_local_laws_and_social_climate\" >Research local laws and social climate<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/8-tips-for-lgbtq-students-to-make-the-most-of-interning-abroad\/#Choose_LGBTQ-friendly_internship_destinations\" >Choose LGBTQ+-friendly internship destinations<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/8-tips-for-lgbtq-students-to-make-the-most-of-interning-abroad\/#LGBTQ-friendly_cities_for_students_interning_abroad_include\" >LGBTQ+-friendly cities for students interning abroad include:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/8-tips-for-lgbtq-students-to-make-the-most-of-interning-abroad\/#Find_LGBTQ-friendly_internship_providers\" >Find LGBTQ+-friendly internship providers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/8-tips-for-lgbtq-students-to-make-the-most-of-interning-abroad\/#Look_for_signs_of_inclusivity_such_as\" >Look for signs of inclusivity, such as:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/8-tips-for-lgbtq-students-to-make-the-most-of-interning-abroad\/#Prepare_for_workplace_cultural_differences\" >Prepare for workplace cultural differences<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/8-tips-for-lgbtq-students-to-make-the-most-of-interning-abroad\/#Connect_with_support_networks\" >Connect with support networks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/8-tips-for-lgbtq-students-to-make-the-most-of-interning-abroad\/#Take_practical_safety_measures\" >Take practical safety measures<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/8-tips-for-lgbtq-students-to-make-the-most-of-interning-abroad\/#Decide_how_open_you_want_to_be\" >Decide how open you want to be<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/8-tips-for-lgbtq-students-to-make-the-most-of-interning-abroad\/#Remember_why_youre_there\" >Remember why you\u2019re there<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Internships abroad open doors to professional growth, cultural awareness, and unforgettable memories. For LGBTQ+ students, preparing for an internship abroad can also mean taking a few extra steps to ensure the experience is not only enriching but also welcoming and empowering. Considering factors like inclusivity, community, and local culture can help make the journey even more rewarding.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This guide will answer questions like: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is it safe for LGBTQ+ students abroad?<\/span><\/i> <i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to find LGBTQ+ friendly internships?<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are there support networks for LGBTQ+ students abroad?<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Let\u2019s get started! Here are eight tips to help you make your internship abroad a confident, rewarding, and unforgettable adventure.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Research_local_laws_and_social_climate\"><\/span>Research local laws and social climate<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the most valuable steps is learning about the local attitudes and support for LGBTQ+ people in your destination country. Some countries <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pewresearch.org\/religion\/fact-sheet\/same-sex-marriage-around-the-world\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">legally recognize same-sex relationships<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and actively protect LGBTQ+ rights. Others may not have such protections\u2014and a few actually <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/features.hrw.org\/features\/features\/lgbt_laws\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">still criminalize same-sex relationships<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knowing the law and cultural nuances helps you prepare. For example, while cities like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/lgbtq-students-guide-to-internships-abroad-safe-spaces-in-paris\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Paris<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/lgbtq-students-guide-to-internships-abroad-safe-spaces-in-lisbon\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lisbon<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are widely supportive, some places in Asia or Eastern Europe may have stricter norms.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Look up local government travel advisories, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ilga.org\/state-sponsored-homophobia-report\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ILGA World reports<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or relevant forums to get an honest picture of the LGBTQ+ climate in your host country.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Choose_LGBTQ-friendly_internship_destinations\"><\/span>Choose LGBTQ+-friendly internship destinations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The truth is that not all destinations will feel equally welcoming. If inclusivity is a priority for you, it\u2019s worth choosing places known for being safe and progressive.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"LGBTQ-friendly_cities_for_students_interning_abroad_include\"><\/span>LGBTQ+-friendly cities for students interning abroad include:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/lgbtq-students-guide-to-internships-abroad-safe-spaces-in-barcelona\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Barcelona<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Open culture, with major Pride events<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/lgbtq-students-guide-to-internships-abroad-safe-spaces-in-stockholm\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stockholm<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Known for equality and strong LGBTQ+ rights<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/blog\/lgbtq-students-guide-to-internships-abroad-safe-spaces-in-london\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">London<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Diverse and inclusive work environments<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re flexible on location, selecting a supportive environment can totally make your internship abroad program more enjoyable and less stressful.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Find_LGBTQ-friendly_internship_providers\"><\/span>Find LGBTQ+-friendly internship providers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When searching for internship opportunities abroad, it\u2019s important to ask how the program itself supports LGBTQ+ students.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Look_for_signs_of_inclusivity_such_as\"><\/span>Look for signs of inclusivity, such as:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Representation of LGBTQ+ interns in testimonials<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clear nondiscrimination policies<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Staff trained in diversity and inclusivity<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, some internship abroad programs work directly with companies that prioritize diversity in the workplace, which can create a safer and more affirming environment. Don\u2019t be afraid to ask providers directly how they support LGBTQ+ participants in their programs.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Prepare_for_workplace_cultural_differences\"><\/span>Prepare for workplace cultural differences<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Workplace culture can vary widely between countries\u2014what feels familiar at home might look different abroad. In LGBTQ+-friendly countries, you may feel comfortable being open about your identity, while in more conservative environments, you might choose to share personal details selectively.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knowing this in advance can help you decide how to navigate your internship confidently and authentically.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Connect_with_support_networks\"><\/span>Connect with support networks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A strong support system makes all the difference when you\u2019re far from home. Luckily, many destinations have active LGBTQ+ communities you can connect with! Here are some places where you can get started:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Student groups and university clubs &#8211; Often host LGBTQ+-friendly events<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Local NGOs and organizations &#8211; Provide resources and safe spaces<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Online platforms like Reddit or Facebook groups &#8211; Can connect you with others before you even arrive in your host city<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This network not only offers safety, but also a chance for you to make friends with peers who understand your experience. And it\u2019s more than just social\u2014stigma and exclusion can <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hks.harvard.edu\/centers\/cid\/voices\/why-inclusive-laws-and-policies-lgbtqi-people-benefit-us-all\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">negatively impact LGBTQ+ students\u2019<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> physical and mental health. That\u2019s why finding supportive spaces abroad isn\u2019t just helpful, it\u2019s essential for your well-being and success.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Take_practical_safety_measures\"><\/span>Take practical safety measures<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While most internship abroad programs prioritize student safety, taking a few personal precautions can help you feel more confident and prepared:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep important emergency contacts saved in your phone<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Learn key local phrases to ask for help if needed<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Know the location of your country\u2019s embassy or consulate<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These simple steps can help you navigate your host city smoothly and with peace of mind<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Decide_how_open_you_want_to_be\"><\/span>Decide how open you want to be<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your internship is about professional and personal growth\u2014but only you can decide how much of your identity you want to share.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some interns choose to share their identity with colleagues when the environment feels welcoming, while others prefer to keep personal details private during the program. Both approaches are completely valid. The most important thing is to make decisions that feel right for you while being mindful of local cultural norms.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s a tip: Practice how you\u2019ll respond to casual questions like \u201cDo you have a partner?\u201d so you feel prepared in different settings!<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Remember_why_youre_there\"><\/span>Remember why you\u2019re there<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At its core, an internship abroad program is about gaining skills, exploring career paths, and experiencing life in a new culture. For LGBTQ+ students, it\u2019s also a chance to practice resilience, adaptability, and self-advocacy.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you\u2019re exploring high school summer internships abroad or advancing your career with work experience, your identity is part of what makes your journey unique. Embracing who you are\u2014while being mindful of your environment\u2014can make your internship even more meaningful.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Taking part in internship opportunities abroad is an exciting way to grow both personally and professionally. For LGBTQ+ students, preparation and awareness can turn challenges into opportunities for empowerment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From researching laws to finding a support system, each step helps you create a safer and smarter experience while in an unfamiliar environment. And, sure, every journey is different, but one thing is certain: interning abroad shapes global citizens who are adaptable, resilient, and ready to succeed!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your identity is your strength\u2014and the world is waiting for you. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/info.absoluteinternship.com\/apply-now\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Apply with us today<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to join an internship abroad program that\u2019s inclusive, supportive, and designed to help you thrive.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Internships abroad open doors to professional growth, cultural awareness, and unforgettable memories. For LGBTQ+ students, preparing for an internship abroad can also mean taking a few extra steps to ensure&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6168,"featured_media":37945,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"content-type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[920],"tags":[1120,1119],"table_tags":[],"class_list":["post-37944","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-international-internship","tag-lgbtq-students","tag-lgbtq-students-internship"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37944","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6168"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=37944"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37944\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/37945"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=37944"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=37944"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=37944"},{"taxonomy":"table_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/absoluteinternship.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/table_tags?post=37944"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}