Interning Abroad in Berlin: 9 Things to Know First

Internships in Berlin are truly unique. This thriving international city is perfect for students seeking hands-on experiences in their field. Because the city is so diverse, finding internships in Berlin for English speakers is an easy task to accomplish. The affordable costs of living, modern accommodation, and easy to use transportation make working and living in this capital city a breeze.

Easy, breezy, beautiful Berlin.

Known as “Europe’s Silicon Valley,” internships in Berlin are easy to come by because of the large amount of start-up companies based in the city. Start-ups in technology, nonprofits, and environmental groups are especially in high demand.

Since many start-ups in Berlin work at coworking spaces, there are plenty of chances for interns to network. Not only do interns get to work in a contemporary workspace, but they also are able to make global connections with a variety of companies and businesses!

Interested in becoming an intern abroad in Berlin yet? Here are nine things you need to know about interning abroad in Berlin.

9 things to know as an intern in Berlin

1. Most people are English speakers

Internships in Berlin for English speakers are not too difficult to find. While German is the official language of Germany, Berlin is known for its multicultural landscape and diverse population.

As an international city, most Berliners speak English in order to communicate with people who come from all over the world to live and work in the city. Even though most people speak English, it doesn’t hurt to learn a couple of German phrases before you go.

Learning a couple of German words might make it easier to get around the city or communicate with people. As an added bonus, you can impress the people at your internship with your advanced communication skills.

Explore by foot or by train!

2. Housing is affordable

Cities in Europe have a reputation for being expensive. Fortunately, the city of Berlin is different and is known for its affordable housing. The inexpensive costs make the city great for young people and young families just starting out.

With prices down, more artistic communities, environmental groups and entrepreneurs are able to move into the city and challenge themselves to advance their careers. For students studying abroad and working on internships in Berlin, housing may be included in the price of your program fee and/or tuition.

This all depends on which university you attend or which program you choose to participate in. For some extra help picking a program, browse internships abroad in Berlin for ideas!

3. Cheap cost of living

Besides affordable housing, Berlin also has a cheap cost of living rate. Food, public transportation, visa costs (and more) are all reasonably priced for students and interns abroad.

Because of the inexpensive cost of living, interns are free to spend their money on exploring the city, shopping, and traveling. In addition to these costs, health insurance, tuition, class materials and so on should be factored into your cost of living abroad budget as well.

Make sure to look for travel scholarships and financial resources to see how you can save money while abroad.

4. Easy to use public transportation

Coming from the United States, there is a good chance you may not be used to public transportation unless you live in or near a city. If you decide to intern abroad in Berlin, you will need to get used to using public transportation.

This city is most easily navigated by public transport.

No worries though, Berlin’s public transportation system is perfect for beginners. The U-Bahn, S-Bahn, buses, taxis, and so on have clear routes that are easy to follow.

Before starting work at your internship, practice getting around the city and use various forms of public transportation a couple of times. Then map out your internship location commute before you leave on your first day.

5. Startups are huge

Considered “Europe’s Silicon Valley,” Berlin stands out from other international cities in Europe because of their flourishing tech businesses and startups.

In addition, as an environmentally-conscious city, Berlin has a wide range of internships available for students interested in working for nonprofits and businesses committed to conservation, clean energy, fighting climate change, and so on.

Working as an intern at an international startup is a valuable experience that looks great on your resume. Being part of a small startup team can be ideal for an intern because it gives them the chance to gain hands-on experience in many different areas.

A chic coworking space might be in your future!

6. Relaxed work culture

Because of the startup scene and artsy culture, Berlin’s work environment is laid back and somewhat casual. Of course, this depends on the company you’re working for and the industry you’re in.

Startup businesses in Berlin are often based in coworking spaces. Coworking spaces are buildings with workplace spaces, useful amenities, and professional events. In Berlin these spaces are often designed with a modern and contemporary design to inspire innovation and motivation in the people that work there.

Thus, it’s common for internships in Berlin to take place in coworking spaces that are relaxed and comfortable.

7. Exceptional networking opportunities

Berlin is a great place to expand your network and make personal and professional contacts. Attend events and professional gatherings to meet new people and widen your net!

Events at coworking spaces are especially useful for creating lasting global connections. Because Berlin is such a diverse city with people from all over the world, it’s the perfect place to begin networking.

Oftentimes, coworking spaces will host events which allow startups and freelancers to gather and pitch their businesses to each other. Participating in events like these will make your internships invaluable and enhance your networking skills.

8. Stay informed in the news

Many Berliners and German citizens like to keep up-to-date with American news and politics. The United States’ influence on the city is hard to ignore with reminders of the past left standing in the city. The remnants of the now torn down Berlin wall, Checkpoint Charlie, and American fast food restaurants scattered around remind Berliners of the impact the United States has had on their city.

Swing by Checkpoint Charlie to see history firsthand.

Be prepared to talk about America’s influence and the current news cycle with people you work with or come into contact with. You do not need to get too controversial, but sharing your thoughtful opinions and ideas with someone is a great way to make more connections in Berlin and engage in a more meaningful travel experience.

9. Many internship options

Because of Berlin’s history, culture, and political landscape as the capital of Germany, there are a variety of industries to work in and learn from. There are so many businesses looking for interns in Berlin that it might overwhelm you!

Depending on the program and/or university you attend, you may have companies come to you through your provider. Make sure to take your time and examine the company before you commit to working with them.

Also, have an idea of what skills you want to build and what work you want to do so you can match up your goals with the company you intern for.

Get matched with 5 internships in Berlin—for FREE!

Ready to find internships in Berlin for English speakers?

Plan ahead for your internship abroad adventure. Berlin is the best city for starting your career and gaining experience in your industry. Working in such a rich and diverse culture makes internships in Berlin worth doing.

Since Berlin is an international city where most people speak English, finding an English-speaking internship is not difficult to do. The inexpensive living costs, quality accommodations, and efficient public transportation systems make living in the city and getting around stress-free.

Gaining international work experience and making important contacts are more great reasons why interning in Berlin is a great idea. So, what are you waiting for? Look into becoming an intern in Berlin today!