What inspired you to go abroad?
I was inspired to go abroad in pursuit of opportunities that would advance my career. As everyone knows, landing even an entry-level role often requires internship experience.
With a strong desire to change my scenery, I set my sights on one of the world’s creative capitals, New York City, to pursue those opportunities.
Why did you choose ArtBound Initiative?
I chose ArtBound Initiative because of its comprehensive program offerings, including guaranteed internship placement, creative network building, professional development, and dedicated team support.
It’s a well-rounded program that not only prepares you for the workforce but also ensures meaningful, hands-on experience in your chosen field.
Union Square
What was your favorite part about New York City?
My favorite part about New York City is the energy of its people. So many inspiring, hardworking, and effortlessly fashionable individuals in one place. Walking through the streets often felt like watching a live fashion runway, with everyone moving confidently toward their own goals at the top of the corporate ladder.
Nearly everyone has multiple hustles, and it’s motivating to witness so many people actively chasing their dream life in one city.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
My experience was extraordinary because, for the first time, I was doing work I genuinely wanted to pursue. Each day felt exciting—a chance to put my creativity to use in a meaningful way.
It was deeply fulfilling to contribute to projects that aligned with my career path, and I truly enjoyed both the work and the company culture. I could easily see myself working there full-time beyond the internship.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
The ABI local staff supported me throughout the program, beginning with an orientation that brought together other participants who were also new to the city. It was a great chance to ask questions, feel supported, and start building friendships.
I also connected with peers through in-person events organized for us, including a short film watch party followed by networking and a picnic in Central Park. Sasha, in particular, was incredibly friendly and welcoming—she went out of her way to make sure we all felt supported and at home in NYC.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
One thing I wish I had done differently was to save more money before going abroad. If I hadn’t needed to work so much in my free time, I would have had more energy and opportunities to fully enjoy the experience.
While I made the most of my time, the cost of living in NYC—between rent, food, travel, and even basic leisure—adds up quickly. Coming in with larger savings would have eased the financial pressure and allowed me to focus more on both my internship and my personal growth outside of it.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
A typical day in my life abroad looked like this: I would wake up at 7 a.m., get ready, and leave by 8:15 a.m. to catch the bus and train, then walk to the office, arriving by 9 a.m.
Once there, I usually made coffee or a light breakfast in the kitchen before checking in with my team to review the day’s agenda and start on tasks. Around 1 p.m., I had a one-hour lunch break, which I often spent either sitting on the rooftop or grabbing lunch nearby. After lunch, it was back to work until 6 p.m.
I’d then take the train home, usually arriving by 6:45, unwind for a bit, make dinner, and get ready to do it all again the next day.
What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?
During my free time in NYC, I truly enjoyed going out and exploring the city with new friends.
I did consume a lot of my time working a second job outside of my internship for financial stability; however, I did prioritize work-life balance.
I enjoyed trying new coffee shops, restaurants, and thrift stores in Manhattan and Brooklyn.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I had a single room in a shared apartment. I found my own accommodation through Facebook housing groups for young females searching for roommates.
I had a few requirements for my housing accommodations, including an open kitchen, big windows for natural light, enough closet/storage space, and my own room and bathroom.
I like best that my place ticks off all the boxes, making for a comfortable living space.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
One thing every future participant should know about the program before beginning is that you must hustle. Not only was I working extra hard during my (unpaid) internship, I also had to pick up a second job to make sure I was financially stable at the time being.
It did take a toll on my body physically, exhausting me. However, I was determined to finish strong and put my best face forward for work every day.
The Statue of Liberty
Would you recommend ArtBound Initiative to others? Why?
I would and have recommended ArtBound Initiative to others every chance I get. Without this program, I would have continued to struggle with landing an opportunity to gain agency experience in my field.
Creative industry jobs are not about what you know but more about who you know. Having connections is vital to your advancement and success. I'm grateful for the new community and network I've built through ABI and the ability to leverage those connections with their partner companies for an internship experience.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
I think the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the self-actualization that comes with it. I was able to envision myself in a career and lifestyle beyond my hometown, which helped me realize just how big the world is and how many opportunities exist globally.
Getting a taste of this career pathway gave me both clarity and motivation to keep pursuing it.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Technically, I relocated to NYC and made it my new home. The move has impacted my life tremendously, as nearly every aspect of my life has changed since then.
I now have an updated resume with agency experience that I’m confident will open doors to future opportunities. Just as importantly, I’ve built new friendships, found mentors, and made valuable connections that will continue to support my growth.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel, to me, is traveling with intention and purpose. It means taking a trip with a clear goal or outcome in mind.
That could mean immersing yourself in another culture, gaining new skills and perspectives, pursuing a business opportunity, or visiting loved ones who are important to you.
