Syd Speaks: Summer Internship of Study Abroad?

Syd­ney Bar­ber

Staff Writer

Dis­claimer: Syd Speaks is a stu­dent run col­umn and is in no way pro­fes­sional ad­vice, this is just for fun! If you or some­one you know is strug­gling, con­tact our on cam­pus di­rec­tor of coun­sel­ing ser­vices at msil­vestri@as­sump­tion.edu. Take care of your­self.

Dear Syd,

I’m conflicted with accepting a study abroad opportunity or an internship for the future summers. Do you have any advice that could help me make my decision?”

~Anonymous

Dear sweet reader,

I can understand this conflict for you, as my friends and I are also going through the same decision-making process. There are many good things about both choices, the main being that they both provide you with amazing experiences, whether it be for your professional life or your personal life.  

Personally, I have chosen to take an internship opportunity for the summer. Because I am looking to apply to doctoral programs post-undergrad, acquiring clinical experience and field hours is crucial to the application process.

I decided for myself that an internship would both allow me to learn more about the career I am striving to enter and also broaden my network to further my chances of getting into my post-grad programs. 

On the other hand, my best friend has decided to accept a position in the study abroad program at Assumption’s Rome campus for the summer. She wanted to feel a sense of independence studying overseas and see what traveling and spending a month away from home would be like for her. It is a way for her to do something bold before stepping into the workforce following graduation; which for many is an important piece of growing up. 

Additionally, the beauty of studying abroad during the summer semester is that internships are also offered during the fall and spring semesters, which may also be the perfect fit for you!

So really, sweet reader, the choice is yours. Either way, the decision will be right for you. I promise!

Happy Summer,

Take care of yourself!

~S<3