Internship Experience at UNIC: A Journey of Growth and Cultural Exchange

Embarking on a three-month internship with the UNIC alliance, supported by Erasmus+ funding through Malmö University, was a transformative experience. This hands-on opportunity allowed me to contribute meaningfully while learning through practice. As I approach the completion of my Master’s in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, this internship provided the perfect platform to apply the concepts I’ve been studying.

From the outset, I was both amazed and slightly overwhelmed by the scale of activities within the UNIC alliance. With so many initiatives happening simultaneously, it took time to fully grasp the complexity of this dynamic network. However, with the unwavering support of my supervisor and team members, I found my footing and immersed myself in the projects I was part of.

As an intern, I was treated as a professional. My voice was heard during meetings, I had the freedom to create and lead projects, and I received the support needed to succeed. Working on the development of the SEOS program was especially rewarding, as it allowed me to merge my academic expertise in higher education with my professional background in communication and design.

Being based at Ruhr University Bochum in Germany added another enriching dimension to the experience. The cultural exchange was invaluable, and even the language barriers provided moments of humor and learning. One fun memory that stands out is how it took me a few days to realize that my colleagues weren’t referencing the Swedish pop group ABBA because of my Swedish background—they were simply using the German word ‘aber’, which sounds like “ABBA” but means “but”! Language, as always, brought its share of amusing misunderstandings.

The students representing Ruhr University Bochum (RUB) within UNIC also played a significant role in my experience. They offered tips about the campus and life in the city, helping me navigate this new environment. While the initial days were challenging, I grew increasingly confident as time went on, thanks to the guidance and camaraderie of everyone around me.

Reflecting on these three intense months, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of something so impactful. This internship not only enriched my academic and professional journey but also deepened my appreciation for collaboration, cultural exchange, and lifelong learning.

For anyone considering an Erasmus+ internship, I wholeheartedly recommend taking the leap. It’s a chance to grow, contribute, and embrace new perspectives—an experience I will carry with me throughout my career and life.

By Sidney P'Silva

If you want to apply for an internship at one of the UNIC universities, contact the UNIC local teams or info@unic.eu.