Author: Dina Kenzhegaliyeva
Barcelona is an exciting and vibrant city for Erasmus interns. With its sunny weather, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage, the city offers the perfect environment to learn, grow, and create unforgettable memories. My Erasmus internship in Barcelona was a truly impactful experience. It helped me build confidence, develop professional skills, and embrace a new way of living. Here’s how you can make the most of your Erasmus internship in this wonderful city.
Why Barcelona Is Perfect For Erasmus Internships
Barcelona is a city filled with opportunities for both work and personal growth.
The city is known for its warm climate, iconic landmarks, and friendly locals. It provides the perfect mix of leisure and productivity. As an intern, you can enjoy delicious Catalan and Spanish food, meet people from all over the world, and immerse yourself in a lively international community. Barcelona also offers a unique chance to develop professionally while exploring a culturally rich environment.
Preparing For Your Internship
Moving to a new city for an internship can feel overwhelming. With the right preparation, it can be a smooth transition.
Organize documents: Create a checklist for your visa, passport (ensure it’s valid for at least six months), and internship paperwork. This will help you avoid last-minute stress.
Set a budget: Plan your monthly expenses, including rent, food, transportation, and leisure. While Barcelona is affordable, managing your finances wisely is important.
Pack light: Focus on essentials. Barcelona’s mild winters and warm summers mean light clothing is enough, but don’t forget a few layers. Bring adapters, personal documents, and a sturdy backpack.
Research logistics: Learn about transportation options and neighborhoods to feel more prepared upon arrival.
Finding Accommodation
Finding a comfortable place to stay is essential for a successful internship. Barcelona offers options like shared apartments, student residences, and homestays. Each has its advantages, depending on your preferences and budget. I used Spotahome, which was incredibly user-friendly. The video tours and reviews made finding a place stress-free and reliable.
Getting Around The City
Barcelona is a compact city with excellent transportation options.
Public transport: The metro, buses, and trams are well-connected and affordable. A T-casual card is a great option for regular use.
Biking: The city has dedicated bike lanes and rental services for eco-friendly travel.
Walking: I often walked because my accommodation was close to my workplace. Walking saved money and allowed me to explore the city’s hidden gems.
Understanding The Local Culture
Adapting to the local culture will enrich your internship experience.
Be friendly: Smile and greet people warmly. Locals are welcoming and open to meeting new people.
Respect Catalan culture: Many residents identify strongly with Catalan traditions. Learning a few Catalan phrases can leave a great impression.
Must-Visit Places
Barcelona is filled with landmarks and hidden spots that every intern should explore.
Famous sites: Visit the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló for stunning architecture.
Museums: The Picasso Museum and the National Art Museum of Catalonia are must-sees for art enthusiasts.
Hidden gems: Wander through the Gothic Quarter or relax in Montjuïc Gardens for a quieter experience.
Building Connections
Making meaningful connections is an important part of an Erasmus internship.
Join groups: Erasmus organizations host events where you can meet other interns.
Use apps: I used Meetup to join language exchanges and karaoke nights. It’s a fantastic way to meet people with similar interests.
Balancing Work And Leisure
Barcelona’s vibrant social life can be tempting, but staying productive during your internship is important.
Set priorities: Focus on your most important tasks each day.
Stay organized: Scheduling apps like Google Calendar can help you manage your time effectively.
Make thoughtful choices: Attend events and activities that genuinely interest you without overcommitting.
Personal Growth Through Your Internship
My Erasmus internship in Barcelona was an incredible opportunity for both personal and professional growth.
Confidence and resilience: Living in a new city and facing challenges taught me how to adapt and thrive.
Improved skills: I developed my decision-making, problem-solving, and communication skills during my internship.
Discovering strengths: I realized that my ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds is my greatest strength. Being an effective communicator has become my top skill, and I am proud of how it has helped me build meaningful relationships.
Additionally, my time in Barcelona introduced me to the concept of slow living. Before this experience, I worked a demanding rotational schedule from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The city’s relaxed lifestyle taught me to appreciate a balanced pace of life, enjoy simple pleasures like a quiet walk, and focus on moments of mindfulness.
Final Thoughts
Barcelona is not just a city: it’s a chance to grow, explore, and develop skills that will last a lifetime. If you’re about to start your Erasmus internship, my advice is to stay open to new experiences. Meet people, immerse yourself in the culture, and embrace every opportunity. Your internship will shape not only your career but also your personal growth, leaving you with cherished memories and life-changing skills.
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