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Save €100 - Only until 31.12.2024!
Until the end of the year we're giving a €100 discount on all bookings. Plan your trip now
Winter vacation at SGA.
We'll be on a short Christmas break from December 23 to 27. After that we'll be back for you!
Save €100 - Only until 31.12.2024!
Until the end of the year we're giving a €100 discount on all bookings. Plan your trip now
Winter vacation at SGA.
We'll be on a short Christmas break from December 23 to 27. After that we'll be back for you!
Save €100 - Only until 31.12.2024!
Until the end of the year we're giving a €100 discount on all bookings. Plan your trip now
Winter vacation at SGA.
We'll be on a short Christmas break from December 23 to 27. After that we'll be back for you!
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Internship in Valencia: Marvin's 9-Week Experience with Spanish Culture and Architecture
CATEGORY: Internship abroad - Architecture
COUNTRY: Spain
READING TIME: 5 minutes
Marvin, an 18-year-old architecture student, spent 9 weeks in Valencia on an internship that provided him with valuable work experience and a chance to immerse himself in the vibrant Spanish culture. From exploring the city's historic charm and modern marvels to connecting with local traditions and overcoming unexpected challenges like the "Dana" storm, Marvin's story offers a unique perspective on living, working, and studying abroad in Valencia.
I am Marvin, 18 years old, and I spent 9 weeks in Valencia from late September to late November. This was not my first time there; I had visited the city earlier in 2024 to see my sister, who was doing a study abroad year. I was already impressed by Valencia's diversity back then: the beautiful city center with countless shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, as well as the classic Spanish "Mercados" in old train stations. There are also modern new constructions like the "Oceanografico". Besides the city center, Valencia has many suburbs dotted with mountains or right on the beach. The Spanish culture is omnipresent in Valencia: the streets are lively until late at night, the tropical climate with palm gardens and beautiful parks, and of course – very important – the excellent food.
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Marvin on Valencia's beach promenade)
One of many stunning parks in Valencia
Life as an intern in Spain
During my stay, I did an internship at two architecture firms. Initially, I was in a small studio in the city center. The boss was friendly but very busy, so I had little work to do at the beginning and mostly worked from home. This did not meet my expectations, so I asked the partner agency from SGA in Valencia for a transfer. After two days of searching, my internship was moved to a larger firm. There, I worked from Monday to Thursday, 10 AM to 2 PM, had nice bosses, and gained many insights into the work of an architect – from the initial customer visit to plan work on the computer to work on the construction site.
In the afternoons, I had plenty of free time, which I spent exploring the city, shopping, going to the gym, or meeting friends. The partner agency offered weekly events, such as city tours and movie nights, but I mostly spent my time with my sister’s friends, who were members of a Falla, a typical club in Valencia. The Falla organizes regular activities and celebrates a big event in spring.
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Dinner over Valencia's skyline)
Marvin visiting the famous L'Oceanogràfic
Valencia as an internship location
A key aspect of a large city like Valencia is its public transportation system. Unlike Germany, the public transport worked very well. With the metro system, I could get around quickly, cheaply, and, most importantly, on time. In addition to buses and bicycles, the sunny weather and pleasant atmosphere provided plenty of opportunities for walks.
Regarding accommodation, I was lucky and quickly found a shared apartment in a central student residence. I had four roommates, but I had little contact with them.
Unfortunately, I also have to report on a sad event: In October, Valencia was hit by the storm "Dana." Many suburbs were flooded, the metro system was disrupted until my departure, and there were significant losses and damage. Many of my friends had to spend weeks cleaning up, and normalcy had not yet been restored in many areas. Despite this, I saw the strong solidarity of the city: 10,000 people volunteered to fight against the catastrophe. Although I only heard about it from the city center, the mood in the city influenced my entire experience.
Despite this incident, it was a great time in Valencia that I recommend to anyone.
Written by Marvin from Germany (intern in Valencia with StudentsGoAbroad)
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