Why Intern in the USA?

Step Into a Bigger Arena

An internship in the United States is more than a line on your CV. It is an experience that challenges you, stretches you, and positions you ahead of the curve. The U.S. is known for its ambition, speed, and culture of opportunity. By stepping into that environment, you place yourself in one of the most dynamic professional markets in the world.

Gain Professional Experience

American workplaces are fast-paced, performance-driven, and focused on impact. Interns are often given real responsibility and encouraged to contribute ideas. You don’t just observe — you participate. This exposure helps you:

  • Develop strong communication skills

  • Build confidence in professional settings

  • Learn to operate in competitive environments

  • Stand out to future employers

International experience signals adaptability, independence, and initiative — qualities highly valued in today’s global job market.

“I wasn’t treated as an intern, but as a real team member. I was given responsibility and learned a lot.” - Lieke de Wit

Gain International Experience

Working in the U.S. means collaborating with people from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. You learn to navigate different communication styles, expectations, and work rhythms. You’ll return with:

  • A broader worldview

  • Strong intercultural competence

  • Greater professional maturity

“Working in the U.S. exposed me to a different work culture and inspired me to think bigger.” - Omar Fawad

Build a Powerful Network

Your internship is about the company you work for, but also the people you meet. Connections made during your internship can lead to future job opportunities, international collaborations. long-term career growth. Your network becomes global.

“Through the people I met, I was able to build meaningful relationships that continue beyond my internship.”‍ ‍- Savas Murt

Grow Personally — Not Just Professionally

Living and working abroad requires independence, resilience, and adaptability. You will:

  • Step outside your comfort zone

  • Solve challenges on your own

  • Grow in confidence

  • Discover what you are truly capable of

Many former interns describe their U.S. experience as a turning point in both their career and personal development.

“I learned to adapt to a new environment and became more independent.” - Fleur van Oosterom

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Is It Challenging? Yes.

Is It Worth It? Absolutely.

Your Questions, Answered

  • You are welcome to apply for the Dutch2USA grant while still exploring internship opportunities. We strongly encourage students to begin their internship search as early as possible and to carefully consider which type of internship best fits their personal ambitions and long-term career plans. Finding your own internship is an important part of the journey and helps you develop valuable professional skills.

  • Internships can take place in a wide range of fields, including business, technology, arts, public affairs, science, and education. The internship must provide meaningful professional experience and meet the requirements of the J-1 visa program.

  • The grant provides financial support to help cover part of the costs associated with completing an internship in the United States. The exact amount varies, depending on the length of internship and financial need of the applicant. See Grant Benefits section on the Program page.

  • Yes. Internships must comply with the requirements of the U.S. J-1 visa program. Interning under ESTA is not permitted. We can support you in securing your visa.

  • The Dutch2USA Internship Program differs from the Fulbright Program in several ways. Dutch2USA provides funding for internships in the United States, whereas Fulbright primarily supports degree programs, research, or academic exchanges. Research internships may also be supported through Dutch2USA, provided they meet the program requirements.

    Applications for the Dutch2USA Internship Program are reviewed by the Netherlands-America Foundation, while Fulbright applications are evaluated by the Fulbright Commission. Although both programs aim to strengthen transatlantic exchange and provide valuable international experience, they are separate initiatives run by different organizations.