Journalism thrives on diverse perspectives and meaningful connections. To create compelling and honest stories, journalists need to be able to communicate effectively with people from various backgrounds. Developing these cross-cultural communication skills is essential for success in the field—and one of the best ways to do so is with an international journalism internship.
An AIFS Abroad internship will help you expand your world perspective while building valuable skills that will launch your journalism career. AIFS Abroad offers exceptional opportunities for internships in some of the world’s best cities for news media, so here are our top five cities for journalism internships!
Want to lay the groundwork for a successful career in journalism? Explore AIFS Abroad’s top 5 cities for journalism internships!
1. Rome
Rome is a major journalism hotspot in Europe—news networks both big and small call the capital of Italy home. Become a journalism intern in Rome and you’ll find yourself in a unique news media environment that combines ancient cultural traditions and contemporary stories. While you learn from local news experts, you can build a professional network in a city with strong international connections, offering the perfect jumping off point for your career. Foreign correspondents flock to Rome to cover topics ranging from Vatican affairs and European politics to global economic trends and cultural stories. They report for a variety of organizations including newspapers, news agencies, TV and radio stations, and digital media outlets. With a journalism internship in Rome, you can gain hands-on experience in a range of roles and develop a deeper understanding of how to report on both local and international events from a city that sits at the crossroads of history and modern global affairs.
When you’re not staying on top of the breaking stories in Rome, you can learn about the major headlines of the past—Hannibal’s March on Rome, the rise and fall of Julius Caesar, Michelangelo’s masterpieces, and so much more. Besides the countless opportunities to soak up the local history and art, there’s so much to do and see. Hang out at the Piazza Navona and watch the city buzz with life. Stroll through Villa Borghese and enjoy the stunning architectural sites. Or conduct some research for your personal project—finding the best pizza and pasta in Rome!
2. Dublin
Dublin is a fantastic choice for journalism interns because of its booming business and media landscape that features a wide range of news outlets, media organizations, and digital platforms—providing you with hands-on experience in an international city known for journalism. As a journalism intern in Ireland’s capital, you’ll have access to valuable mentorship, networking opportunities, and exposure to storytelling techniques that connect with diverse audiences. Additionally, while Irish news organizations cover a range of geopolitical topics, many of them, like RTÉ News, have high journalistic standards where public trust remains very high. A journalism internship in Dublin will help you develop strong career skills in a country known for its journalistic integrity. Plus, the city’s dynamic media environment will allow you to gain experience with impactful projects that shape local and regional narratives.
Beyond Dublin’s career benefits, the city offers an exciting cultural environment for interns. The city is packed with history, art, and lively social scenes, offering ample opportunities to explore and unwind during your free time. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect wool sweater, exploring ancient ruins nearby, or taking a stroll through the stunning Trinity College campus, you’ll never run out of things to do and see in the Irish capital. From its bustling business and media sectors to its exciting pub culture, Dublin provides a perfect balance between work and play. Strike career gold in Dublin—where opportunity is as rich as the pot at the end of the rainbow!
3. London
It’s not hard to see why London is a fantastic place for a journalism internship—it’s a global capital for news and media of all kinds. England’s capital offers access to a fast-paced media landscape filled with newspapers, magazines, digital publications, broadcast networks, and much more. Interns can gain firsthand experience across various journalistic disciplines, including reporting on local politics and multimedia storytelling, while working alongside veteran professionals. Local and regional news organizations report on stories from around England, the UK, and beyond, making it a great place to develop skills in audience engagement, interviewing sources, and writing news articles for various demographics. Additionally, English news organizations offer unique insights into American politics that you may not be used to—a journalism internship in London will be sure to advance your career and expand your global perspective!
Outside of your internship, London offers endless chances for cultural enrichment and exploration. You can visit historic sites like the British Museum, Shakespeare’s Globe, and the iconic Fleet Street, once a center for journalism and the printing industry. The city’s multifaceted arts and theatre scene, which spans cultures and ranges from old traditions to innovative projects, provide endless options to enjoy life. With its extensive public transportation system and easy access to other European countries, London is a no-brainer for your internship abroad!
4. Sydney
Sydney is an excellent place to begin your journalism journey, with a lively media industry covering everything from politics and finance to sports and entertainment. As Australia’s largest media hub, Sydney offers opportunities to build vital industry skills, including digital journalism and investigative reporting, as well as in broadcast media and production. Interns can hone their expertise in newsrooms while covering local events like the Sydney Festival or the opening of new exhibitions at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. In addition, Sydney’s location and influence in the Asia-Pacific region makes it an ideal place to gain experience in an international environment.
When you’re not researching the newest story, you’ll find Sydney offers an incredible lifestyle. The locals are known for their sunny disposition, thanks partly to Sydney’s beautiful weather. During your time off from your internship, you can stroll down to the beach—take a nap on the warm sand, play beachside volleyball with Aussies, or go for a swim or surf! With its wonderful climate, endless activities, and welcoming atmosphere, Sydney provides an unforgettable experience you can’t get anywhere else.
5. New York City
The United States consistently makes headlines in every corner of the world, and as the news and media capital of the country, you can’t do better than a journalism internship in New York City. With its extensive and competitive media landscape, NYC offers unparalleled opportunities to gain hands-on experience in every aspect of journalism—investigative journalism, political reporting, entertainment coverage, digital media production, and broadcast news. Interns can assist with things like breaking news stories, prepping for interviews, and developing multimedia content, all while learning from some of the industry’s most experienced professionals. The city’s diverse communities also provide an excellent storytelling environment, helping aspiring journalists develop a multicultural perspective and a deeper understanding of complex social issues.
When you’re not advancing your journalism career, you’ll have plenty of time to learn why this city is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world. You can visit iconic journalism landmarks like the New York Public Library, the Paley Center for Media, and Park Row, the former newspaper hub of New York. The city’s world-class museums, Broadway (and off-Broadway) shows, and multiethnic food scene make every day an opportunity for cultural exploration, all within the U.S. With its 24/7 energy and access to top industry professionals, NYC provides an unmatched environment for personal and professional growth—after all, if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere!
Looking to impress employers with an international journalism internship? Connect with new cultures and develop your career simultaneously with AIFS Abroad!
An international journalism internship in one of the world’s most iconic cities is an incredible way to gain hands-on experience while immersing yourself in diverse cultures across the globe. AIFS Abroad provides unparalleled opportunities for aspiring journalists in some of the world’s most exciting cities for news. With inclusions such as housing, insurance, career readiness programming, excursions and activities, on-site staff, and emergency support, you’ll have a stress-free global education and professional development experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to gain hands-on journalism experience with an internship abroad!
