What Are the Different Types of International Trade Internships?

Participants in international trade internships can be assigned to one of many different organizational divisions that make up the foreign trade process. A number of these opportunities can be uncovered at the trade department in a country's federal government. Interns might also find assignments at financial institutions or other private organizations that are active in the international trade process.

International trade internships obtained by a government's trade division could unfold over the course of one year. Although students might be able to receive course credits for participating in internship programs, these individuals should not expect to be reimbursed financially. There may be some flexibility in the hours worked, however, and the skills that can be mastered throughout international trade internships could lead to a full-time career.

Students interested in being exposed to trade practices with a particular country could pursue international trade internships that are separated by region. Commerce between different nations varies and policies on influential matters such as tariffs change. Interns can observe the challenges and dynamics of relationships between parties by securing an internship that focuses on a continent or individual country. Students can also learn about some of the barriers of trade that exist between certain regions, which could position future generations early for furthering commerce developments.

Individuals can also become involved in international trade internships that are devoted to a particular aspect of the trade process, such as the law. Interns are likely to support senior legal staff in some administrative responsibilities, such as organizing meetings. The challenge in doing so might include coordinating the schedules of legal trade representatives from around the world. Documentation is a major component of international trade and interns could participate in preparing research and be required to provide information on tight deadlines. Interns could be placed in overseas programs, as well.

Investment banks are heavily entrenched in international commerce, and subsequently international trade internships can be found at many of these organizations. Often, importers turn to financing institutions for credit when performing international trade and banks provide much of the financing. Local and wholesale banks also have a place in international trade. Interns who take on a broader finance internship could be exposed to the role of these financial firms in the trade process and could get an opportunity to work with trade clients. Private sector internships might be paid assignments or may provide students with some type of stipend for expenses.