Is It Realistic for an Undergrad from Turkey to Land a Summer Internship at a Large Company Like Bloomberg in Europe?

It is not typically realistic for an undergraduate from Turkey to land a summer internship at a large international company such as Bloomberg in Europe. However, nothing is impossible, and it would be foolish to not try if this is what you want. Here are some actionable steps and insights that could potentially make your application successful.

Understanding the Challenges

The primary and, possibly, the only reason is the cumbersome process of obtaining an entry visa and possibly even an employment permit from a European country to work within a given timeframe. The visa and permit processes are not only complex, but they also add a significant economic burden to the company, making the hiring process more challenging and riskier for them. The administrative overhead, and the potential for delays, add to the complexity.

Steps You Can Take to Enhance Your Chances

1. Craft a Resonant Resume and Cover Letter

The very first step is to ensure that your resume and cover letter stand out. These documents are your first impression of why you would be a valuable addition to any team. Your resume should be tailored to the company's specific needs and requirements. For instance, if Bloomberg focuses on financial analysis and data manipulation, emphasize your skills and experience in these areas.

Skills: Highlight both hard and soft skills that are relevant to the role. For example, proficiency in Python or R for data analysis, or experience in project management tools like Trello or Asana. Relevant Experience: Include any internships, projects, or part-time jobs that demonstrate your ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Use metrics to quantify your achievements. Education: Provide details about your academic qualifications and any special programs or courses that are pertinent to the role.

2. Tailor Your Application to the Company's Region

Every company has a specific process for hiring interns, and sometimes these processes are region-specific. If the company has a branch in Turkey, it would be wise to reach out to their local HR department. They might be able to provide specific guidance or even facilitate an application that wouldn't have to go through the full international process. This can significantly speed up the time-to-hire and reduce the administrative burden on the company.

3. Network and Leverage Your Personal Connections

Networking is a powerful tool in the competitive world of internships. Reach out to alumni from your university, attend networking events, and use LinkedIn to connect with professionals in the field. Additionally, leveraging your personal connections, such as friends, family members, or mentors in the industry, can give you an edge. They might be able to provide a referral or even offer to vouch for your application.

4. Show Initiative and Perseverance

Internship applications, especially those involving international companies, can be highly competitive. Show that you are a proactive and persistent individual. Follow up on your application after a reasonable period to check the status of your application, but do it politely. If you don't hear back, it doesn't necessarily mean your application was unsuccessful. Sometimes, delays are simply due to the volume of applications or internal processes.

Final Thoughts

While it might not be realistic for everyone, it is important to not dismiss the possibility outright. The world of internships is ever-evolving, and new opportunities might emerge that can help you overcome the initial hurdles. If you have a strong CV, a convincing cover letter, and a bit of luck, your dream of interning at a company like Bloomberg in Europe is not entirely out of reach. Remember, nothing is impossible, and every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow.

Keywords: internship in Europe, Turkish passport, entry visa