Susann, a guest author at allmaxx and a graduate of political and communications science, reflects on her internship in Washington. Who could give you better tips about internships in the land of opportunity than an insider?! Here are the 6 golden rules for your time as an intern in amaaazing USA:
A lot of what you know from the USA and see in films is true... but a lot of it isn't. In any case, it's worth finding out what the country and its people are really like and how the Americans work, because it's quite different to the German working climate.
1. Networking, networking, networking!
Nothing works in America without this magic word. Every opportunity is used to network and that is very important, because no matter whether you are looking for an apartment or a job, want to vacation in another state and need accommodation or just don't want to spend your weekend alone - your network is decisive.
2. Initial contact
But how do you come into contact with an American? Most of the time you don't have to worry about it at all, because since you look a bit strange and lost, you'll usually be spoken to quickly. The first sentences are: “Hey, how are you? I’m…” and please don’t answer that with your worries and fears. This sentence is the icebreaker and starts the conversation. While you're still thinking about how to address the other person, the American already has the patent recipe ready. So feel free to start with these sentences.
3. Business cards...
As the conversation continues, it's always a good idea to have a business card with you. This way you can quickly give your new American acquaintance your contact information without running through the hallways looking for pen and paper.
4. … and small talk
In the first conversation it is very important to remain politely distant. Americans are not used to talking to strangers about problems or very personal topics. Small talk is an initial sense of whether you can be useful to each other and whether the chemistry is right. Serious concerns are shared, if at all, only with the closest friends or with the psychologist. So keep that in mind and give your conversation partner enough 'space'.
5. Working hours
While in Germany your boss usually wants to see you working hard from 9 to 6 and your break is exactly one hour and not a minute longer, in the USA they aren't quite as strict with you. Working hours are often used to chat with colleagues or have a detailed telephone conversation with old school friends. It is also clear to everyone that Facebook is your constant companion and that you want to like something here and there. BUT: Americans like to stay in the office a little longer. If you want to impress your boss, you should show your presence in the office. Of course, that doesn't mean you can't tweet 
6.Breakfast bread? What is that?
Fast food, food truck, jumbo slice and BBQ – America is the land of fast food and Americans like to treat themselves to a bite while walking during their lunch break. For anyone who isn't a fan of burgers and fried foods, I can give the all-clear. In America you will find a huge selection of restaurants from all over the world. Whether Thai, Italian, Nepalese or even German – there is something for you too. Of course you can also bring something for your lunch break, you strange German 
An internship in the USA can be quite tricky. So that you do everything right, here are our tips!
