ArtBound Initiative - Creative Internships in Berlin

The program helped me to get an internship in an animation studio, the environment was fantastic and I didn't feel overwhelmed or overloaded with work; the tasks assigned to me where appropiated for my skills and helped me to improve further. It also helped me to improve my insights to get into the creative industry by the coaching sessions regarding portfolio and resume, as well as understanding how could we integrate into different working cultures. Although, I think the program should consider other housing partners that are more "open" into international bank accounts or could have better contact with bank institutions among the world given that I had problems with one of the housing partners regarding payments. Except from the last paragraph, it was an amazing experience!

Hi, I'm Sol and I studied Animation at Swinburne. I loved interning at The Mill in Berlin. Escaping the Australian summer to experience real winter with snow was so worth it. Though the cold was unbearable sometimes too... Without ABI equipping me for work beforehand I would never be prepared for real work. From coaching tailored for me specifically, giving me advice on how to improve my portfolio and CV, how to prepare for the interview, how to set up future goals, etc. The only con was, this was done while I was studying full-time at uni, so handling both at the same time was a bit hard. It is a long process and there is time pressure to get things done. But all the preparation landed me an internship with The Mill in Berlin. Interning with them was awesome, their team is so nice and they made me feel included and part of the team. I got to work on so many projects and also do a lot of different things, from motion design, concept art, graphic design, presentation decks, R&D, and more! Berlin has really good food around! And groceries are very cheap too! The accommodation was a bit expensive, but it was nice to have Berlin Central Station so close by! Berlin's public transport is soooo good, I could get to work in 30 minutes! The art scene is so good too, I only went to Museum Island, but that was enough for me! My favorite museum amongst them was definitely Alte Nationalagalerie. If you're into paintings, this one is for you too! I was able to make some friends in my time in Berlin too, not only cause I went to a Chinese church and they made me feel welcome, but our Aussie Crew (all through ABI) also hang out pretty often. We went to Sanssouci Palace with ABI! It was awesome! I wish I had more time or spared more time for traveling around Germany or Europe, but I'm already satisfied with all I've seen, also definitely want to go back to Berlin! Good luck to anyone who's going abroad! Have a blast!

I was fully supported in the run up to my internship by Laura, Nicole, Shaunda, Ginda and Zulfa. Their combined knowledge and support ensured I was fully prepped with a strong resume, online presence and portfolio, and within the interview with my potential placement! Thank you ABI!