Interview with SACC Alumni

Frida Eriksson was the Business Development & Member Relations Associate with The Swedish American Chamber of Commerce in San Diego, in the Fall of 2019. 

How come you applied for an internship with SACC San Diego?
I previously studied for a year at a university in the United States, and have since been eager to try out the American business environment. I had heard a lot of great things about SACC as an organization and the development opportunities you get as an intern there. When the internship in San Diego opened up, it felt like the perfect match for me - the Californian climate was appealing and I was ready for the challenge this particular position seemed to entail. 

Why would you recommend others to apply for an internship with SACC?
The internship at SACC leaves plenty of room to grow and develop both career wise and on a personal level. The combination of a challenging and exciting job with a fantastic city and climate, doesn’t get any better. Additionally, the American "anything-is-possible" mentality  is so motivating and the contacts you make here are priceless. An internship at SACC can open so many doors and opportunities - in my opinion, it is the perfect springboard and start to an international career.

​Do you have any good advice for standing out in a recruitment process?
Ask questions, it shows that you are curious and interested in the internship position in question. Be clear with why you want to work for SACC, as well as how you can contribute to the team. Be your unique self!

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What have you learned through your internship?
I have gained an incredibly educational insight into the American business culture and the internship came with a lot of responsibility. Much of my work was on my own initiative and you really get the chance to push and challenge yourself. You also come across a variety of people and cultures, which has made me more flexible in my professional communication as well as broadening my sense of cultural differences. Handling the operational work as a small team in a start-up like environment has not only taught me the importance of good teamwork, but also given me a broader understanding of running a business. Interning for SACC is great practice and provides significant preparation for a future career.

What is there to do and explore in San Diego and Southern California when you are not working?
California has so much to offer, San Diego is perfectly located with opportunities for excursions either to the desert in the east or north along the coastline. San Diego has cool scenery, California's greatest climate and great surfing if you’re into that. I liked to go for hikes and to discover San Diego, Los Angeles and everything in between. In addition, there are incredible tacos in town, Taco Tuesdays are mandatory!

What do you think of San Diego?
The people of San Diego are welcoming and give the impression of having a admirable way and attitude towards life. Although San Diego can be intensive with all its business and innovation, the environment and the jargon feels easygoing and friendly, especially so outside of downtown and along the beautiful coastline. The city has such powerful nature and gorgeous scenery perfect for hikes, and just for being outdoors. San Diego is a city where you can find everything, and it has undoubtedly exceeded my expectations. You can't help but love this charming city!
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​Thank you Frida for answering our questions about what an Internship with SACC-SD could entail! The current SACC-team couldn't agree more. Do you have more questions about doing an internship with SACC? Email Anna Bedrot at operations@sacc-sandiego.org. 

Applications for FALL 2020 is now in full process, apply here!