I realize that some of my recent posts have focused on some challenges I’ve experienced, and so today I will divulge some of the benefits of working abroad, and at a fashion magazine.

1. Free magazines.
Need I say more? I don’t ever think I will look at magazines I see on sales racks the same way again. (And I will definitely be sad when my internship ends, and I have to return to getting magazines the old-fashioned way!)

2. Making connections.
I am in contact with people in high positions, who could be useful as I continue my career path.

3. Goodies.
Magazines have goodies, or free gifts they like to send customers. Not only are these fun to look at and organize, but when there are older goodies that need to be thrown away, people are welcome to have them.

4. Access to a gourmet cafeteria.
This may sound average, but it is definitely not. The cafeteria at the publishing house serves the best cafeteria food I have ever eaten (sorry Scripps!), and is practically a five star restaurant.

5. Language improvement.
Each day I am forced to practice my German, a skill that will be needed should I decide to work abroad.

6. A paid internship.
This is something you rarely see in the U.S., especially at a fashion magazine. I actually thought I was not going to be paid until I saw my contract.

7. Weekend travel.
Munich is in close proximity to many other popular destinations, allowing for fun, affordable weekend trips. Last weekend, for instance, I got to enjoy Prague.

8. Knowing the trends ahead of time.
Even though I would never call myself a fashionista, it is funny to be able to read the editorial plan for the next 6 months, and to learn which colors will be in fashion in December.

9. Learning about myself.
Through my internship this summer, I have learned more about what aspects of my job I like, and what aspects I would like to avoid in the future. I know I want to work in media, but not as someone’s assistant. My work needs to be creative, rather than one that involves mostly putting together excel sheets. I can work a 9 to 6 hour job and keep a social life, but I’m not sure if I want to in the future. It has been an interesting summer so far, and I am excited to see what I will learn in the second half of my time here.