“What started as an internship in an unfamiliar land quickly became an eye-opening journey filled with professional growth, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of spontaneity and connection.”

Through IAESTE, I had the incredible opportunity to spend three months in Kathmandu, Nepal, working in the marketing department at The British College. Initially, my knowledge of Nepal was limited to Mount Everest, but little did I know that this country would offer so much more. 

When I first arrived, the traffic in Kathmandu was the most striking contrast to my experiences in Germany. In Germany, even pedestrians wait at a red light, no matter how empty the streets. Here, it seemed like people made their own rules, crossing streets and weaving through traffic as if by instinct. At first, it felt overwhelming, but over time, I realised that beneath the apparent chaos, there was a natural flow. The locals displayed a subtle system of cooperation, and once I adapted to it, I found it strangely beautiful.
 

The hospitality of the Nepali people helped me adjust quickly. From my very first day at The British College, I was greeted by welcoming smiles and handshakes, and I instantly felt part of the team. Everyone, from my colleagues to senior staff, made me feel like I belonged, and I was able to contribute meaningfully right from the start.
 

One of the most exciting parts of my internship was the sheer variety of tasks I was given. No two days were alike. Every day brought something new—from hosting Open Days for prospective students to representing the college at an education fair. I even attended networking events where I met professionals from across the globe. One of the major highlights of my experiences was participating in the British Cup, a three-day futsal tournament. My colleagues and I formed a team, and after some intense matches, we secured second place, bringing us even closer as a group.

But it wasn’t all about fun and games. I also had the chance to dive into serious projects, conducting competitor analysis and exploring potential B2B partnerships. Streamlining data collection was another challenge that pushed me to think critically and work efficiently. These experiences provided valuable insights into the marketing field and gave me a new perspective on how businesses operate in Nepal.

One of the things that stood out to me was how differently work is approached here. In Germany, meetings are scheduled well in advance, and plans are followed meticulously. In Kathmandu, the spontaneity of plans was a new experience for me. Some days, I would arrive at work with no idea what the day had in store. However, this unpredictability taught me to be flexible and proactive. I had the freedom to bring my ideas to the table and take on responsibilities that I might not have had elsewhere. This trust allowed me to grow in ways I hadn’t expected.

Networking in Nepal was also an eye-opener. Unlike the formal networking processes I was used to in Germany, everything here was based on personal relationships. My colleagues in marketing spent a large part of their day making phone calls, maintaining a vast network of contacts who were always ready to assist. This focus on building relationships to get things done was fascinating, and it’s a lesson I plan to carry back with me to Germany.

The people I met during my internship were more than just colleagues—they became lifelong friends. Whether at work or during our weekend adventures, I formed connections that I’ll cherish long after I leave Nepal. These friendships gave me an insider’s view of the country that I never would have experienced as a tourist.

Beyond the office, I explored parts of Nepal that will remain etched in my memory. One Sunday, a few colleagues and I ventured to Bhaktapur, where I savoured traditional Newari food and admired the city’s stunning ancient architecture. On another weekend, we hiked through breathtaking landscapes, leaving me in awe of Nepal’s natural beauty. Every journey added another layer to my appreciation of this country.
 

As I near the end of my internship, I reflect on all the incredible experiences I’ve had. Yet, my time in Nepal isn’t quite over. I’m planning a 14-day trek to Everest Base Camp next month, followed by some relaxation in Pokhara. 

This internship has truly been life-changing. I’ve not only gained professional skills in marketing and networking but also learned about different cultures, people, and ways of living. The friendships I’ve built, the challenges I’ve faced, and the memories I’ve created will stay with me for a lifetime.

Jonas Brueck is a 24-year-old German student pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration and Mechanical Engineering. His passion for travel and cultural exploration has taken him across Europe, where he has studied in Spain and Italy. Always seeking new challenges, Jonas thrives on pushing his limits, whether in academics or on international adventures. A lover of growth and discovery, he never shies away from the unfamiliar, always chasing fresh perspectives and unique experiences.