Studying abroad offers more than academic enrichment - it provides students with the opportunity to gain real-world experience in an international setting. For many students at John Cabot University in Rome, internships organized through our Center for Career Services play a key role in shaping both personal and professional growth.
During the Fall 2025 semester, American University senior Alessandra King joined JCU’s Marketing Office as a Marketing and Data Analytics Intern. In this article, she shares how studying and interning in Rome helped her develop valuable skills in global marketing, data analysis, and cross-cultural communication.
Meet Alessandra: My Academic and Professional Background
Ciao! My name is Alessandra King, and I was a study abroad student at John Cabot University for the Fall 2025 semester, interning with the JCU Marketing Office as a Marketing and Data Analytics Intern.
I am a Business Administration major at American University in Washington, D.C., with specializations in Marketing, Data Analytics, and Finance. Throughout my academic journey, I have been drawn to the intersection of creativity and strategy within marketing.
My coursework in consumer behavior, digital marketing, and marketing research helped me see how numbers tell stories. Data reveals patterns, guides messaging, and shapes campaigns that truly resonate with audiences. I’ve always loved the creative side of marketing, and learning how data analytics enhances audience targeting has strengthened that passion.
Why I Chose to Intern at John Cabot University
Before coming to Rome, I had completed internships in more traditional, U.S.-based environments. Interning at John Cabot University’s Marketing Office presented a unique opportunity: gaining professional experience in an international academic setting while studying abroad.
In previous roles, we often focused on one specific target audience. At JCU, the audience is broader, more diverse, and more global. This experience gave me valuable insight into how institutions communicate with prospective students across cultures and markets.
Prior to this internship, most of my exposure to global marketing came from classroom case studies. At JCU, I was able to experience it firsthand—learning how strategy, messaging, and branding adapt to international audiences.
Working in a Global and Collaborative Environment
What made this experience truly stand out was the cultural and collaborative environment. Working alongside Italian colleagues and international staff taught me that effective marketing must adapt not only linguistically, but culturally.
Discussions about campaign tone, imagery, and engagement consistently reflected the global identity of John Cabot University. This environment helped me develop cultural awareness and strengthened my ability to think strategically in diverse contexts.
Another major difference from my previous internships was the variety of responsibilities. Rather than working toward one single project, I was given weekly tasks that benefited both the team and my professional development.
Through this experience, I gained exposure to new platforms, data collection methods, and ways to transform insights into actionable strategies.
Hands-On Experience in Marketing and Data Analytics
During my internship, I had the opportunity to:
- Create and film digital content
- Analyze engagement, reach, and impressions
- Conduct competitor research on American universities in Europe
- Design and manage a semester-long student survey
One of my main projects involved collecting qualitative data on why students chose JCU. This research gave students a voice and helped the marketing team develop more effective outreach strategies based on real experiences.
Seeing how data directly influenced campaign planning was one of the most valuable aspects of my internship.
Finding an Internship as a Study Abroad Student
When researching study abroad programs, one major factor that attracted me to JCU was the opportunity to intern at an American university in Rome.
The internship process was seamless and well-supported. Through seminars, career resources, and intern spotlights, I learned what to expect and how to prepare.
The JCU Career Center played a key role in helping me identify an internship that aligned with my long-term goals. From the application process to placement, I felt supported and encouraged every step of the way.
The Value of Interning While Studying Abroad
Securing an internship in Rome was both exciting and challenging. Navigating a new professional culture taught me adaptability and resilience.
This experience reinforced that marketing is truly global. While audiences may differ, the goal of building meaningful connections remains the same.
Living in Italy also helped me grow personally. I became more patient, open-minded, and aware of how cultural nuances shape communication and storytelling.
Looking Ahead: Applying My Global Experience
As I've return to the United States, I plan to apply the skills I’ve gained in data interpretation, cross-cultural communication, and digital strategy to my future career.
I now see marketing not just as a profession, but as a form of global dialogue—one that connects ideas, people, and communities.
My time at John Cabot University reminded me that growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone. Every campaign, like every study abroad experience, is an opportunity to connect with something bigger than yourself.
Why Interning at JCU Makes a Difference?
Alessandra’s experience highlights the unique value of combining study abroad with professional development at John Cabot University. Through hands-on learning, mentorship, and exposure to global perspectives, students gain the tools needed to succeed in today’s international workforce.
For students interested in marketing, data analytics, or international business, JCU’s internship opportunities provide a powerful foundation for future success—both in Rome and beyond.
To learn more about studying abroad at John Cabot University and how you can secure an internship in Rome, visit our Study Abroad page or email studyabroad@johncabot.edu to explore your opportunities.
