Spain Surprised Me: 5 Things I Didn’t Expect During My Internship

 

For my internship in Spain, I had great local food, a great opportunity to practice speaking Spanish, and of course sunshine. All of those aspects were definitely part of the package, but what really surprised me most was just how different everyday life and working culture felt compared to what I was used to. During this opportunity, I daily learnt and discovered new mechanics about work and daily life. It is not only a great experience for your résumé, but also an experience that changes your habits, thoughts and assumptions: It’s about entering a different of life: There are five things that shocked me while interning in Spain, and why I am so happy I experienced them : 

 

The Schedule Is Completely Different (And I Loved It) 

First, the lunch started around 2 p.m, and we worked until 7pm or even 8pm. In the beginning I was a little bit shocked, because that felt so late! In my home country, the lunch is at 12am, and people are heading home by 5pm. However, it felt like there was less stress in the morning, more time to sit and chat during the work day. When I adjusted, I found that it was more balanced in its own way. Also, the rhythm of the day was just different here: mornings start a little more slowly, and nights were still high-energy. However, I was used to and I come to enjoy it. Lunch is a whole break to recharge, people go out, socialize, and do their nights, including weekdays. 

 

  The coffee breaks

One of the freshest things about working in Spain was that individuals actually take breaks. Coffee breaks, or “pausas para el café,” are about more than just getting a drink, it is a beautiful way to socialize with your colleagues! You just can get up from your desk, grab a cup of café con leche (coffee with milk), and catch up with colleagues on everything from weekend activities to current events. I think it is amazing how much I could pick up about my colleagues in those few minutes of break, and even more than in some whole morning meetings. Those breaks made me feel part of the group, comfortable, and connected. I started to wait for them every day. 

 

There’s Less Rush, But Still Results 

In my home country, I was used to a more fast-paced work environment, I had grown accustomed to individuals hurrying along, speaking quickly, and constantly seeming occupied. In this internship, however, everything is more relaxed, even the meetings can begin late by a few minutes, but this doesn’t make them lazy or inefficient workers. There’s just another energy. Less stress, and more on actually focusing on doing things the proper and better way. It taught me that a less stressful work life can be so productive, and sometimes even nicer.  

  

My Spanish Improved easily 

When I began my internship, I feared the language barrier. I worried especially about understanding directions and being able to communicate well in Spanish. After having the language all around me pushed my learning further than I had expected. From casual office conversation to reading Slack posts or hearing people talk at lunch, there was a steady dose of natural, real-world Spanish. In fact, I made a lot of mistakes. But with the help of my co-workers being polite, patient, and more than willing to help me become fluent. Doing it every day helped in a big way. 

  

Lunch Is a Big Deal 

Additionally, lunch in Spain is something very important. It is not grabbed while parked at your workstation. It is an important habit. It may be a three-course menu del día eaten at a café in the neighborhood, or it could be a relaxed chat with co-workers over lunch. Whatever, it’s a real break, something not stuffed into 15 minutes. This cultural difference caused me to think about the way I typically approach lunchtime: hurrying, distracted, and sometimes skipped. Lunch in Spain reminded me to unplug, savor food, and spend time away from screens. It’s such a basic concept, but it made my days more human. 

  

Final Thoughts. 

Working in Spain was about acquiring professional experience and about observing a different approach to working and life. I invested in the internship, but I’m leaving with something more: a mindset that is focused on balance, connection, and slowing down and savoring the now. If you ever get a chance to intern or work in Spain, especially for Animafest Experience, do not think twice. You might be amazed not only by what you realize professionally but by what you discover about yourself. 

Remember to share your pre-departure preparations with us as you get ready for your trip. On social media, use #AnimafestIntern2025 and tag @AnimafestExperienceInternships on Instagram. The adventure has just begun, and we can’t wait to see how your trip unfolds.

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