Sanjana Priyonti
Contributing Writer
Do you imagine yourself interning in one of Asia’s bustling economies? Whether you prefer the neon-lit streets of Seoul, the financial opportunities of Ho Chi Minh City, or the rich culture of Japan, the Freeman Asia Internship Program could be your key to an unforgettable summer. For Sewanee students, this program is more than just another opportunity to gain professional experience—it’s a chance to dive into new cultures, grow personally, and build global connections that will shape their future.
Picture this: you’re not just working at a desk job; you’re living and breathing in a dynamic city, making connections with people from all over the world, and building skills that will set you apart in today’s competitive global job market. The Freeman Asia Internship Program, funded by the Freeman Foundation and Sewanee Alumni Donors, allows students to live, work, and grow in countries across Asia, offering internships in fields like education, public health, business, and environmental conservation.
What started as a joint effort started by The Office of Global Citizenship and the Career Readiness Center has evolved into one of Sewanee’s most coveted programs. Marcus Murphy, the coordinator of the Program, explained, “We wanted to create something that wouldn’t just give students professional experience but push them out of their comfort zones,and help them gain valuable life skills like networking. This program was built to help students experience the world in a transformative way—not just for their careers but for their lives.”
Most students tend to gravitate toward Europe when they think about studying or working abroad. But with Sewanee’s strong alumni network in Asia and the immense cultural and economic influence of Asian countries today, the Freeman Asia Internship Program offers a unique way to gain a truly global perspective. It’s a chance to step into a region that’s shaping the future—and to come back with insights someone can only get from firsthand experience.
Through the program this year, Jennifer Quispe (C’ 25), a Sewanee student who interned in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam,, shared her unforgettable experience: “I had heard that Ho Chi Minh City was a rising financial hub, and I was excited to be a part of that. Working at [Global Commercial Real Estate Services] CBRE, a leading commercial real estate firm, I learned a lot about the local business culture while building my career.” But her internship wasn’t just about work—it was about fully immersing herself in Vietnamese culture. “The people were incredibly warm and welcoming. They were eager to share their culture with me, especially through food,” Quispe said with a smile.
Living in a new country means adjusting to a new culture, and that’s a big part of the Freeman Asia experience. Quispe faced her own challenges, including navigating how others perceived her American accent. “There were times when I felt like people’s preconceived notions about Americans influenced how they treated me,” she recalled. “But I stayed open-minded and made an effort to connect on a personal level, asking about their days, learning their names, and even trying out a few Vietnamese phrases.” Those small gestures helped her build meaningful relationships with locals, breaking down barriers and showing respect for their culture.
Jillian Thurston (C’ 26) took her internship to the fast-paced city of Seoul, South Korea. There, she learned how even the simplest routines—like commuting—can reveal cultural differences. “The trains in Seoul get so crowded, and there’s no small talk. Everyone is silent or scrolling on their phones,” Jilian shared. “It was such a change from back home, but I adapted. I started carrying a book to keep myself occupied during those quiet commutes.” Beyond her daily rides, Jilian found herself embracing the rhythms of life in Seoul, from sipping coffee at her favorite café to wandering the streets in the evening. “By the end of my internship, I didn’t feel like a tourist anymore—I felt like a local.”
This feeling of belonging, of not just being a visitor but becoming part of a community, is something that many Freeman Asia interns experience. Jilian summed it up perfectly: “I found my routine, my favorite spots, and my rhythm. It made Seoul feel like home.” Through these internships, Sewanee students don’t just gain professional experience—they truly live in the cities they work in, making connections that go far beyond their resumes.
For both Quispe and Thurston, the Freeman Asia Internship Program was nothing short of life-changing. Thurston’s time in Seoul gave her newfound confidence in navigating different cultures. “This experience made me realize that working in Asia isn’t just a dream; it’s totally possible,” she said. “Even though my internship wasn’t in the field I plan to pursue, it gave me an incredible introduction to Asian work culture and skills I’ll use no matter where I end up.”
Quispe’s time in Vietnam solidified her passion for international business. “The biggest lesson I took away was how important cultural awareness and adaptability are,” she explained. “Learning how to engage with people from different backgrounds and being open to new experiences helped me build relationships that I’ll cherish forever.” For Quispe, this isn’t just a feel-good takeaway—it’s a professional edge. “These are the skills that are going to help me succeed in any global business environment. My experience in Vietnam gave me the confidence to tackle any challenge that comes with working abroad.”
The Freeman Asia Internship Program is all about crossing boundaries—not just geographically, but personally and professionally. It’s about stepping into the unknown, embracing new challenges, and coming back with a broader perspective on the world and your place in it. For Sewanee students looking to grow, connect, and expand their horizons, this program is a must.
ow, it’s your turn. Applications for the Freeman Asia Internship Program closes on November 15. If you’re ready to explore, learn, and grow, this is your chance. The Freeman Asia Internship Program could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for to break out of your comfort zone, build global connections, and prepare for a future that’s as bright and diverse as the cultures you’ll experience.
Are you ready to dive into a whole new world? Get your application ready, pack your bags, and prepare for an experience that will change your life. Asia—and the Freeman Asia Internship Program—is waiting for you.