Intern Testimonials

At SACC DC we have an intern network that stretches back more than 20 years. We are so impressed by the careers and lives that our interns have led following their time with us. Read more to hear their experiences at SACC DC and how they shaped their careers.

I was a trainee at SACC-DC during the spring of 2021. As part of my master’s studies at American University in Washington, D.C., I had the opportunity to complete an internship for academic credits. With the COVID-19 pandemic ongoing, I was the only SACC trainee physically based in Washington and at the House of Sweden at that time. Despite the unusual circumstances, I had a rewarding experience, gaining exposure to a wide range of tasks and challenges. From day one, you are entrusted with responsibilities and have a significant influence on the chamber’s daily operations, ultimately contributing to the promotion of business between Sweden and the U.S. The internship also provides a unique opportunity to expand your network on both a personal and professional level.

After my six-month internship with SACC-DC, I was fortunate to continue my journey when Karin Hammar, the Executive Director at the time, brought me along as she took over as CEO of SACC-USA. I spent a year with SACC-USA as a Financial and Business Associate.

Following a total of 18 months with the chamber, I was hired as a Financial Accountant with the Swedish company Trelleborg Engineered Coated Fabrics in North Carolina. Over the next two and a half years, I worked primarily in finance and sustainability, expanding my experience I gained during my time with SACC - DC. After spending a total of 8.5 years in the United States, I returned to Sweden last December, where I now work as a Sustainability Controller at Trelleborg AB.

I would strongly recommend applying for an internship with SACC-DC. It offers invaluable firsthand experience in an international environment. Regardless of your background or career goals, the internship provides an excellent bridge between academic studies and the professional world. In addition, you will have the chance to experience the vibrant city of Washington, D.C., and immerse yourself in a new culture.
The experiences and relationships I built both within and outside the House of Sweden have been absolutely vital to the next steps in my career.

I had the pleasure of doing the 12-month Lars Bjerde Memorial Fund Internship in 2021/2022. I spent the first six months full-time at SACC-DC, followed by six months where I split my time between SACC-DC and Volvo Group. The experience was incredibly valuable – not only did it give me broad, hands-on exposure across areas like finance, public affairs, marketing, events, and communications, but it also offered excellent networking opportunities.

The skills and perspective I developed during my internship laid a strong foundation for working in fast-paced, international environments. Today, I work in strategic communications at the global agency Kekst CNC, advising companies on complex issues related to corporate reputation, M&A, public affairs, and crisis communications.

Working closely with the talented SACC-DC team and the Board of Directors was an exceptional experience that deepened my understanding of international business  – the insights I gained continue to shape my career today. I highly recommend the SACC-DC internship to anyone looking to gain international experience and grow professionally – it’s truly a one-of-a-kind opportunity.

My time as a Business Development and Marketing Associate at SACC-DC was a memorable experience. I learned how to navigate an international business environment, met a lot of inspiring people, and spent my days working alongside wonderful colleagues.

During my traineeship, I deepened my skills in marketing strategy and cross-channel communication to increase engagement, skills I still use today. SACC-DC gave me the opportunity to connect with my current employer, Haypp Group, where I now work in Marketing and E-commerce.

I highly recommend this internship to anyone looking to grow both personally and professionally. You never know where the adventure will take you, but I can guarantee you’ll make friends for life along the way.

I had the pleasure of interning at the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce in Washington, DC, during the fall of 2022. The experience was both rewarding and formative, complementing my studies with hands-on skills in writing, communication, and project management. Working closely with the board and fellow interns in an international environment strengthened my interest in pursuing an international path. 

Today, I am studying International Development at Sciences Po in Paris and interning at the Dag Hammarskjöld Foundation, where I support the Executive Director with strategic partnerships and outreach. My time at SACC-DC laid an invaluable foundation, providing experience in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and introducing me to inspiring people who continue to shape my professional journey.