Meet Bei Yi in Portland!

"Do things you’ve always wanted but would never have dared to while you were at home. This is an opportunity of change which you would probably carry with you forever. Don’t be afraid to be yourself!"
We asked Bei Yi some questions about her 10 month internship in Portland, Oregon. Read the complete interview here:

Why did you choose to go abroad?
I’ve always enjoyed travelling as it’s a good and fun way to get out of my comfort zone and also get to know people. I was also at a point where I was deciding what I want to do with my career so this was a really great opportunity for me to do both that.

How did you find your internship?
I sent some applications online to programs I found interesting and was super stoked to find that I had been accepted at Portland! It’s funny because I’ve always heard how hard it is to find an opportunity like that and never thought I would get a chance so I’m glad I ended up trying.

How do you feel about your internship so far?
It hasn’t been easy but of course, nothing that’s worth doing ever is. I’ve gotten to work with many professionals in the field and be involved in so many amazing productions I never had the chance to do before.

How does the American culture differ from your culture and what has impressed you the most?
I wouldn’t say it’s too different from my culture but I’m impressed at how easily it is to have a conversation with most people you just met.

Could you take us through a day? What is your routine?
On show days, I wake up in the morning, do my own stuff, head to the playhouse for show work and head home, sometimes after a drink with colleagues. Non-show days are a little bit more flexible and usually involves shadowing professional designers and working on the sets. We often watch production outside of my company as well.

What is your housing situation?
My company works with the supporters to provide housing. Personally, I live with a lovely couple who are kinda like my parents here! We also have a dog named Sterling.

Have you made any trips so far?
So far it has been too busy to leave Portland, but I would love to visit Chicago or California once the program ends.

What are your future plans?
I’m not sure yet, I’ve wanted to study in University before but now I’m thinking if a good career opportunity comes along, I might just take it.

How has this experience abroad helped you grow both professionally and personally?
I’ve learned so much and seen so many productions in just 2 months and am expecting to be involved in more productions. Personally, I’ve also learned to appreciate things about myself and learn about the person I can be without the dependency on my friends and family back home. Being away has also helped me appreciate the things I didn’t back in Singapore and I although I love my time in Portland, I also can’t wait to bring the new experiences back home and share it with my loved ones.

Why would you recommend others to do their internship/traineeship abroad?
Do things you’ve always wanted but would never have dared to while you were at home. This is an opportunity of change which you would probably carry with you forever. Don’t be afraid to be yourself!

If you could express your internship experience in three words, what would these be?
Overcoming, friendship and boldness.