What does it take to turn a dream of gaining professional experience in the United States into reality? For Florent, it took determination, a strong portfolio, and plenty of emails!
While completing his master’s degree in architecture in France, Florent decided to pursue his required architecture internship in the US. Having previously spent a semester studying at a university in Florida, he was eager to return and experience the American architecture industry firsthand.
After contacting numerous architecture firms, Florent finally landed an interview and secured an internship in Sarasota, Florida. Spirit Cultural Exchange supported his journey by providing J-1 visa sponsorship through the BridgeUSA Intern program.
“When we want something, I think there is always a way,” Florent shared.
Gaining Hands-On Architecture Experience in the US
Florent’s architecture internship in the US was his first professional training experience at an architecture firm, giving him the opportunity to apply his academic knowledge to real-world projects.
He learned to navigate the imperial measurement system, explored American construction methods, and gained practical experience in residential design, construction drawings, zoning requirements, and collaboration with structural engineers.
One project stood out: a 30,000-square-foot private villa in Aspen, Colorado.
“I spent a lot of time on it. So that’s a good, good memory. It’s a really beautiful building,” Florent recalled.
He also discovered important differences between construction practices in France and the United States, particularly the widespread use of wood in American residential construction. These experiences broadened his technical knowledge and gave him valuable insight into how architecture is practiced across different countries.
Discovering American Culture in Sarasota
Florent’s architecture internship in the US was about more than professional development. Living just five minutes from his office and ten minutes from the beach, he enjoyed running around Sarasota, exploring the coastline, and spending time with colleagues.
His Host Company organized activities that helped him experience American culture and connect with others, including a Topgolf outing and a boat tour along the Sarasota coast. During the boat tour, he even saw residential projects designed by his firm!
Florent also traveled to Savannah, Georgia, and visited friends in Tallahassee, making the most of his time in the United States.
One of the most meaningful relationships he developed was with his manager, who continued offering guidance on his architecture portfolio even after the internship ended. That ongoing mentorship helped make the experience valuable well beyond his program dates.
How a J-1 Architecture Internship in the US Can Support Your Career Goals
After returning to France, Florent completed his studies and earned his master’s degree in July 2026. He remains eager to build on his education and gain further professional experience in architecture.
During a recent interview with an architecture firm, he noticed how interested the company was in his American internship experience.
“If I succeed to have a job and work one day in the US, that will probably be because of this internship.”
For Florent, the experience was more than a degree requirement. It was an opportunity to develop practical skills, expand his professional network, and take another step toward his career ambitions.
Florent’s Advice: Don’t Give Up!
Finding an international internship takes persistence. After reaching out to numerous architecture firms, Florent recommends researching companies carefully, personalizing applications, and explaining what you can contribute.
His message to other aspiring interns is simple: don’t give up when the search becomes challenging. The right opportunity may be just one email away!
Find Your Own Architecture Internship in the US with Spirit Cultural Exchange
Florent’s story demonstrates how an international architecture internship in the US can help turn academic knowledge into professional experience while opening the door to new cultural connections.
Through Spirit Cultural Exchange’s BridgeUSA J-1 Intern and Trainee programs, eligible international students, recent graduates, and professionals can pursue structured training opportunities in the United States across a variety of fields, including architecture, engineering, business, and more.
Like Florent, you can identify a US Host Company that aligns with your career goals and work with Spirit Cultural Exchange for J-1 visa sponsorship.