Quick Answer: American internship interviews differ significantly from Dutch job interviews. US companies expect enthusiasm, concrete examples using the STAR method, and a clear motivation for why you specifically want to intern in the USA. Expect 1 to 3 video interviews of 30 to 45 minutes, usually via Zoom or Teams, before you receive an offer. At InternshipFinder.co, you always start with a free intake conversation, where we also prepare you for these interviews.
An internship in the USA doesn’t begin when you board your flight, it begins with the interview that convinces the right company to choose you. American employers screen international interns carefully, since visa paperwork and sponsorship are involved. Candidates who prepare well immediately stand out from the crowd.
What American employers expect that’s different from Dutch companies
In the Netherlands, we value modesty and sticking to the facts. In the United States, that approach can actually work against you. American recruiters want to hear energy, confidence, and a compelling story about who you are and what makes you unique. A typically Dutch understatement like “I think I did okay” can come across as a lack of self-belief to an American interviewer. Instead, learn to talk about your achievements with pride and specificity, without exaggerating.
Americans also expect you to have done your homework on the company. Know their mission, recent news, and how the internship role fits into their broader goals. Being able to say exactly why you want to intern at that particular company, rather than giving a generic answer, makes a strong impression.
Master the STAR method
Almost every behavioral interview question in the US can be answered using the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result. Instead of describing your qualities in the abstract, you tell a short story that demonstrates them.
- Situation: Briefly sketch the context.
- Task: Explain what your responsibility was.
- Action: Describe the concrete steps you took.
- Result: Share the outcome, ideally with numbers or measurable impact.
Prepare three to five STAR stories in advance that cover teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, and handling setbacks. This way you’re never caught off guard by a question like
