20 Romanian students start today the paid internship program Summer’s Cool at Nestlé, the largest food and beverage company in the world, in the context of an unprecedented interest in the program, reflected by a number of 870 applications.

Now in its 9th edition, it remains one of the longest-running and most appreciated professional development projects for young people in Romania, bringing together in 2026 over 110 participants from six countries: Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania, Serbia, Ukraine and Moldova.

The growing interest in the program reflects a broader trend among Generation Z, who are looking for internship experiences more than a first step in their careers: authentic mentorship, exposure to real projects and an organizational culture relevant to their values, and Summer’s Cool was designed precisely around these expectations.

Until July 24, students will participate in an interactive program, held 6 hours a day, 5 days a week, supported by over 60 professionals from the company: trainers, mentors and members of the jury. During the program, participants have the opportunity to understand how a global organization operates, interact directly with professionals from diverse fields, and develop skills relevant to the beginning of their careers.

The program covers key business areas, from marketing, supply chain, sales, finance, human resources, to sustainability and leadership. The experience is complemented by a field visit with the sales teams, which gives participants a direct perspective on the reality in the market.

“Since 2017, through Summer’s Cool, we have been constantly investing in the generation of tomorrow’s professionals. For many young people, this program represents the first real contact with the business environment, and for some of our colleagues today it was the very beginning of their careers in Nestlé. We are happy to offer participants an international learning framework, alongside experienced professionals from six countries, in a program that can truly influence their career path.”, explains Sidonia Bodianschi, Talent Acquisition Lead, Nestlé Romania.

The Summer’s Cool paid internship is part of the Nestlé Needs YOUth initiative, launched by Nestlé in 2013, with the aim of supporting young people in the transition from academia to a successful career. Since the launch of the program in 2017, over 130 students from Romania have benefited from this experience, acquiring practical skills and real exposure in the corporate environment.

Through Summer’s Cool, Nestlé complements students’ theoretical university training with authentic practical experience, which familiarizes them with the requirements and dynamics of the business environment. The program reflects the company’s commitment to developing human capital and supporting the new generation of professionals.