This document discusses the benefits of STEM students interning abroad based on a literature review. It finds that employers highly value internship experience and soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem solving over academic skills. While many study abroad students and underrepresented STEM students could gain these skills, rigid STEM programs and lack of encouragement prevent it. The document argues internships abroad can help break down barriers for STEM students to develop soft skills, bring knowledge back to inspire US innovation, and encourage more underrepresented groups into STEM fields.