Well, there is no way to make it look better. Unpaid internship could be perceived as falling into the money trap even if your finances are close to depletion. Obviously, you will gain some practical experience, but at the end of the day, you have to pay a price. You may cope with this issue, yet you should be highly motivated. Your budget is a resource, and you have to treat it as it is.
First of all, assess your total amount of money. Calculate how many weeks/months you can stay unemployed without making any additional money. In case you have less than 3 months’ worth of finances, you should earn some extra money. For instance, it could be a part-time job.
Cut off all unnecessary subscriptions and services: Netflix, Spotify, gym, etc. The decision may sound harsh, but temporary lack of money calls for temporary boredom. Maybe it is time to forget about the next season of “Stranger Things”.
People tend to waste money on food. Meal prep is what you should start. Namely, eat mostly rice, beans, and eggs. Go to the restaurant with friends rarely. Your friends will certainly understand you as long as you explain everything.
What is more, internship without salary is quite unfair practice which takes advantage of your ambitions. Still, if this internship actually gives you an opportunity to become a professional in the sphere, you should go for it. Nevertheless, remember to consider other opportunities.
Sell all unnecessary things: old books, clothes you do not wear anymore, guitar you never play. Money is the king now because you need money, and it does not really matter where it comes from.
Finally, control your expenses. Download an application such as YNAB or create an Excel table to track how much money you spend and where. It will help you to cut your expenses. Just remember that this period is temporary. Investing in yourself is the key point now.