Reviews
Real stories from real participants, parents and university partners who share their experiences as well as their advice. Learn more about the benefits Connect-123 interns and volunteers receive on our programs around the world!
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Jose E
I interned at a cooperative that focused on giving out loans to other cooperatives in Argentina. My tasks ranged from translating documents to scenarios for loans on Excel. The most meaningful thing I take away is all the meetings I had with leaders of co-ops in Buenos Aires. Simply listening to their situations was enlightening. I appreciate every moment the organization, Connect-123, and Brenda have given me. This has been an unforgettable few months! Everyone who can, should take advantage of this opportunity.
Internships in Buenos Aires
Christine N
During my internship I contributed to an international project focused on autism screening and community research priorities. My work involved systematically screening studies, reviewing inclusion/exclusion criteria, and extracting detailed data into shared spreadsheets. I gained experience in critically reading abstracts and full texts, interpreting methodologies, and paying close attention to performance metrics such as sensitivity, specificity, and AUC values. Beyond technical skills, this internship gave me a deeper appreciation for the nuances of autism research — especially the importance of ethical considerations, community involvement, and shifting away from overly medicalized models of disability. I learned how to apply exclusion codes consistently, collaborate with peers across time zones, and manage large datasets precisely. This experience strengthened my research skills and my ability to reflect on the broader impact of scientific work. It challenged me to think critically about equity in autism research, including representation across countries, age ranges, and support needs. I now feel much more confident navigating scientific literature and contributing to conversations around research priorities. Overall, my internship was both practical and meaningful. It reinforced my academic interests in neurobiology and psychology while developing transferable organizational skills, critical analysis, and teamwork skills. I am grateful for the experience and for the opportunity to contribute to research that has real-world impact.
Abbott S
Connect-123 helped me find a strong engineering internship where I learned a ton. During my time there, I became more skilled in SolidWorks and gained valuable experience in design. One of my most memorable moments was attending our company party, it really showed me the kind of community a workplace can create. Outside of work, I loved exploring Ireland through trips to the Cliffs of Moher, Giants Causeway, and the Howth cliff walk. My biggest piece of advice is to talk with everyone and build connections, you’ll meet so many interesting people, and everyone is eager to help.
Internships in Dublin
Brooklyn B
I would highly suggest interning abroad. It was an amazing experience filled with so much knowledge. I learned more than I could've imagined during this time. At first, it may seem challenging but trust in yourself and the people around you. It will be okay! Connect-123 did an amazing job providing us all with everything we needed. They also did a great job at planning and coordinating activities. I appreciate all their help throughout this program. If you're thinking of going abroad, I suggest you do it!
Internships in Dublin
Damien C
My experience in Dublin has helped improve my professional skills. I was able to apply my finance and real estate skills to a professional setting which has helped build my confidence as I enter the work force. Overall, I was able to make several professional and personal connections and improve as a person, student, and professional.
Internships in Dublin
Shiran L
I really enjoyed this experience. This experience not only enriched my academic accumulation but also gave me new thoughts on my future career path.
Michelle T
I got matched with a company relevant to my interests and worked with some amazing people. In my internship I created lead magnets and developed an operations manual/cultural handbook for a film production company. The skills I developed most while interning have been communication, adaptability, and time-management. Xena showed a genuine understanding of my goals and challenges. She was always responsive and open to addressing any questions. Her willingness to help made me feel heard and supported throughout the Connect-123 internship program.
Luke S
My internship at a film production company was an incredible experience. Filming and shooting with Kez and the actors was definitely the highlight, I learned so much through that project. Coming in, I knew nothing about cameras, but now I have a strong understanding of the exposure triangle and how to use it in practice. I also developed important communication skills, both in working with clients respectfully while filming B-roll and in collaborating with the team. The regular team Zooms and structured work environment were new for me, and they taught me how to commit to a routine and be a contributing part of a group. I was able to pursue exactly what I want to do and I'm really thankful for that!
Nick S
I had an amazing experience this past summer in Dublin interning and studying for eight weeks. At my internship I learned new problem solving and programming skills. I would recommend this program to any college student that wants to study abroad since Ireland is a beautiful country.
Internships in Dublin
Atharva K
My experience with Connect-123 has been nothing short of exceptional! They did an amazing job matching me with the perfect organization and internship that aligns perfectly with my skills and field of interest. This was my first time working remotely, and Connect-123 made the entire process seamless, enjoyable, and rewarding. I felt supported every step of the way, and the opportunity to work remotely was an unforgettable experience. A big thank you to Connect-123 for making it all possible—I am absolutely thrilled and give them a well-deserved 5 stars!
Carol L
Connect-123 was super helpful in preparing me for my internship and putting me in touch with my supervisor. The organization and role matched exactly what I was looking for, and I really enjoyed the experience. Interning here for the past two months has been a great learning experience!
Haotian Z
This is a perfect experience. It's my first time working in a real world working environment. I've learnt a lot that can't be in courses and I believe this experience will give me more confidence and competence in finding my next internship and my first job.
Rosemary J
I got to meet so many people from work and it was a great help for me to grow in the hospitality industry.
Internships in Dublin
Erin M
I had an amazing experience with Connect-123! They found an internship in the design industry that perfectly matched my interests. I recommend this program to anyone interested in an internship abroad!
Internships in Dublin
Peyton M
I had an amazing time in Dublin. During my internship I learned so much about working emotional regulation and social interaction in children and adolescents. I enjoyed having the opportunity to apply skills I have learned at University in real-life situations, while being immersed in another culture.
Internships in Dublin
Neave D
Getting to experience Sydney for the summer was everything I had hoped for and more. Moving across the world for the summer can be intimidating, but it was truly the best decision I could have made. Through my internship at a financial advisory office, I gained hands-on experience that helped me grow, both personally and professionally. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and for my amazing supervisor, Antonella, who made the transition seamless and supported me every step of the way. This experience gave me new confidence, valuable skills, and memories I will carry with me for years to come.
Chelsea P
This opportunity provided me with the most meaningful introduction to what Europe is like with all its cultural insights. Being able to work in the heart of the city of Barcelona and to experience all that it has to offer for 8 weeks definitely allowed me to check off a bucket list location, while giving me a glimpse of what it's like to live in Barcelona all while learning and understanding through the different experiences offered.
Internships in Barcelona
Caroline J
With the help of Connect-123, I spent my summer interning in Barcelona at an NGO whose mission is to turn peace into a tangible, shared economic benefit for people living in conflict-affected regions. I worked closely with the incubation team, and by the midpoint of my internship, they trusted me to build out my own project. Over the following weeks, I developed a detailed budget, outlined a peacebuilding business model, and prepared concept notes to present to donors. I also conducted research on market entry strategies for shea butter in Europe and assessed alignment with funders like Cartier Philanthropy. However, none of this would have been possible without the support I received from Connect-123. They handled so much of the heavy lifting—from finding me an internship whose mission aligned with my core interests and convictions, to managing my housing and logistics. They were especially helpful during a heatwave that knocked out our AC unit, quickly finding a safe alternative apartment that very same day. This wasn’t some résumé-polishing summer abroad. It was long hours, rewrites, humid bus commutes, and moments of real, hard‑earned clarity. It was a summer of learning what it means to try something difficult in a place that stirs your imagination. Thanks to Connect-123, I got to experience the ineffable magic that floats through the summer air in Barcelona. Cheers!
Internships in Barcelona
Ashley S
My time in Cape Town has been nothing short of an unforgettable experience. I am incredibly grateful for this experience, especially as a first-generation Hispanic college student. I felt extremely supported throughout this experience, especially by our Connect-123 advisor, Carla. Carla made me feel welcome and cared for from the very beginning. This experience not only helped me in my professional development, but it also helped me learn more about myself.
Internships in Cape Town
Nathaniel F
I had the greatest two months in Dublin. I believe I was perfectly matched with the company I interned at, and I will never forget the memories and friends I made along the way.
Internships in Dublin
