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!
Scroll down to view all – or filter by destination, opportunity or both.
Shelby C
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in Buenos Aires! I have been able to eat fantastic food, listen to beautiful music, and feel the pulse of a unique city! Buenos Aires is a blend of cultures and demonstrates how beautiful it can be to accept everyone. I was never bored and saw so many amazing things! My internship was amazing, and I had the pleasure of working with a fantastic group of people for two months! As I leave Buenos Aires, I am leaving with unforgettable memories, a new family, and a different perspective on life!
Internships in Buenos AiresDania V
This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to spend two enriching months in Buenos Aires working as a Research Intern at an organization that promotes democratic participation and digital innovation in public institutions across Latin America. My role involved researching civic engagement and open governance, drafting reports, and internal documents. I also helped coordinate project logistics and engaged with local governments and NGOs to support the organization’s mission of fostering more inclusive and participatory public policies. Beyond the professional growth, what made this experience truly special was the sense of community fostered by Connect-123. From day one, Brenda De Pasquale (shout out to her!) made us feel seen and supported, not just as interns, but as people navigating a new city and culture. She was always present with a smile and great energy, helping us settle in, organizing incredible events like the Iguazú Falls trip (hands down one of the most magical experiences of my life), and recommending the best local spots to explore. I feel so grateful not only for the professional skills I developed, but also for the friendships and memories I take with me. Buenos Aires now feels like a second home.
Internships in Buenos AiresNevaeh S
I had a wonderful experience getting to work hands on in a field I want to spend the rest of my life in while immersing myself in a new culture of it. I loved meeting all the people from the program and I’m sure they will be lifelong friends whom I have lifelong memories with.
Internships in Cape TownNabeel A
The experience was an immersion of cultural awareness and both academic and career skills. The internships we were placed in really supported us in building critical skills for our careers and the environments we constantly found ourselves in and were very motivating.
Internships in Cape TownFuad D
Connect-123 made it possible for me to gain hands-on international experience while reconnecting with the continent that shaped me. From professional growth to personal clarity, this program has been a defining chapter in my journey. Thank you for the support and opportunity!
Internships in Cape TownAstrid B
I loved my experience in Cape Town! I am so grateful for this experience in Cape Town and that I got to do it with Connect-123. All of the Connect-123 staff was so helpful in my preparation to get there, and Carla in Cape Town helped us navigate the internship process and the city. My internship was great, and I learned a lot about how an NGO works. I also learned a lot about myself and what field I want to go in. Outside of work, the other Connect-123 students in the program were great to be with. All of us became friends, and we were always able to get a group together for activities. The Connect-123 events also helped us become closer, and all of the events were extremely fun. I will never forget this amazing experience.
Internships in Cape TownAnusha R
Traveling to South Africa was my first time abroad, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience than the one I had with Connect-123. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with warmth and hospitality by one of the best advisors I’ve ever worked with. During my internship, I had the privilege of meeting incredible people and learning so much from their knowledge and guidance. Beyond work, the group trips were an absolute highlight—fun, well-planned, and filled with unforgettable activities. I loved exploring new experiences and bonding with my peers along the way. This journey is something I’ll always treasure, and I truly hope everyone gets the chance to work with someone as exceptional as Carla!
Internships in Cape TownCole J
Cape Town is a beautiful city nestled between tall mountains and a vast ocean whose beautiful views pair perfectly with its endless activities. The diverse city has allowed me to gain different perspectives, lifelong memories, and new friends along my journey. I highly recommend Cape Town for any student who wishes to study abroad, especially in the hands of Connect-123.
Internships in Cape TownClara E
I am grateful for Lea Levy and Connect-123 for my incredible Bucknell in Dublin experience. The internship process began several months ago and Lea was helpful every step of the way. I found the application form to be very useful to specify our areas of interest. Lea found several company matches for me and continued helping out, despite my fastidiousness and desire to find the perfect fit. And I did! My internship was precisely what I was seeking, thanks to Lea's diligence and collaboration with me. She responded to emails in a timely manner and gave me interviewing tips to assist me in every way that I needed to secure my internship. Connect-123 also planned wonderful weekly outings, where I was able to further immerse myself with Irish culture and history. I feel that these trips complemented my abroad experience, because I would not have learned about the complex Irish history without the structured, guided tours. I am appreciative that Bucknell collaborated with Connect-123 to create such a well-rounded and personalized study abroad and internship experience. I will never forget my time here, so thank you.
Internships in DublinChiara B
I had such an amazing and enriching experience at my internship site! I met such friendly and outgoing people who encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone.
Internships in DublinEvan M
This was a program was amazing in allowing me to immerse myself into a completely different culture. It was truly the best summer of my life.
Internships in DublinJessica G
My experience of living and interning in Dublin for 2 months was something that I will never forget for the rest of my life. It was a transformational period in my life that shaped who I am both personally and professionally. The tools and techniques that I learned while completing my Social Work internship at a therapeutic community programme will forever stay with me, and I can not wait to bring some of these practices along with me to wherever life takes me next. The beautiful places that I got to see, along with the many amazing people that I met along the way have given me memories that will have an eternal impact on my life. To those who are considering traveling abroad for an internship experience, I would say DO IT! Do not hesitate if this opportunity presents itself for you, as you will inevitably grow as a person and undoubtedly have a life changing experience. Ireland is a beautiful country, with so many amazing places to see and explore, as well as people to meet.
Internships in DublinJacqie G
Interning in Dublin and having an opportunity to explore the city was wonderful! I was able to learn so much about more hands-on work in the realm of Psychology. I will be forever grateful for my time at my internship placement, the new friends I have made, and all of the amazing experiences I was able to have.
Internships in DublinBrooklyn 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 your thinking of going abroad I suggest you do it!
Internships in DublinLauren J
My experience in Dublin far surpassed my expectations and was the best summer of my life. My internship was great, with supportive and welcoming coworkers that provided me lots of support and a strong introduction to marketing and PR. I felt supported throughout the program and made lifelong friends and memories I won’t forget. Dublin proved to be a perfect city, both in size and culture, not overwhelming but with plenty to do and explore. The weekend trips were exciting and the class paired perfectly with each. I learned a lot about being in a professional work environment and am confident going into the years ahead with all that I’ve learned and the independence it’s given me.
Internships in DublinJackson G
Spending my summer in Dublin was the most eye-opening experience I have had to this point in my life! At my internship, I learned a lot about how I work best, where my strengths and weaknesses are, and how important communication is in a business setting. Outside of my internship, exploring Ireland was one of the most fun things I have ever done! I spent time in Dublin, Galway, and Belfast, learning a lot about Irish history and how such a small country has many different types of places and people. I highly recommend traveling abroad because it allows you to learn so much, especially about who you are as a person!
Internships in DublinSam F
Doing addiction support services work in Dublin has been very eye-opening and informative. I have done similar public health work back home, so seeing the differences between the States and Ireland was fascinating to see how services differ and related between the two countries. The work I did here has helped open my eyes to the kind of work I would like to do in the future which has been extremely helpful in navigating for grad school in the future. Having weekend programs planned by the program gave me a well-needed break from the intense work and allowed me to see more of Ireland I wouldn't have thought to visit otherwise.
Internships in DublinDaniel M
My favorite pre-internship experience in Cape Town with Connect-123 was amazing! I had a great time learning under the supervision of my preceptor at two different hospitals in the Western Cape. I also got to experience some amazing sights that South Africa has to offer. This pre-internship was like no other and I would definitely recommend this experience for anyone in the Child Life field.
Internships in Cape TownAbby F
This child life practicum experience was such an amazing opportunity. I was able to see the world while also learning about child life and how to be a better professional. The instructors made sure I was on the right track but while also bringing fun into the experience. I grew not only in my knowledge and understanding of my field but also in my personal life. This experience has changed my life.
Internships in Cape TownAllison M
I really enjoyed my time in Buenos Aires. Brenda was amazing. She was always willing to help us with anything no matter the time of day. She gave us great recommendations for things such as places to eat. The weekly excursions were really fun and useful to get to know the city and everyone else in the program. I really enjoyed the horseback riding event we had. Overall, I really enjoyed exploring Buenos Aires and the people there were equally as amazing.
Internships in Buenos Aires