Living abroad for an extended time and being immersed in a new culture gave me a greater sense of independence, as well as confidence in my ability to navigate life in general. The experience also helped expand my perspectives by exposing me to people from different backgrounds, with life experiences that in most cases were vastly different from my own. This improved my ability to see things from other people's perspectives, and to demonstrate empathy, which has been very beneficial in both my professional and personal life.

While the influence of Connect-123 on my professional development and career path was significant, it is the personal relationships that I developed during that summer that have had the most significant impact on my life. There are people I met during that summer who have become lifelong friends, with many shared experiences - weddings, vacations, impromptu visits - that I will cherish forever. I will always be grateful for the people I met during my time at Connect-123.

Don't be afraid to try something different, particularly if it is something that will challenge you and help you grow professionally, personally or otherwise. Take some risks, follow the less charted path and keep an open mind. Once you are in your internship, be inquisitive and take initiative to help wherever you can - you will get out of it what you put into it. And of course, spend time getting to know the people you are working with and who are in your program - you never know what lifelong friends may come out of it.