A specific skill I developed during my internship that I continue to use today is the ability to work closely with vulnerable communities and survivors of human rights abuses. During my time in Cape Town, I had the opportunity to engage in meaningful work with children whose rights were violated on a daily basis. This experience taught me how to approach individuals with sensitivity and respect and how to effectively carry out my responsibilities while maintaining empathy and professionalism.

Before joining Connect-123, I already had significant international and cross-cultural exposure. However, my internship through Connect-123 helped me grow on a deeply personal level. It made me realize that the work I was doing had a tangible impact on people’s lives. It opened my eyes to the privileges I hold and reminded me of the importance of using those privileges to be a voice for the voiceless. I genuinely believe I wouldn’t have reached that level of self-awareness without my time in South Africa.

After returning from my internship, I was entering my final year of college and I got to the conclusion that being in South Africa completely shifted my professional focus. Before, I was centered on international security and the effect of U.S. foreign policy abroad, but after SA, I nailed it down to human rights advocacy - the field I work in today. My internship clarified where my skills and passions could be most impactful.