I interned with the Cape Town office of a wildlife trade conservation organization. In addition to reviewing proposed amendments to international wildlife treaties, I researched and published case studies featuring best practices for addressing local wildlife issues, including abalone poaching and seafood consumer transparency. I interviewed community leaders, and even visited an abalone farm and held baby sea snails. It was a hands-on, eye-opening experience that blended policy research with fieldwork.

Absolutely. After a prior internship at a litigation firm, I was unsure whether law was a good career fit. The experience opened my eyes to the many roles lawyers can play, and inspired me to pursue law not just as a profession, but as a versatile tool for ethical engagement and creative problem-solving.

Connect-123 gave me the confidence to dive into unfamiliar environments and trust my ability to adapt and contribute meaningfully. It also sparked a lifelong passion for exploring new places and cultures in a deeper way. I was lucky enough to complete another international internship in Bhutan during law school.