Interview with Cape Town & Barcelona Alum Josh!

We first met Josh when he interned in South Africa in 2010. Three years later, he came to Barcelona to have a second Connect-123 internship. Now that he’s back in the US working as an Investment Analyst, we interviewed him to get his reflections about both international internships.

We first met you when you interned in Cape Town back in 2010. Tell us about your experience there.
My experience in Cape Town was ideal. I spent my working hours in Gugulethu coaching basketball and soccer. I learned so much from the locals I interacted with on a daily basis. I ate their local food (magwinya) and learned some Xhosa. Then I returned to Cape Town after work where I lived with a roommate that I’m still friends with. I went wine tasting, bungee jumping, sky diving and volunteered. I was able to make Cape Town feel like home for my duration.

What made you decide to have another international internship with us in 2013?
In 2013, I realized that I would be graduating soon and that my chances to travel thereafter would be limited. As such, I connected with the program manager and relayed my newly updated work requirements (finance). I was able to practice my Spanish while progressing professionally. I lived in an Erasmus residence with revolving students mostly from different countries in Europe. I developed a love relationship with all of the French people that frequently vacation in Barcelona, the incredible seafood markets and the thriving night life. There was always something to do, the beaches were close and public transportation was wonderful. Barcelona was the most fun I’ve ever had – it just took a week or two before I realized how to transcend the tourist spots to find the great local hangouts.

Tell us about your internship in Barcelona.
My internship in Barcelona involved working directly for the Deputy CFO. I was surrounded by financial analysts willing to help me compile a report on European Regulation and the standardization of income statements and balance sheets for the largest, public banks in select European countries.

What are some of the personal skills and/or professional lessons you learned from your internship?
The skills I’ve learned from my two internships include befriending strangers, communicating effectively within different cultural frameworks, maintaining an open mind, utilizing different forms of public transportation, maintaining personal safety and networking. I’ve learned that people from all over the world are similar in a very positive manner and that race, gender and sexuality differences should be celebrated.

What is your current position?
I currently work as a Junior Investment Analyst for an Endowment Fund and have a full-time job set up as an Investment Analyst for a growing company that invests in private company debt.

Do you think your Connect-123 internships helped prepare you for where you are today?
During interviews, employers loved hearing about my experiences abroad. It gave us a chance to talk about something unique and differentiated myself from the other applicants. I went to places to have fun and learn and took jobs that helped me develop professionally. Connect-123 was a big part of my success.

Any advice for our readers?
My advice is to travel while you can, avoid sleep, be uncomfortable and follow long-term aspirations by completing short-term goals.