Reviews

Grace F

My experience with an internship through Connect-123 was incredibly exciting; I ended up working in precisely the field I’m interested in and gained valuable experience that will help me pursue my career. I also really enjoyed the Connect-123 sponsored trips, especially to the cliffs of Moher. One of the best things about being abroad is the ability to travel further. I’ve been able to cheaply travel extensively around Ireland as well as in Germany and Italy. Another thing I appreciate is the automatic community I joined through Connect-123; it was really nice to arrive in a new country knowing that there were already some people I was connected with and who I could contact in case of emergency.

Chase B

With the help of Connect-123, I was able to make my dream of living abroad come true, while advancing my career goals. I got to work for a local newspaper on the outskirts of Dublin, and in my free time, I explored all of Ireland. I made some amazing friends and lifelong memories along the way. Connect-123 made a tricky process extremely easy, and the people really care about making your experience an exceptional one.

Jeyzon Fernandez

Looking back when I lived in San Diego, California, I still remember walking to my bedroom on a daily basis, sitting at my computer desk, sighing and staring at the enormous poster I had on the wall – it was a colorful world map. It was there to remind, motivate and inspire me to go for the things that I truly wanted – to return to Spain, travel, continue learning with a keen curiosity, self-educating/evolving, connecting and seeking understanding of other cultures and traditions. It was a difficult choice and challenge to go back to Spain, especially, this time, as an older guy. But I've learned that in the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take. That simple paper on the wall, that world map, kept me on track; it help me stay focus on my goals and to visualize the possibilities – that it was doable, reachable. Fast-forward to now, I have reached that goal. And I couldn’t have done it without the help and continuous support of the superb, professional and friendly duo from Connect-123, Zuzana Jurasikova and Mireia Vila. I’m grateful for Connect-123, the journalism/translator/editor internship opportunity with Barcelona, and for the new friendships I’ve made with other student “Connectors.” I’m aiming to keep growing personally and professionally in the beautiful city of Barcelona. I’ve no regrets in the choice that I made in joining the Connect-123 family and picking Barcelona as the place to pursue my career objectives. For any young soul out there who is contemplating on doing an internship in a foreign country that calls your attention, just do it. It's well worth it! I strongly recommend and believe in investing in your own experience and education because the impact can be of a positive life change, an unforgettable adventure, a transformative and eye-opening journey. In other words: priceless.

Julian White-Davis

I’ve spent the last six months living in Buenos Aires, Argentina with Connect-123 and can honestly say that I have zero regrets about choosing them as a program to guide me through my journey here. I’m 19 years old and was fresh out of high school when I arrived in the “Paris of South America” to begin my gap year practicing journalism before attending Carleton College next year. From the business that they found for me to intern at, to the events that they organized throughout my stay, Connect-123 crafted an experience that I will never forget. The newspaper that I interned at provided me with the skills and knowledge to move forward in my career with confidence. They gave me the opportunity to write over 50 articles about news, politics, and lifestyle going on in Argentina. Through my coworkers, I got connected with writers at Vice and was able to publish numerous photographs online! To say the least, it has been a life-changing experience. In addition to the professional training that I received, Connect-123 also provided support on a personal and social front. As someone who had never lived alone before, the prospect of living alone for the first time in a city of almost three million people was daunting. However, the events put on by Connect-123 with fellow interns at other businesses made me feel more at home and provided me with a group of close friends from around the world that I am still in contact with today. From street art tours, to music concerts, to nights of pool at old neighborhood bars, the events also gave me a chance to get to the know the city from the perspective of both a tourist and a local. Thanks to Connect-123 and their services, I have learned more about myself and the world in six months than I have in years and years of my life back home. I wouldn’t change a single thing about my time here in Buenos Aires and now feel more prepared than ever to take on the challenges of the next chapter of my life.

Treasure Roberts

Coming to Cape Town, South Africa for the first time I did not know what to expect, but this journey was everything I could have hoped for. I climbed mountains, I dived with sharks, I went surfing, I went to several braais (barbeques) and really learned so much about the culture. Tourism, however, was not what left a mark on my heart. It was being able to really engage multiple communities of Cape Town. My internship allowed me to see and do things that I never thought I would. This was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I’m so happy that Connect-123 facilitated it for me.

Emma Derr

Connect-123 planned incredible excursions during my stay in Cape Town. I especially enjoyed the educational outings to Parliament and Robben Island, and one of my favorite weekends was the Community Chef Mandela Day event when we cooked a stew for people in need. Having such great options every weekend at our disposable made the trip stress-free and enjoyable. I really felt like I got to know South Africa during my stay, and it amazes me everything we were able to see in eight weeks thanks to the program co-ordinators at Connect-123.

Brittany King

I have always wanted to travel, but after graduating, I wanted to gain experience in my career as well. That is when I looked into internships abroad and I came across Connect-123. The reviews spoke highly of the program and I was not disappointed. My coordinator was wonderful. She made me feel comfortable being in a new country by myself and provided me with amazing ideas to get the most out of my trip. The placement they found was amazing and the people were so nice and helpful. I learned a lot and gained a lot of experience. I worked at a newspaper and wrote at least five articles every week. It was a very busy two months, my days were filled with my work as an intern and with lots of travel and fun activities too. I visited downtown Dublin many times, went to Kilkenny, Glendalough, Wicklow, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Belfast and even travelled to Edinburgh, Scotland. Connect-123 gave me the best experience of my life where I got the chance to travel and gain experience to further my career. This program is the best choice for students interested in an internship abroad.

Giulia Monteleone

The time I spent living and working in Cape Town has proved to be the most powerful and intense experience abroad of my life up-to-date. When I first put foot in South Africa little I realised how much I had to learn about this country and how complicated and contradictory its everyday reality was. The support provided by the Connect-123 staff was invaluable – our program coordinators guided us through life in South Africa, making sure that each of us were getting the most out of our experience whilst staying safe and keeping an eye on budget! There is just so much the city has to offer: within a two-month period I climbed Table Mountain, hiked up Lion’s Head, went paragliding, spent a whole day in Khayelitsha, spent time by the ocean, went on a safari, and visited local markets and art galleries! Working as a journalism intern at a popular community radio station granted me an unequalled platform from where to observe and discover the fast-changing dynamics and phenomena underpinning the South African society. I was able to develop a first-hand knowledge of community media and to interact with a multitude of organizations on the field operating in the areas of the Cape Flats. A piece of advice: make the most out of it, because time will fly past you before you know it!

Nina Epifanova

I was looking for a journalism internship and my first preference was Cape Town, but then this opportunity in Ireland came up and before I knew it I had a Skype interview with the head editor. A week later I was on the plane to Dublin in chase for a new adventure. Connect-123 might seem a bit expensive, but they do work fast and once I said yes to this internship proposal it went really fast. They helped me with accommodation and everything else on site. I shared a room with another Connect-123 participant which was nice since it gave me a bit more feeling that everyone was in the same boat. My internship was a great learning experience and I actually really worked as a journalist. I would really recommend Connect-123 as it is really hard to get such a work experience on your own. I've also enjoyed Ireland more than I expected at first and I will miss all the new friends I've met in Dublin.

Ashley Nave

Are you looking for the internship of your dreams and one that falls under your area of study? About a year and a half ago, I said to some family and friends that it would be a dream come true to find an internship in Barcelona, and so one day I came across the Connect-123 program and they put it all together, an internship with a magazine in one of my favorite cities. Finding Connect-123 was one of the greatest opportunities I’ve ever experienced. From the friendly welcome at the airport and the diverse accommodations, to the program activities all throughout Barcelona and the writing internship itself, I not only gained professional skills but I lived in a community that I will never forget. I met people from all over the world there, and because of Connect-123, it felt like I was truly at home, even though I was over 2,000 miles away from my actual home. The program opened my eyes to living and working overseas in ways that I’d never understood before, being that they help you adapt to a foreign culture, a new lifestyle and incredible food, which doesn’t take much adapting to if you’re a foodie like me! It’s taking a chance for sure, but more importantly, you will walk away with unforgettable memories, long-lasting friendships and communication skills you might only achieve by studying and working abroad.

Mackenzie Brecker

Spending my summer in Barcelona was one of the greatest experiences I could've asked for! Thanks to Connect-123, I was able to live in my dream city, and work there! I had always had a fascination with Barcelona, but I never had a reason to go before. I was very nervous to come to Barcelona without knowing anyone, but Connect-123 provided me with all the tools I needed. Through my program, I didn't have to worry about finding housing, which took a huge weight off of my shoulders. Also, Connect-123 had weekly social events to meet other people from the program! Even though I was able to meet a lot of my friends through living in my apartment, it was awesome to meet people who didn't live near you, and the events were always super fun! Barcelona is such a beautiful city and there are always things to do. When I wasn't at my internship I could go to the beach, go sight-seeing, or just walk around the city. It's sad that my time here in Barcelona is coming to an end. My internship was exactly what I was looking for, and I was able to gain a lot of experience for my field in journalism. If it wasn't for Connect 123, I would have never been able to find an internship like this. Looking back, I will never forget this experience, and I will forever cherish the memories and friendships I made here.

Katrine Pedersen

To experience a lot of firsts all at ones - such as traveling on my own, moving to a new city with another culture and starting a new job, I have been grateful to have had Connect-123 and their amazing staff as support both before and during my 4 month stay in Barcelona. Not only did they help me find an internship, they offered security and a safe environment in which it was easy to find friends in familiar situations as myself. I might have been doing the traveling on my own, but reaching the destination I was far from that. During my stay in Barcelona I have been working, traveling, meeting new people and experienced far more than I ever imagined. It has truly been a great experience all together. Moving here was a decision based on the possibility of gaining professional experience that can help me get accepted to my studies back home - but I leave with so much more! I leave with new friends, a backpack full of experiences, a travel-journal run out of blank pages and cultural insight, but most of all I leave with a better knowledge of who I am, I leave with an evolved version of me and the person I was before coming here.

Krystal LaDuc

Dublin was simply unforgettable. Those 2 months quickly became a life that I could not bear leave, and Ireland quickly became home. With an incredible internship in my field, true friendships, and a lively culture, Connect-123 provided a once in a lifetime opportunity. Interning as a publications assistant, I was given the privilege to singlehandedly prepare a one-time sports anthology. This project included working closely with the publications manager, the editor, the designer, and the organization’s director. It involved compiling poetry, layout, proof reading, and negotiating copyrights from Irish and UK publishers.

The internship included everything from working on this major publication to simple office work and even to attending exclusive poetic, artistic, and cultural events through the city. The Connect-123 team worked hard to find an internship within my field that I was happy with, and I am so appreciative of all their efforts, communication, and reassurance. Along with the internship, I was housed with an incredible group of other interns, which led to memorable trips and lasting friendships. With Ireland’s landscape, accessibility, and location we were able to take several weekend trips (in and outside the country) that were easy and affordable! In such a welcoming environment, both socially and professionally, Dublin was a comfortable city with endless sites and places to discover!

This experience is truly indescribable. I have grown immensely as an individual, a professional, and a traveler. I cannot imagine my life without the people I met in Ireland and the memories I have made. It was, by far, the best time of my life. Now it’s time for you to go have yours! You won’t regret it. Cheers!

Lensa Bogale

I had the privilege of interning with a television series that broadcasts mini documentaries on issues of social justice in South Africa. Traveling to Cape Town for an internship was one of the best experiences I have had in my life thus far. It gave me the opportunity to explore South Africa through the lens of a native as opposed to simply that of a tourist. Connect-123 did an amazing job of pairing me with an internship that tailored to my passions/interests as a broadcast journalism major. My internship was very hands on; I was able to edit, interview, and pitch story ideas. At the end of my 6-weeks, I was privileged enough to receive a letter of recommendation to send to perspective jobs/internships. I have established life-long relationships with both my supervisors and co-workers. Creating a bond with the staff as well as the others participants in the program, Connect-123 genuinely felt like a second family. There was never a moment where I felt uncomfortable approaching a staff member with an issue I was facing and they were always more than willing to help in whatever way possible. From socials at the local pub to educational tours that delved into the history behind South Africa, I felt as though I was provided with a well-rounded experience. I sincerely miss South Africa and the people I met on my journey. The lessons of hard work, networking, and open-mindedness are ones that I will posses for a lifetime. To be able to simultaneously intern and travel was an experience I will never forget. I am beyond grateful and this internship will be noted as one of the highlights of my life.  

Georgina Hore

Ireland was part of my bucket list: a place I had dreamed of visiting. I got the opportunity to not only experience the rich culture, but do so while completing a fantastic internship with a local newspaper through Connect-123. The friendly people and amazing scenery added to this experience; one that I will never forget and one that I will cherish for years to come. It was incredible to get the opportunity to write for a local newspaper and get my articles published. My work environment was truly great and I loved going to work each day. I learnt a lot and was treated like a real journalist, as I was given my own stories and interviews; all of which will be a beneficial addition to my portfolio. This wouldn’t have been possible without the great team at Connect-123. They were able to place me in the internship and help with accommodation. They were always there if I needed anything and they also organised a great summer program involving all interns which enabled us all to get to know people from all over the world and create new friends. I would have no hesitation in recommending Connect-123’s Dublin internships to anyone. You are able to gain important hands on experience in your chosen career while also having the flexibility to experience the lifestyle and culture of another country.

Anja Filter

At the end of my final year of school I consciously made the decision not to take a gap year and instead jumped right into at least three more years of tests, assignments and exams. After seeing how much all of my school friends were enjoying their time abroad, I began to regret my decision. Although many of them were using their time to figure out what they wanted to do with their lives, I didn’t have the same excuse to take off for a year and leave my life behind – and I didn’t want to either. But I did want to spend some time abroad and see more of the world. Instead of simply spending all of my savings on a holiday, I decided to do an internship and, thanks to Google, this is where Connect-123 came in.

Tricia Tongco

Staying in a building named “Perspectives” is ironic yet appropriate, since I’ve gained so much perspective during my two and half months in Cape Town. Connect-123 made my transition to a new country smooth, which allowed me to truly focus on this new, intense place. Instead of spending my first week frantically searching for accommodation, I could go on tours, try the delicious food and explore this vibrant city. As for my internship, I couldn’t have wished for a better experience. As a broadcast journalism student, I had an opportunity to start producing my host organization’s weekly segment on my own by my second week. They trusted my abilities and gave me big responsibilities from the beginning – which was exactly what I wanted! I had a chance to meet interesting people and visit places that even Capetonians have never been. My coworkers were incredibly warm, encouraging people and were always there for support. I learned so much from them and feel more confident in my own abilities than ever before.

Justin Parsons

Connect-123 helped create a really incredible experience for me in Shanghai. They were very professional in their correspondence, from the initial interview to providing me with a good variety of internship and housing options. My internship itself was excellent and provided me with an experience that will be essential when I graduate and enter the job market. Connect-123 provided me with excellent options that I felt privileged to choose from. Shanghai is an incredible city and full of contrasts and energy. I had a great time there and met a lot of fascinating people. Despite speaking only a few words of Chinese, I’ve had some great opportunities to see different parts of the city through my internship. In Shanghai, Connect-123 continued to support me and I enjoyed the weekly dinners with other interns and international students. This has been a truly eye-opening experience for me, and I would certainly recommend Connect-123’s services to anyone seeking support in setting up an international internship.

Kelly O’Donovan

It sounds like a cliché, but I have had such an amazing time here in Cape Town, I can’t recommend it enough! The set-up here is perfect for whatever you are looking for. Steven and Lea are very good at judging what a person would want out of an internship and their experience as a whole. They have brilliant connections to make that perfect match. Without the support of Connect I would have been daunted by such a city and would never have found this internship on my own. With their help, however, I have gained the most out of my experience, both at work and when it came to discovering Cape Town and South Africa. I don’t think it will be too long before I am back again and I would recommend Connect-123 to anyone!