Connect-123 provided the opportunity for a life-changing experience. Their program was so much more than just a practicum. Through them, I gained child life skills I couldn't have learned anywhere else and developed life-long friendships. We were able to volunteer at several locations, building connections with the community and providing the students with diverse experiences. In addition to hospital settings, we got to visit a school for children with autism, a day center for children with a wide variety of disabilities, and serve at a local foster home. The two hospitals we volunteered at gave us experience in a pediatric clinic, a pediatric ward, and an oncology unit. This program enabled me to learn so many new skills and develop a culturally diverse perspective. I loved experiencing a different culture and getting to know the people. We had the unique experience of getting to advocate for child life in an area where it is not prevalent and see firsthand just how effective these principles are. After completing the practicum, I feel so much more confident in my child life skills. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience in one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. Connect-123 provided an exceptional learning experience as well as memorable activities that allowed us to really experience Cape Town. If you have the chance to participate in a program with them, it's absolutely worth it!