Reviews
Real stories from real participants, parents and university partners who share their experiences as well as their advice. Learn more about the benefits Connect-123 interns and volunteers receive on our programs around the world!
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Vanessa Gonzalez
After spending two months in Buenos Aires, I absolutely fell in love with it – and the assistance I was given by Connect-123 at all times contributed immensely to that. On the one hand, living in the capital of Argentina did not feel that foreign to me. I was born and raised in southern Brazil, and there were quite a few things I shared with the porteños beside a passion for mate and soccer. On the other hand, I would have not expected working there to be anything less than challenging. Whereas I was thrilled to do a microfinance internship with an amazing local NGO, I knew I needed to work very hard to get the most out of my experience -- I was in a different country, had to speak a different language and feared the long journey I had ahead. However, I was glad to be in touch with the right people. Having Connect-123 to rely on was fundamental for me to make new friends, share experiences with a group of interns from all around the world, and feel at home in Buenos Aires. During my internship, the NGO I worked with gave me the opportunity to learn about its microcredit programs, which assisted low-income families in the greater Buenos Aires area. My workmates were very kind, patient and welcoming, and some of my duties included interviewing women interested in applying for microloans; offering assistance during training sessions; and discussing investment strategies with local entrepreneurs. I also had to communicate exclusively in Spanish, which turned out to be a fun and rewarding experience. Argentina gave me the chance to learn much about myself and my role as a professional and a global citizen, and these are lessons I will never forget. As I look back, I feel grateful for everything I learned over the past summer and better prepared to build on my knowledge about economic development as a set of tools used to fight poverty.
Internships in Buenos Aires
Mike Sit
My experience to Cape Town was absolutely amazing. I was able to gain experience in the microfinance industry, indulge myself in culture, and gain new perspectives through the relationships I developed. At the company I volunteered with, I was given the opportunity to help host workshops at townships, review business plans for potential microfinance institutions (MFI), research potential sources of funding, and talk to a plethora of amazing individuals that have contributed to the MFI industry. These experiences not only engaged and challenged me, but I had to adapt and expand my current perception. Throughout my time I engaged in many Connect-123 organized activities that ranged from drinks nights and cultural outings, to outdoor activities. With the unheralded amounts of activities, it was difficult in deciding what I wanted to do within my short 3 month term. The friends and relationships I developed in Cape Town are lifelong, and the experience is beyond words. Through my experience I would recommend and encourage others to take the opportunity to travel and learn, especially with the supportive staff Connect-123 offers.
Internships in Cape Town
