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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Jesse Linkhorn
This summer I had the opportunity to intern in Shanghai, China, which provided me with one of the wildest summers I’ll ever have. I spent my time interning at a small consulting firm downtown in the city. There, I was provided with a range of tasks that not only had me testing my business savvy (like reviewing financial reports and projecting cash flows), but also had me learn a variety of new things including Chinese GAAP and Tax laws, regular business facilitations, and a whole lot of Mandarin. Prior to this, I had very little knowledge of the language, which made adapting to life in China difficult at first. The challenge however, was one embraced and I have grown immensely not only in my knowledge but in the work environment and personally as well. Connect-123 provided me with the chance to travel abroad and live in a large city, both of which were firsts for me. To this I am forever grateful because they allowed me to experience a whole new culture and lifestyle that I believe has made me a better person. Along with that, they were there with me every step of the way providing support whenever I needed it and checking in out of pure thoughtfulness. This summer allowed me to go to places I never thought I would, meet some of the most kind and genuine people I ever will, and learn some things I never knew existed. I truly believe I have been made better off by this experience and it has instilled in me a desire to further study the culture and learn the language. I am grateful for the opportunity Connect-123 provided me and I hope to travel back to China again (if not for the amazing cuisine) to create many more fond memories. I’m excited for the future and what I’ll be able to accomplish having had this experience.
Internships in Shanghai
Joseph Ross
I really loved the three months I spent working as an intern at a film and media production studio in Barcelona. It was great getting to know everyone in the office and it provided me with the knowledge I’ll need to further pursue a place in the industry. Barcelona is also really a great city with excellent weather, remarkable culture, beautiful sights, and fun and exciting people! There are definitely worse places to spend the summer gaining valuable work experience. As for the guys at Connect-123, I couldn’t have asked for better service from them. They provided me with all the support I could have needed. I didn’t feel alone and it was great to join them on the weekends for some interesting events in and around the city. You really are in safe hands with them as you’re their priority and I hope I’ll get to see them again in the future. It’s such a shame my flight home had been booked the same day they were planning a surfing lesson!
Internships in Barcelona
Anne Bryan
The time I spent in Ireland was such an amazing experience it's hard to put into words how easy it is to fall in love with the city, people and culture that surrounds you. While I was in Ireland I was able to work with and live by locals who welcomed me with open arms. The Connect-123 program found an internship that was tailored specifically for me and my career path. The program placed me in a clinical and laboratory setting which provided me with an invaluable learning opportunity, of which I took full advantage. My Connect-123 roommates and I were regular tourists, frequently traveling to other countries or to the countryside of Ireland, it was hard to find idle time. The live entertainment you will find at any bar, pub, or restaurant is just another reason as to why this city so easy to love. Another benefit of living in Dublin is how easy it is to travel. The Dublin airport was 30 minutes away by a cab and finding cheap plane tickets was not a hard task. We were able to travel to 5 different countries and over a dozen cities, it was truly an experience I won't forget. I will always cherish the time spent and the people I met during my internship in Dublin. I can't imagine a better way to spend an internship while also having the experience of a lifetime. There is no doubt in my mind I would do it all over again the same way if I could, and for that I am forever grateful.
Internships in Dublin
Jennifer Brown
I found my experience with Connect-123 to be really impressive. Not only was I placed with a meaningful organization that provided me with a genuine learning experience, I felt that my program coordinator really cared that I got the most out of that experience. By going through Connect-123, I was in good hands; the organization had a genuine concern for my safety and well being and I trusted them to have my best interests in mind. In addition to connecting me with my internship opportunity, C-123 also provided me with advice where to take language courses, interesting points in the city, and cultural experiences that were really fun. I would recommend to anyone looking to pursue an overseas internship opportunity to go through Connect-123.
Internships in Buenos Aires
Andrew Kirkwood
Three months in Buenos Aires was definitely not how I was expecting to end my gap year, however I can without a doubt say it was worth it. Looking for an internship through Connect-123 made the process a great deal easier and helped me find a place with much more ease than if I was on my own. The help with finding not only the internship but a place to stay made the process much more smooth. Through Connect-123 I was given an extremely convenient package of information on the sights to see, rules for safety and much more this saved me a ton unnecessary trouble on more than one occasion. Being new to a Spanish-speaking country and really the language this really was a completely new experience for me. Thanks to C-123 I was able to meet new people interning with the group and many more from their social circles and create a wide net of new friends. Not only this but the events held by Connect-123 let me experience Buenos Aires completely differently than a tourist would. This allowed me to gain a much greater insight to the culture within Argentina, especially through social events like having a Parrilla (grilling) every other day with my dorm mates. Those looking to learn a language, gain experience, and enjoy themselves while doing so, you’re in the right place.
Internships in Buenos Aires
John Getts
As a recent college graduate looking to gain some international experience and improve my Spanish, Connect-123 offered everything I was searching for. From day 1, my program coordinators prioritized my interests and found the perfect internship. Interning in a finance and consulting firm, I had the opportunity to work in both English and Spanish while assisting local startups with various aspects of the funding process. As for Barcelona, it speaks for itself. The culture, people, food, and of course the beach are all amazing. I will be forever grateful for this experience and I owe much of that to the team at Connect-123.
Internships in Barcelona
Justin Tartamella
Barcelona is an amazing city with such a vibrant and distinct personality that is an absolute treat to go and visit. I would not have been able to have the experience that I now treasure if I did not have the people at Connect-123 helping me along the way. They took my interests and what I wanted to receive out of my time in Barcelona to heart and really tailored a plan around me. I cannot imagine having a better time anywhere else with any other group of people and I will always remember the time I spent there.
Internships in Barcelona
Kayla Elena von Rueti
Connect-123 truly helped me find an internship that was perfect for me. I loved working there and they have an amazing culture and there is a positive and friendly vibe between all co-workers. Even though I was only in the company for a short internship; I have learned so much and feel like I have so much more experience. I would be grateful if I could work here again as they have so many interesting projects and everyone I met at the company is so kind.
Internships in Barcelona
Anthony Perez
Ever since becoming a Global Studies major, I knew that I wanted to work for a non-profit organization outside of the United States. Furthermore, coming from a Latin American background and not picking up the language that well when I was younger, I wanted to improve my Spanish and learn how to communicate efficiently. With the help of Connect-123, I got to do just that in the span of 3 months in the beautiful city of Buenos Aires. Though I did not get to do that much traveling outside of the province of Buenos Aires, I learned so much about the country’s culture, history, politics and society. Evenmore, I got to live in the area of Palermo which was full of foreigners. This allowed me to meet so many fascinating people who I will truly remember for a long time. At my internship, I got to understand why things are the way they are in Argentina, especially Buenos Aires. I got to learn about everything from the Argentine Dictatorship and the law of 2x1, the financial issues troubling the various Villas in the provinces of Buenos Aires, the Armenian Genocide and Diaspora which led to a large migration of Armenians to Argentina as well as other parts of the world, and also the really important Trial for the Right to the Truth which was done so that Argentina could recognize what was done to the Armenians by the Ottoman Empire (Turkey) was indeed a genocide. Although there is still so much more for me to learn about the complex country that is Argentina, with all of this information I can truly say that my mind has expanded and I have left Buenos Aires with more knowledge and wisdom than before.
Internships in Buenos Aires
Emily Mayfield
My three months in Cape Town were the best of my life thus far. As a transfer student taking a gap year, I wanted a rewarding internship experience overseas where I would not only learn a lot about the culture of the country I was living in, but also about myself. Connect-123 set me up with a fantastic internship at an LGBTI non-governmental organization. There, I conducted research on hate crimes legislation and post-rape care and learned about the South African government and how NGOs play an important role in getting legislation passed. I became more educated on South African politics and was even given the opportunity to attend a meeting at Parliament. My coworkers were great, and I became good friends with the other intern I worked with. When I was not working, I was soaking in all the amazing activities Cape Town has to offer. During my three months there, I sky-dived, bungee jumped off the highest bungee bridge in the world, snorkeled with seals, went surfing in the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, went paragliding, hiked mountains, canoed through a national park, went zip-lining, explored the beautiful Garden Route, went on safaris, relaxed on the beach, went on wine tours, and had a blast at several concerts. Connect-123 also organized events, including going to a rugby game, cooking a meal with other interns, eating at a restaurant in Bo-Kaap, taking a sunset cruise, and volunteering at a soup kitchen. Connect-123 did a great job checking in to make sure I was happy at my internship and in Cape Town. They were always there if I had a question or needed something in my apartment fixed. They also made great recommendations for things to do in South Africa and they really helped me make the most of my time there. The other interns with Connect-123 were some of the coolest people I’ve ever met. I definitely developed lifelong friendships and I am already planning future trips with my Connect-123 friends. If you are looking for a meaningful internship experience in one of the greatest cities in the world, I highly recommend looking into Connect-123’s Cape Town program. You will not regret it!
Internships in Cape Town
Kimberly Cohen
My experience with Connect-123 in Cape Town, South Africa has been one of the most valuable takeaways of my education. I was given the opportunity to split my time between two separate pediatric hospitals; an orthopedic, public hospital and an intermediate, public care facility. This pairing of independent care providers allowed me to get a broad understanding of the healthcare system in South Africa. I learned to be resourceful while still providing compassionate and thoughtful care, which is a mindset I can bring back to my nursing education at home. Connect-123 offered endless support through every step of my experience. They made sure my internship gave me every experience that I asked for. In addition to pairing me with a valuable volunteer opportunity, the Connect-123 office planned weekly or biweekly activities for the interns. We were able to go sand boarding one week and go to a traditional African dinner the next. They gave us information regarding upcoming events in the city and travel trips we could access at a discounted price. Cape Town is the perfect city for an array of activities. The city has mountains, beaches, vineyards, gardens, arenas, museums...all in one place! No length of time would be long enough to cover all that you can do there. I wholeheartedly recommend to consider interning in Cape Town, since there is no experience like it.
Internships in Cape Town
Tini Thomas
I graduated from medical school and had some time before moving to the next level, so I decided instead of just sitting and waiting, why not do something useful? I knew I wanted to do an internship in Dublin Ireland so I started googling for agents who could help me find one. I saw a couple but it was just so much work, then I stumbled on Connect-123. They were pretty straight forward with the process. They don't just abandon you when you get to your destination either, Connect-123 had all these events planned and always ready to assist. Thank you so much Connect-123, I met amazing people and enjoyed my time in Dublin. Definitely going back!
Internships in Dublin
Natalie Zahran
I came across Connect-123 when I was researching internships abroad. I decided to look into the program and found out it was a perfect match for my time abroad. I couldn't of had a better experience working with my program coordinator. She made herself available at all hours despite our 6 hour time difference and answered any and all question as complete as she could. Not only was Connect-123 helpful in helping find an internship abroad but also with housing accommodations. They referred me to a few different options until I found a perfect match for what I was looking for. The process made it extremely easy to find flights and transportation that worked for me. I also was extremely pleased with the orientation that they offered. I got to meet another intern as we learned a little about the history in Barcelona, got a complete guide to transportation, and were given helpful tips that would make our time more enjoyable and safe. Everyone at Connect-123 made themselves very accessible in case we need guidance. Also by offering a private Facebook group, interns are able to meet and makes plans to hangout. I would recommend Connect-123 to anyone who is seeking an internship abroad and I would highly consider going through the program again if I saw fit for any future endeavors. Thank you to everyone at Connect-123 who made my experience abroad enjoyable, memorable and safe!
Internships in Barcelona
Lacee Wagner
I can't thank Connect-123 enough for my experience in Dublin, Ireland. I traveled alone to Dublin with not only the hopes of gaining experience overseas, but to learn more about myself. Little did I know that I would come across some of the greatest people I've ever met. Throughout the few weeks of being there, Connect-123 was amazing when it came to showing me around Ireland and making me feel right at home, it's truly the most beautiful place I've ever been. I feel extremely blessed to have been given this opportunity and would recommend it to everyone. I wish I could have stayed longer and can't wait to go back!
Internships in Dublin
Katherine Thomas
My experience with Connect-123 in Cape Town was amazing. I spent the best four months of my life in this city meeting the most wonderful people, eating and drinking at the most fantastic restaurants and bars, exploring countless activities in and outside the city, and learning at two exceptional hospitals. As a nursing student, I was able to gain new nursing skills, shadow during surgeries, participate in ward rounds, help and eventually do my own castings, and learn about a completely different healthcare system than my own. The pediatric patients and other healthcare workers we spent our time with were extremely welcoming, enthusiastic, and dedicated. When we weren’t working, we were taking advantage of the many attractions Cape Town has to offer, with tons of help from Connect-123. The program coordinators helped us with everything from figuring out how to turn on the hot water in our apartment to taking us out on a sunset cruise and sand boarding in the dunes outside Cape Town. I got to know amazing interns from all over the world and made lifelong memories and friendships. Cape Town allowed me to adventure more than I ever have before – we skydived, bungee humped off the highest bungee bridge in the world, traveled along the Garden Route, went on safaris, crawled through caves, hiked mountains, swam in waterfalls, shark cage dove, and paraglided. When our adrenaline wasn’t pumping, we were wine tasting, relaxing at the beach, hanging out on the rooftop pool, swimming with penguins, going to beautiful markets, watching rugby, attending the awesome museums, listening to live music in the gorgeous botanical gardens, and taking in the incredible views. I cannot imagine a more fun and interesting place to intern or a better program than Connect-123 in Cape Town!
Internships in Cape Town
Diya Khullar
My fear was that Connect Buenos Aires might be underwhelming after my Connect Cape Town quickly diminished! As usual, the other program participants, my supervisor, and hospital staff were as welcoming as possible. My internship at the hospital in Buenos Aires allowed me to explore every department I desired, from traumatology to dermatology to urology to emergency medicine. Furthermore, the proximity of the operating rooms made viewing surgeries of all different organs super accessible; I watched surgeries of the eye, uterus, kidney, brain, spine, hip, and so much more! Just like in South Africa, the doctors, scrub nurses, and pretty much everyone at the hospital not only educated us as students, but cared about us as human beings as well. This made forming relationships with the hospital staff and connections across the departments effortless. The culture in Buenos Aires is also extremely warm and inclusive of everyone, making it easy to venture out and make friends with porteños. There are so many beautiful shows and sights to see around the city that getting bored is simply not an option. Overall, I would recommend the Connect-123 experience in Buenos Aires to anyone keen on expanding their knowledge of Spanish while interning in his/her desired field!
Internships in Buenos Aires
Jaimie Grace
Connect-123 was an amazing experience that allowed me to live in Dublin and work at an Irish law firm. Not only was I able to experience day to day life in an office, I was able to attend a number of court cases my firm was involved with. Besides an amazing work experience, Connect-123 gave me the opportunity to travel around Ireland and other parts of Europe. I can honestly say this was one of the best experiences of my life!
Internships in Dublin
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.
Internships in Dublin
Kiera Collins
I decided to intern abroad in Cape Town, South Africa for my last semester as an undergraduate, and I can honestly say it was a decision that has forever changed my life, in the best way possible. I came to South Africa with high hopes and my experience has far surpassed them! From waking up to the most beautiful view every single day just out my bedroom window to walking with lions and diving with great whites, I have experienced things that I never thought possible. Connect-123 was there every step of the way from beginning to end, always available to help when needed, and making sure each person’s internship is what he or she hoped it would be. I have met amazing people, made once in a lifetime memories, and absolutely fell in love with Cape Town. If you are reading this review, and considering Connect-123, I am so jealous of you - I cannot recommend it enough. If you have the chance to go to South Africa - DO IT! I promise you will not be disappointed. South Africa will forever hold a piece of my heart, and I am certain it will steal a piece of yours as well. I cannot wait for the day that I come back. No one can describe the beauty of Africa through words and do it justice, to truly understand and appreciate this amazing continent; you must experience it for yourself.
Internships in Cape Town
Chris Lawson
I am a pre-med student at Northeastern University who traveled to Buenos Aires and worked at a hospital for three months. My time in Buenos Aires was amazing. I got to see and do so much at the hospital. All of the doctors were extremely friendly and taught me a ton. Argentina in general was great. I got to travel to many other great places. Overall, I had a great time.
Internships in Buenos Aires
