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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Destination

Opportunity

Caitlin Friel

Law Intern | Cape Town
Law Society of Ireland
17 November 2010

I had just qualified as a solicitor in Ireland and I decided to take a few months off and go travelling. I had always wanted to volunteer abroad and through a friend at home I made contact with Connect-123. From the start Connect-123 was extremely helpful. They found a position for me with an organisation founded to deal with the high levels of sexual harassment in South Africa’s rural farming communities. The organisation raises awareness of the prevalence of sexual and domestic violence in the Western Cape. During my time with them, we, along with other organisations made a submission to the Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth, Children and People with Disabilities on the lack of implementation of the Domestic Violence Act. The joint written submission was submitted to Parliament on the 26th October, 2009 and the oral submission to Parliament took place on the 29th October, 2009. My host organisation brought a beneficiary along to tell her story of how she tried to access the law to protect her from domestic violence and how it failed her. Her story was powerful and had a greater effect on Parliament than we could have ever imagined. It is our hope that steps will be taken to improve the implementation of the Act and protect the most vulnerable members of society. I had the most amazing experience in Cape Town. Not only did I get a chance to work with a great organisation, I also met amazing people who are truly inspiring. Cape Town’s setting is absolutely stunning. It is surrounded by the ocean and has the breathtaking Table Mountain right in the city. There is so much to do in the city, from high adrenaline activities and hikes up Table Mountain to chilling out on the beach and visits to vineyards, not to mention the great night life on Long St!!! I found Connect-123 extremely helpful and the employees very approachable. They organised events most weeks which was a great way for all the interns and volunteers to meet each other. I would recommend this programme for anyone who is interested in volunteering abroad. I cannot wait to go back and visit the Mother City and catch up with all the friends I made over there.

Internships in Cape Town

Brandon Pierson

Education Volunteer | Cape Town
Keuka College, Graduate
11 November 2010

Knowing that post graduation I would be in somewhat of a position of limbo before my career as an educator began, I decided to follow my dream of visiting the African continent. After a year of research, I finally found a program that seemed to fit my personality and needs in volunteering abroad; Connect-123. I was impressed with the communication throughout the process and the eagerness in having me become a part of their program. Melanie did a fantastic job placing me at ‘The Shine Centre’, a literacy based organization, teaching English to disadvantaged youth. Once I arrived, I realized I had extra time in my day and I wanted to do more – Melanie then put me in contact with ‘Home From Home’ which allowed me to spend time with six of the most remarkable children in the world! One cannot plan or anticipate everything that could happen in life – let alone some 7,000 miles away from home; however, the staff at Connect-123 in South Africa; Melanie, Kelly, Eimear, Mary, and Gabby all assisted in making Cape Town, South Africa a home away from home. Through various networking events and additional volunteering experiences, I became lifelong friends with individuals from around the globe – including some of the most inspirational and amazing people in South Africa! I quickly learned that a child’s smile speaks volumes to the perseverance, hope, love, and beauty of South Africa!

Internships in Cape Town

Michelle Adler

Education intern | Cape Town
Head of Administration and Logistics, Equal Education
10 November 2010

Equal Education has been working with Connect-123 for the past 2 years. We have had a range of fantastic volunteers coming through our organisation and have really benefitted from the time that they have spent with us. I feel that all of the interns who have come and gone from Equal Education have experienced something unique and have had an opportunity to see grass roots activism at its best and contribute in a valuable way to our success. We hope to continue this relationship for many years to come.

Internships in Cape Town

Grant Littke

Director of Field Experience, James Madison College | Cape Town
Michigan State University
3 November 2010

I’ve been involved in developing and administering international internship programs in a variety of locations around the world for the last ten years, and have found them to provide transformative opportunities for student engagement with local issues, in local organizations, and with local peers. We began working with Connect-123 in Cape Town during the 2008-09 academic year, and sent our first students to Cape Town the following summer. Rarely have I seen a program come together so quickly and so seamlessly.  Connect-123′s staff are very responsive, professional, and attentive both to the needs of students, and of administrators. Moreover, the internship placements are of the highest caliber, and the placement process involves extensive communication with the students from the time of application to their arrival in Cape Town (very unusual compared to other internship providers, and very helpful from a student perspective).  The accommodations are high quality and safe, and perhaps best of all, incredibly affordable. With Connect-123′s offices in the same building, on-site communications with students (whether about internship issues, health and safety, cultural adjustment, or housing) are quick and easy to arrange. I can’t recommend Connect-123 highly enough!

Internships in Cape Town

Anna Maderner

Project Coordinator | Cape Town
Nösnäsgymnasiet Stenungsund, Sweden
2 November 2010

In Sweden and the rest of the EU we have the opportunity to apply to send out our professional students on internships to other countries. Before it was mainly within Europe, but a few years back in Sweden we were also given the possibility to seek money for pupils to travel to countries outside of the EU to carry out internships. I was looking for new contacts abroad and the choice fell on South Africa.  After many long hours in front of the computer Connect-123’s homepage turned up.  Steven contacted me and we began planning for a possible collaboration. I applied for money for a preparatory visit and one year after the initial contact was created a colleague and I had the opportunity to visit Cape Town for a week. We loved everything about Cape Town immediately; the city, the people, the weather, and the food. During this week, Connect-123 took good care of us and Melanie showed us around potential host placements for our students. We also did a few visits to Robben Island, Stellenbosch and Cape Point. When we returned home a new application was written for students at our school.  The application was for students to carry out their internships in Cape Town.   The application came back and it was granted for seven students from vocational programs. Finally, in October 2010, seven students from six different programs, the hotel and restaurant-, child-and leisure, industry-, construction-, trade- and apprenticeship programs and a colleague and I were on our way to Cape Town.  Connect-123 did a fantastic job at providing internships according to students ‘ abilities and wishes.  I have from the first contact felt a big confidence in Connect-123 and the work that they do to provide for the students. Their safety was of course one of the big issues before we sent students abroad and the concept with the Connect-123 housing in the Perspectives apartment building where the students stay, is of course one of the big advantages. The students also had great internship placements such as our two construction students who worked in the Township of Philippi, helping Melvin and his boys to build houses for the people who live there. We had two of our girls working at a Children’s Hospital which has given them a lot of laughs but also a lot of sorrow. Our Industry student helped out at a center for homeless people that were able to get a three month education in, for example welding.  We also had two students from the service sector and one of them worked at a Backpackers and got the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. Our kitchen student worked in a five star hotel and learnt a lot about what it is like to work in a place like that. I am really grateful to Melanie and the rest of the people that work at Connect-123 who have given our students this fantastic opportunity to work and see all the great things there are to explore in Cape Town. I know that this will be a memory for life for all of them and I already heard the rumor that at least one of them will be back next year. I will definitely write a new application for new students to get the chance to explore and see this part of the world and take part of the great hospitality and kindness of the people who live in Cape Town.  At last, thank you again Connect-123 for taking good care of our students and giving them a memory for the rest of their lives.

Internships in Cape Town

Callie

Non-Profit Management Intern | Cape Town
University of Iowa
31 October 2010

My internship experience went above and beyond anything that I expected.  I worked for a very successful non-profit dealing with HIV/AIDS. I definitely felt needed in the office where I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to actually participate and work on big projects. I left feeling accomplished and learned in a whole new area. I gained experience in marketing, sales, organizational skills, research and development, and the overall governance of a successful non-profit. It was all that I was looking for in a summer internship, and to complete the picture I made wonderful friends within the office who made me feel a part of the team. Connect-123 made sure I got the internship of my dreams. I explained to them exactly what I was looking for and we worked together to find a successful one. My first few weeks in Cape Town, they called in and made sure I was happy with the work I was doing. They are there to provide you the opportunity to experience a job of your dreams. This was the best summer of my life, thanks Connect-123!

Internships in Cape Town

Jenny Glickman

Social Work Intern | Cape Town
Loyola University, Graduate
24 October 2010

When I signed up to be a social work intern for a children’s home in Cape Town, I was hoping to gain a kind of education that my master’s program simply could not give me. I had just finished graduate school, and wanted to add some tangible “real life” time as another kind of schooling. Little did I know that my experience would provide me with a new kind of learning about social work, and so much more. I often refer to my time in South Africa as “social worker’s boot camp”, because it has been intense, challenging, and more fulfilling than I could ever dream of. I strongly urge any social worker, both those studying and those already in the prime of their careers to come here, and watch their lives and their professional experiences change forever. I can say without hesitation that volunteering via Connect-123 has altered my entire life. I have relocated permanently to Cape Town, gotten work experience that continues to be invaluable on a daily basis, built a community of friends, and have even met my future husband here. None of this would have happened without my time in Connect-123. Of course, I realize that I am the exception to the rule, but I can safely say that even had I gone back to the USA after the four months I originally committed to, my life and my perspective would still be immeasurably altered. When people ask me about the differences between social work in South Africa and the US, I usually say, ‘It’s like a different planet”. Unfortunately, here in Cape Town, the challenges that people are facing are proportionally so much greater than I ever witnessed at home. Socially, economically, racially, culturally—the problems are vast, they are deeply entrenched in society, and often times, the circumstances are quite dire. On my very first day of work, I escorted a girl to the local hospital for an HIV test, where we waited for hours to be seen. She didn’t speak English, and I certainly didn’t speak Xhosa.  Within one morning, I was already exposed to systemic challenges, cultural differences, and healthcare issues. My entire time as a volunteer was as intense, and I found myself on a steep learning curve. However, the joy that I saw in the faces of the girls I worked with, the laughs I had with women of all races and cultures about funny things, the hugs I saw reunited families give one another—these experiences and so many more made my time unbelievable. In addition, the security and comfort that Connect-123 provided me made my experience even better. Knowing that I had a built in community of friends, a team of caring professionals looking after me (from fixing stuff in my flat to helping me with visa issues), and a wonderful home in a fabulous location offered a level of safety that was invaluable. Nearly two years later, some of my closest friends in the world (ranging from London to Sweden) remain those I met from Connect, probably because of the shared experience we had. I literally cannot imagine what life would look like without having participated in Connect-123, and I am a far better social worker and person because of it.

Internships in Cape Town

Karin Andersen-Stortz

Social Work Intern | Cape Town
Dominican University, Graduate
23 October 2010

“The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page”. – St. Augustine The whole of my experience in Cape Town was unforgettable! I arrived ready to complete my academic goals, experience and explore the South African culture. Fortunately, for me, I left with more than I could have planned! I worked as a Program Development Coordinator at a nationally accredited child and youth care program. I was able to assist in streamlining a program for women and children infected and affected by HIV/AIDS.  For me, Social Work is about advocating for those in need and working toward a world with equality and safety. I felt I was working toward these goals while at my internship. Connect-123 assisted me in not only arranging my field placement, but in guiding me through a safe and memorable time in Cape Town. Prior to my arrival, my almost endless list of questions were promptly and effectively answered. I was given directions and guidance on the “how to’s” of staying safely in Cape Town. The social aspect was amazing and a great way to connect with other students from around the world- I made lasting friendships! My time in Cape Town was not only spent successfully accomplishing my internship and thesis, but shark diving, wine tasting, going on safari and enjoying the diverse culture.  It was the best way to both conduct an internship and discover another part of the world! I would not change my experience for anything!

Internships in Cape Town

Christian Tabor

Communications Intern | Cape Town
Drexel University
21 October 2010

South Africa seems like a dream. I can’t believe I was able to experience such a diverse and beautiful country. Connect-123 secured my living space and provided a home base for me while I explored this country. I was placed with an amazing literacy NGO. The work I was able to accomplish with them was extremely rewarding and completely relevant to my Communications studies at Drexel University. On top of all these experiences, I was able to be there during the World Cup. I cannot imagine a better time to see South Africa. It was constantly buzzing with new people and events (and vuvuzelas…). Throughout the four months that I spent in Cape Town, I explored much of South Africa. I was able to do everything from safaris and whale watching up the Eastern Cape, to great white shark cage diving, to spending the day at vineyards then camping out at the wine farms. While all of these trips were extremely exciting and are some of my favorite times in Cape Town, my most memorable moments were some of the weekly outings with Connect-123. It allowed me to meet some amazing people. Once I became closer with these new friends I was able to take those memorable trips and enjoy them even more than if I hadn’t met them through Connect-123. I will treasure this time immensely for the rest of my life. There is no other place in the world like Cape Town, South Africa. I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone interested!

Internships in Cape Town

Marni Salmon

Human Rights Intern | Cape Town
Emory University, Graduate
16 October 2010

I don’t think there are words that can adequately describe my experience in Cape Town. I’ve heard people talk about “life-altering” experiences, and my internship with Connect-123 gave me mine. The work I did over the course of my three-month internship will play a defining role in my professional life. Working in Cape Town not only gave me the opportunity to be a part of an incredible, grassroots civic education project, but I also learned a great deal about the culture and history of Cape Town. Connect-123 is always putting together amazing daytrips, and the staff is always there to help make your time in Cape Town as rich as possible. It is an experience you will never forget!

Internships in Cape Town

Katie McElhiney

Child Life Internship
Northeastern University
11 October 2010

I look back on the four months I spent in Cape Town as some of the best in my life. My internship at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital was truly incredible. Connect-123 was able to set me up working with the hospital’s Child Life team, something that the program actually helps make possible in Cape Town, and it was everything that I wanted and so much more. The people I had the chance to work with are some of the most inspirational I have met in the medical field; they all left lasting impressions that only increase my enthusiasm to go into medicine. Everyone was so eager to help me to learn and experience everything I could during my time volunteering there. I also had the chance to work with really great kids, and many of them had more of an impact on me than I expected. Connect-123 also provided various opportunities to volunteer throughout the community, which I really enjoyed becoming involved in whenever possible. In addition to all of this, they planned social events to help make adapting to the completely new environment as easy and fun as possible. My experience with Connect-123, and in Cape Town, was even more than what I hoped it could have been and is definitely one I will never forget!

Barry Goldenberg

Education Intern | Cape Town
UCLA
26 September 2010

Trying to find the right words to accurately describe my experience in Cape Town during my 7 weeks as a Connect-123 participant would, quite frankly, be impossible to do. I’ve grown immensely as a person during those 7 weeks, experiencing things and emotions that will forever leave an imprint on who I am as a person. Furthermore, my experience in Cape Town was not just another trip but in fact the clichéd “life-changing” experience that we all want to happen! The staff at Connect-123 gave me all the tools to create a wonderful journey—and continued to help me all along the way. Unlike other tours or vacation stays, actually living in Cape Town with Connect-123’s help provides the opportune growing experience; I grew from a guy who just enjoyed the “cool,” tourist aspects of Cape Town to having a very, very deep-rooted passion for South Africa and even more, for the people who live there. Melanie and the entire Connect-123 team are wonderful; they helped me expertly craft my Cape Town experience to one that was uniquely “me.” Even more, Melanie found me the most awesome internship at a school. My internship allowed me to leave my comfort zone and fairytale life in Los Angeles resulting in the most eye-opening and humanizing experience ever. I worked with impoverished kids from the poorest townships outside Cape Town who also happened to be some of the most lively and warmest children I’ve ever been around. Again, my internship experience made my trip so remarkable and I truly cannot thank Melanie enough for her hard work to make my internship so perfect. Truthfully, writing my reflection on this trip is almost like running an impossibly long marathon; there is so much to say about my trip to Cape Town as I’m not I’ll ever be able to give justice to what my experience in South Africa has meant so me. In reality, what makes Cape Town so amazing is that it has something for everyone; there are endless array of tourists attractions that are special only to Cape Town (half that I never made it too), crazy amount of extreme activities like shark-cage diving and bungee-jumping, unique African-infused restaurants with engaging entertainment, and the most incredible night life (coming from someone who lives in LA) if you are into that sort of thing. Anyone can come here and really enjoy the city–and that is awesome in itself as I would encourage any prospective Connect-123 participant to do. The best part about it is Connect-123 gives you all the avenues to do those sort of awesome things. And for the first few weeks I did just that; I went from tourist attraction to attraction, doing all these “fun” things that I genuinely enjoyed. Since I only had 7 weeks to cram everything, Melanie and the staff really helped me find the best activities to do. In result, I’ll always have pictures reminding me of these awesome things–from hikes, to museums, to markets, to safaris, to restaurants, to malls, to rugby games, etc….the list goes on! But what truly makes Cape Town ever more special is when you go deeper into the making of this curious and oft-misunderstood city. What won’t fade will be the feelings I have felt, the things I’ve learned, the emotions I’ve become entrapped in, and again, mostly, the people I’ve met. While I spent the first few weeks as a tourist, I slowly dug deeper into the fabrics of this country and spent the latter few weeks in a different layer of meaning in terms of what it meant to be in South Africa. I began to find real meaning in why I was here. And after all, that is why I wanted to come to South Africa over other “beautiful” places in the world because the dynamics and history of this country is unmatched to any other. And I did just that. Connect-123 gave me extra suggestions to volunteer, gave me information on lectures on social change at various universities, and organized a class to help me learn the local language Xhosa that enriched my experience beyond belief. Again, the best part about their organization is that while they won’t hold your hand while you are there, they are the ideal support group, helping each participant mould his or her experience into something unique to them. Even after my trip, my brain continues to be in a state of insanity, trying to make sense of what just happened the past 7 weeks as my heart is still numb trying to comprehend all that has taken place. My 7 weeks went by so fast, but yet I know now that South Africa will always be a part of me. I once heard the line from a poem that said, “may great kindness come of it in the end.” After 7 weeks in Cape Town, South Africa, great kindness definitely came of my trip, and for that, I am forever grateful to the places and people—including the staff at Connect-123 that made this all possible—who made this such a truly special, heartfelt and exciting 7 weeks.

Internships in Cape Town

Steve Hopwood

Human Rights Intern | Cape Town
University of Oklahoma
26 September 2010

I came to the refugee center in Cape Town expecting to be around every type of person this world has to offer. My goal was just to have overseas experience to have on my cv. I got so much more out of my volunteer experience than simple overseas experience. At the refugee center you sharpen communication skills, research skills, networking skills and gain friends. The best part for me was the people. I’d walk down the street and see friends and co-workers as well as the refugees. Most of the refugees help you more than you help them. Many come in with advanced degrees and are willing to help you as well.

Internships in Cape Town

Mike Cahoon

Social Entrepreneurship Intern | Cape Town
25 September 2010

Spending the summer in Cape Town was the opportunity of a lifetime. When I arrived in June I wasn’t sure what to expect, though only a few hours after landing, I knew this summer would be something to remember. During my three months in South Africa, I worked with an NPO focused on youth empowerment, in helping to develop the business side of their organization. Unlike some of my previous internships, I had the chance to work on a diverse set of projects that required a significant amount of work and responsibility on my part. Looking back at my internship I am glad to know my effort made a direct impact on my host organization. Even though I was busy with my internship, I still had plenty of time to travel, not only around the Western Cape, but Southern African in general. One highlight has to be my trip to Zambia and Botswana to see Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park, a trip I highly recommend to any future Connect intern. When I think about my summer in Cape Town, I am always brought back to the amazing people I met and the lifelong friendships I made.  Connect does just what it claims to do, it connect its interns with their host organization, like minded people from all around the world, and the beautiful city of Cape Town.  I want to thank Eimear and everyone at Connect for organizing a great internship and sharing their amazing home with me.

Internships in Cape Town

Justin Baum

Medical Intern | Cape Town
University of Cincinnati
23 September 2010

My experience in Cape Town over the past summer was my most enjoyable and fulfilling summer vacation I ever had. I was excited that I was given the opportunity to volunteer abroad and pleased with how much I learned. I took a job at a children’s hospital that involved spending time with the patients in order to make their stays more enjoyable. Although any stay at any hospital for whatever reason is most likely not enjoyable in the slightest, I was content with just seeing them smile. I also received the chance to work with the anesthetics department of the hospital, view surgeries, and work on any projects that were available at that point in time. Along with volunteering at the hospital, Connect-123 also informed me of other opportunities during my stay, such as volunteering at SHAWCO clinics, attending lectures from top physicians around the world, and tutoring children at nearby schools. Gabby was extremely helpful throughout the trip as well. She was always there to tell me what taxi to take, where banks are at that will exchange currency, and where to go in the unfortunate circumstance that you acquire pharyngitis in an unfamiliar foreign country. The people there were amazing. There is simply no other words that can describe everyone that I met. I have made many friends from not only all over the United States, but also Canada, England, and South Africa (but that last one is a given). From the Lion’s House guests to the Lion’s House guard and maid, Steve’s DJ skills to Mickey’s basketball skills, Ursula and Professor Thomas at the hospital to every intern and volunteer from Connect-123, and everyone in between, Cape Town was one trip that will be impossible to forget. It was very hard to leave after such a short stay, but I am thankful I got to meet such remarkable people in person and proud to call each and every one of them my friends.

Internships in Cape Town

Brad O’ Neil

Human Rights Intern | internships in cape town
Michigan State University
21 September 2010

I came to Cape Town not knowing what to expect. What I experienced, however, far exceeded any expectations I could have had. Connect-123 not only places individuals in internships that suit their unique interests, they constantly strive to provide their interns with as broad a perspective of Cape Town as they can. From organizing day trips to popular tourist destinations and local events to providing a constant flow of volunteer opportunities, Connect-123 always has the best interests of their interns in mind. I would encourage anyone who is interested in performing meaningful work, learning about different cultures, and interacting with a diverse group of wonderful people to seek out a placement with Connect-123!

Thao Nguyen

Animal Science Intern | Cape Town
University of Florida
20 September 2010

What can I say about my three months in Cape Town? It was absolutely one of the greatest experiences of my life! The people, culture, history, and atmosphere are just amazing! My internship allowed me to work closely with a local veterinarian and do research at a nature reserve situated about 20 minutes from the city center. Although I was having some issues with my internship in the beginning, Mary did an awesome job at finding me another opportunity and in the end everything worked out well! I continued to work at the animal hospital, where I was able to shadow and learn a lot about veterinary medicine, while at the same time, I was doing field work at the reserve to write an updated research report on mammal re-introduction. Every now and then, Mary would call me to see how I was doing and the Connect-123 team was always there for me when I just needed to talk, vent, or had a problem. They also organized some cool events, such as the Wacky Wine Weekend and a cooking class. But all-in-all, I must say that what made this experience were the people that I’ve met. From my co-workers to random strangers on a mini-bus, the Capetonians were so welcoming and genuine. And the friendships I’ve made I will never forget. It was hard to say goodbye, but I hope to say “Hello” to them again one day!

Internships in Cape Town

Kathryn Torres

Director of Outreach | Cape Town
The Shine Centre
17 September 2010

We work with several volunteer programs in Cape Town, but we are always most excited when we get a call from Melanie Martin at Connect 123 in Cape Town! We know that the caliber of volunteers provided will be exceptionally high, and very well thought through:  it is very apparent that the organisation spends a lot of time matching the volunteer to the project. In fact, the volunteers have been so well matched that we have had volunteers return for another year to help us! Connect 123′s professionalism, care, thoughtfulness and dedication to both the volunteer and the program shines through. The orientation that the volunteers are provided with is extremely thorough, and I have heard on the grapevine that the social events that are organised for the volunteers are second to none! An added benefit for us is that the accommodation is very central to everything, ensuring that our volunteers can either walk to the particular Shine Centre that they are volunteering in, or they can catch public transport. We are blessed to have such a well run, and well organised organisation send volunteers to us, and we hope that our relationship will continue for as long as we need high quality volunteers to help us with our program…. Thank you Connect 123 for supporting us so well.

Internships in Cape Town

Jay Lanners

Business Intern | Buenos Aires
Davidson College
14 September 2010

My internship and time spent in Buenos Aires exceeded my expectations. I got the valuable work experience I needed, and the internship certainly helps differentiate my resume. In fact, my internship in Buenos Aires helped me gain pre-admission to IESE, one of the world’s top MBA programs, through the Young Talent Program. In addition, the Connect-123 employees were incredibly helpful and personable. They really care about matching you up with the right internship and housing and making sure that you are having a good time while living in Buenos Aires. It was a great way to spend two months of my summer. I improved my Spanish, got good work experience, made great friends from many different countries, lived in an exciting city, and got a chance to travel to some amazing places.

Internships in Buenos Aires

Prabhat Dhar

Medical Intern | Cape Town
Boston University
13 September 2010

As far back as I can remember, I knew I wanted to go to South Africa and the wondrous city of Cape Town. Being close to wrapping up my undergraduate college career, I felt it would be a great place to spend some time during my summer/their winter before I decided upon my next steps. For this reason, I ultimately landed upon interning through Connect-123 for three months and can honestly say it was the greatest experience I could have ever wished for. Gabby and the rest of the Connect-123 team played an instrumental role in helping me find my internship and then also easily integrating me into my work environment. My internship was at The Children’s Infectious Diseases Clinical Research Unit (KIDCRU) in Tygerberg Hospital, which is one of the largest hospitals situated in the Cape Town area. I primarily worked under the assistance of Dr. Barbara Laughton on a research study aimed at monitoring and comparing the different psycho-developmental tests used for children in South Africa with HIV. Besides analyzing data and authoring a research article that is now in the publication process, I was also able to assist various doctors in the unit on patient visits and ward runs as I got exposed to the many facets of hospital life. As a person who was unsure about whether I wanted to continue into the field of medicine, my internship helped me realize that this type of work is meant for me and I can only thank Connect-123 for helping me obtain such a rewarding opportunity. I urge any person interested in the medical area to get in touch with Connect-123 and look at the possibilities of working in Cape Town, as its an area that has need for such assistance. I believe the work you do will be beyond gratifying and there are definite opportunities for you to help make a difference. Besides my work, I got to attend multiple World Cup matches in both Cape Town and Johannesburg while soaking up the atmosphere of the world’s most popular tournament, which is something I had always dreamt of. I was also able to explore the diverse areas and cultures of Cape Town, which is easily the most beautiful and captivating city I’ve ever been in. In addition, I had the chance to travel to different parts of Africa including Botswana and Zambia, with the highlight being my conquering of the Victoria Falls Bridge as I bungee jumped over the rapids of the Zambezi River. All in all, I’ll definitely remember Cape Town for the work I did, but more importantly for the friends and connections I’ve made. I believe Cape Town is a city that every individual should immerse himself or herself in and there is no better program than Connect-123 that helps one in doing so. I already know I will be back to the mother city once again in the near future and can only hope my second time there was as great as my first.

Internships in Cape Town
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