Medical Internships in Cape Town

I came to Cape Town because VACorps offered something I had struggled to find elsewhere: the opportunity to gain meaningful clinical experience over the summer. With school, research, and other commitments during the academic year, it had been difficult to find a short-term placement without prior clinical experience. This program felt like the perfect way to prepare for medical school while learning in a new environment. I expected to spend most of my time observing medical professionals and helping with basic tasks, but the internship went far beyond that. At a community-based healthcare clinic, I gained practical exposure to patient care, clinical procedures, and the day-to-day realities of working in medicine. I was trusted to learn through observation, guided practice, and direct engagement with healthcare professionals. The experience exceeded my expectations and gave me a much clearer understanding of clinical medicine. I am incredibly grateful for the skills I developed, the responsibility I was given, and the opportunity to learn much more than what I expected.

Participating in an internship with VACorps in Cape Town was the highlight of my gap year. I was drawn to the city for its natural beauty and vibrant culture, but the experience exceeded all of my expectations and quickly felt like a second home. The program provided a strong sense of support while still allowing for independence, and the combination of a meaningful internship, cultural activities, and a close-knit group made it incredibly special. The orientation period was a standout, helping us settle in, explore the city, and build strong connections from the start. During my time here, I completed a medical internship in a community-based healthcare setting, where I shadowed in a fast-paced emergency care environment. I gained valuable hands-on experience and worked closely with doctors who became important mentors. Being involved in real clinical work allowed me to truly envision a future in medicine and reaffirm my passion for this path. Some of the most memorable moments came from working in high-pressure situations and taking on real responsibility, which helped me grow both professionally and personally. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to live independently, work toward my career goals, and experience life in such an inspiring city. This experience has had a lasting impact on who I am, and it is something I will carry with me moving forward.

When choosing where to spend my gap year, I wanted a place that would feel completely different from anywhere I had been before, while still offering meaningful learning opportunities. VACorps not only met those expectations but exceeded them. During my time in Cape Town, I was able to learn more about myself while also exploring my interest in medicine and gaining experiences I would not have had back home. Through my internship at a community-based healthcare setting, I had the opportunity to take part in hands-on learning, observe procedures, and engage with patients in a real clinical environment. These experiences helped me better understand what a future in medicine could look like. I also discovered that I am especially interested in more specialized and fast-paced areas within the field, particularly when working with children. Outside of the internship, the VACorps program organized weekly activities that allowed us to explore the city and learn more about the local culture. From outdoor adventures to community visits, these experiences made my time in Cape Town even more meaningful. I am incredibly grateful for this experience and how it has helped prepare me for both my future career and the next steps in my journey.

I really loved my experience with VACorps. Moving to a completely new environment was something I was nervous about, but the program made the transition feel smooth and comfortable from the start. The weekly activities were always fun and engaging, and a great way to explore the city and connect with other students. I chose this program because I wanted hands-on experience in the medical field before starting college and deciding on my major. During my internship at a community-based healthcare clinic, I learned a lot by observing doctors and interacting with patients, each with their own unique experiences. As my first experience in a clinical setting, it gave me a clearer picture of what a future in medicine could look like. I also found it really fulfilling to contribute in any way I could and felt a strong sense of purpose through the work.

I decided to come to Cape Town as an opportunity to gain valuable experience, broaden my perspective, and better understand how different communities function. I was especially interested in working hands-on in the medical field and supporting underserved communities. During my internship with a community-based healthcare organization, I had the chance to work closely with medical professionals and actively engage in clinical work, which gave me a much deeper understanding of how healthcare operates in practice. While I came here focused on developing my academic and career interests, I did not expect to have so much fun or make such meaningful connections. The people I met both in the workplace and among the other interns brought diverse perspectives that I learned so much from. This experience became a perfect balance of professional growth and personal enjoyment, and it will definitely be one of the highlights of my gap year.

I decided to intern in Cape Town because I wanted to explore a new country in a way that would push me outside my comfort zone. I expected to be challenged while working at Retreat Clinic, but I couldn’t have imagined the many ways I would grow and change beyond my internship. My main goals were to experience different areas of medicine and to gain a clearer understanding of which path might be the best fit for my future career. I truly believe I achieved that—I received the shadowing experience I needed to better understand my aspirations in medicine. Outside of my internship, I’ve loved exploring everything the Western Cape has to offer, from the Garden Route and city outings to the stunning nature surrounding Table Mountain. The relationships I’ve built, the culture I’ve experienced, and the hands-on clinical work I’ve done have all come together to create memories that will last a lifetime. I’ll miss watching the sun rise over Table Mountain every morning, surfing in Muizenberg, and enjoying daily adventures with my roommates and VAC friends. Although I’m sad to leave, spending eight weeks living in Observatory has given me the chance to truly experience all that Cape Town has to offer. Thank you to VAC for the weekly events and constant support—and a special thanks to every wonderful person I had the opportunity to meet. Onward and upward!

I loved interning in Cape Town because it allowed me to experience life as a local. Living in Obs gave us a real sense of the city’s culture, while still being close enough to explore everything Cape Town has to offer. We took full advantage of that and travelled to many of the places we’d only heard about before coming here. Working at the Khayelitsha Site B Clinic was one of the most impactful experiences I’ve ever had. Getting to know the nurses, doctors, and patients was such a privilege. The doctors were incredibly kind and eager to teach, and I was able to take part in many hands-on activities that deepened my understanding of medicine. Beyond the clinical experience, I gained valuable insight into the challenges people face in accessing healthcare and how vital free clinics are in the townships. I also learned a great deal about myself—about the specialties that interest me most, the types of patients I connect with best, and how to be more confident and assertive when communicating with other healthcare providers. This was truly an amazing experience, and I’m so sad to be leaving!

My experience in Cape Town was truly unforgettable. I’m incredibly grateful to the entire VACorps team for their kindness and support throughout my stay. From day one, they made me feel welcome, safe, and part of a community. The internship itself far exceeded my expectations. I loved being able to work hands-on with patients and learn about medicine in under-resourced township communities. This experience helped me achieve my goal of gaining real-world clinical exposure while deepening my understanding of healthcare challenges in these settings. I also learned to navigate language barriers—something I encounter at home—and now feel far more confident communicating across them. Beyond the internship, I had the chance to explore Cape Town’s many wonders—from the mountains and ocean to its incredible food and vibrant culture. I learned so much, gained valuable professional experience, and felt that my work made a meaningful contribution. Overall, my time in Cape Town with VACorps was an experience I’ll always cherish. I highly recommend this program to anyone seeking a rewarding internship abroad and the chance to immerse themselves in one of the world’s most unique and beautiful cities.

I wanted to intern in a dental clinic abroad to gain real hands-on experience—not only for my dental school applications, but also to grow personally and expand my knowledge. I had always wanted to travel to Africa, so I knew I’d be interning somewhere on the continent. South Africa, and Cape Town specifically, offered the perfect mix of vibrance and serenity—mountains and beaches, a lively college-town feel, and countless places to explore! While here, I worked at the Khayelitsha Site B CHC Hospital, specifically in the dental department. During my internship, I gained valuable shadowing hours for my dental school applications, and the experience also fulfilled the global engagement requirement for my degree. I even had the chance to work as a dental assistant, which was incredible. What I’ll remember most, though, are the people. Every doctor, hygienist, assistant, receptionist, and security guard was kind, respectful, and welcoming. I’m so grateful for the amazing connections I made through this experience and proud to call Dr. Sukha and his team part of my dental family. One of my favorite parts of the internship was comforting patients. While shadowing, I was often the hand they reached for when they felt nervous, and being able to help calm their fears—even in small ways—was truly heartwarming. Experiences like these reminded me why I want to pursue a career in dentistry and deepened my appreciation for the human side of care. What I’ll miss most about Cape Town is always having something to do! Whether it was a beach day at Camps Bay, exploring a local market, or hiking a mountain, there was always an adventure waiting. I stayed for just about a month, but I’d recommend five weeks—after orientation week, you’ll still have a full month to work and explore the city, giving you plenty of time to experience everything Cape Town has to offer. One tip for living in Observatory: just like anywhere else, stay aware of your surroundings and make use of all the resources available to you—better safe than sorry. Everyone at VAC was wonderful and clearly cared deeply about their students. The weekly activities were fun and a great way to connect with other interns, especially those living in different houses. I’m so thankful for VAC, particularly for the orientation week—it provided such a thoughtful introduction to Cape Town, covering both its historical and tourist highlights.

Spending the summer in Cape Town with VAC was the best decision I’ve ever made. I can say that without hesitation. I was able to shadow psychiatrists for over 300 hours—an opportunity that simply doesn’t exist where I’m from. Building relationships with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare workers taught me how to apply the concepts I’ve studied throughout my life. I learned that providing care is as much an art as it is a science, and I gained so much wisdom from the Sisters, physicians, and managers I worked with. A special thank you to Sister Hendricks, who deserves recognition for not only making me feel like family, but for doing the work of an entire mental health department. I heard countless stories and rediscovered my love for piecing them together—thank you, Sister. I realized that the majority of patient treatment depends on the relationship you build with them—not just the medication. It may seem obvious, but if a patient doesn’t trust you or feel comfortable enough to open up, they won’t share the information that leads to healing. Without trust, even the most effective treatment on paper won’t work in practice. I also came to appreciate how exceptional South Africa’s medical training is. Practitioners there encounter nearly every type of illness imaginable, offering a level of exposure rarely seen in the U.S. That experience, so early in my career, was incredibly valuable. Beyond the hospital, I met people from all walks of life and learned about the social realities of Cape Town—gang violence, racism, and politics in the townships that often prevent access to care. I witnessed intense trauma cases, from stab and gunshot wounds to emergency births, and I even had the privilege of helping three beautiful children enter the world. As if that weren’t enough of a life-changing experience, Cape Town itself is the most beautiful and diverse place I’ve ever been. The people, food, music, art, city life, hiking trails, countryside, and beaches—it’s everything I love in one place. My highlights outside of my internship include bungee jumping, Broke Klubhouse, hugging elephants on the Garden Route, meeting monkeys at World of Birds, Chapman’s Peak, getting a tattoo and piercing in Obs, trying every restaurant and vintage store I could find, braving the winds on Table Mountain, exploring farmer’s markets, and watching the sunset from a cruise. There’s so much to do—you’ll feel you’ve seen it all, but you’ve only just begun. My advice? Be open, but stay cautious. Cape Town is breathtaking, but it also requires awareness. Stay for 1.5–2 months if you can—you’ll experience so much more. Don’t waste time at the mall; there’s too much to see. Write everything down—you’ll want to look back and relive it. Build meaningful connections at your internship site and cherish them; they’re what make the experience unforgettable. Lastly, I’d be remiss not to mention the wonderful people and fellow interns I met. Everyone was so funny, open, and ready for adventure. I was lucky to live at 73 Arnold—thank you all for the memories and for making every moment outside the internship unforgettable. A special thank you to the VAC staff, especially Loyiso, Kholi, and Kus—you made Cape Town feel like home, even thousands of miles away. I miss all of you already.

I chose Cape Town for my internship because of its endless activities and opportunities! I was also drawn to the unique intersection of cultures and people. What I loved most about Cape Town? The people, the food, the activities—honestly, everything! During my time at Retreat Healthcare Clinic, I gained invaluable personal and professional experience. Being immersed in a different healthcare system, with its own benefits and challenges, allowed me to witness firsthand how it operates while shadowing doctors and nurses. The staff at the clinic were incredibly kind and helpful, always taking the time to teach me and answer my questions despite their busy schedules. Some of the most memorable moments included witnessing a birth, speaking with patients and healthcare professionals about their experiences, and, of course, holding all the adorable babies! What I’ll miss most about Cape Town? My friends at VAC ?, the amazing food, and the breathtaking hikes. Eight weeks was the perfect amount of time for my internship, but I was so sad to leave—I would have loved even more time here! The weekly VAC activities were a highlight, allowing us to explore the city’s top attractions with our group, without the hassle of planning. Plus, I had plenty of free time on weekends, which I used to take unforgettable trips to Kruger National Park and the Garden Route. Above all, I’m incredibly grateful for the VACorps staff and the team at Retreat Clinic for their generosity, warmth, and kindness.

I chose to intern with VA Corps to gain valuable experience in medicine. As a pre-med student focused on cultural awareness in healthcare, being immersed in South Africa's healthcare system was both educational and eye-opening. At my internship site, I connected with the staff and learned a great deal from their unique perspectives on medicine and patient care. I encountered a variety of trauma cases, child deliveries, vaccinations, and more. My time at the Retreat Clinic has given me a broader understanding of medicine and enhanced my medical knowledge overall. I particularly enjoyed working in the Maternity unit, where I had the incredible opportunity to witness two births. Building relationships with both the staff and patients allowed me to learn a lot, and this experience reaffirmed my passion for women’s healthcare. In addition to my internship, I thoroughly enjoyed exploring Cape Town with the friends I made through VA Corps. The Friday activities, ranging from wine tastings to surfing, provided fantastic opportunities to see the city and connect with other interns. I also spent time hiking, shopping, and trying a variety of new foods! My time in Cape Town helped me form friendships and create memories that will last a lifetime!

My internship experience with VACorps has undoubtedly been one of the best experiences of my life. Volunteering at Khayelitsha Clinic (Site B) was a unique opportunity that deepened my passion for medicine and confirmed that I’m on the right career path. Beyond my work, I got to explore new things around the city, which made the experience even more enriching. Being placed in the Mental Health unit was especially valuable, as it will help me earn school credit and gave me the chance to develop skills I wouldn’t have gained elsewhere. One of the highlights of this trip was the incredible friendships I made. The other interns I met, as well as the VACorps staff, have become like family to me. They made my free time so enjoyable, and I never once felt lonely. I now have friendships that I hope will last a lifetime. The four weeks flew by, but I learned, experienced, and achieved so much. I grew as a person, living and working in another country. While I’m sad that my time in South Africa has come to an end, I’m leaving with a heart full of love and admiration for this program.

My time in Cape Town has been nothing short of incredible. The mix of unforgettable adventures and valuable medical experience was exactly what I was hoping for when I came here. I worked at a public day clinic, and I feel like I’ve gained a real understanding of how medicine operates differently in South Africa, with plenty of hands-on patient exposure. I’ve learned how doctors here adapt to limited resources and how the community faces the challenges of infectious diseases and the high prevalence of trauma. The doctors were always more than willing to teach us about their treatment approaches, and they gave us many opportunities to help out where appropriate. I’ve gained a new perspective on how medicine works in a developing area and how communities find ways to cope with limited resources. I’ll take this experience back to the States, as it’s really broadened my overall understanding of the field. As for my experiences in Cape Town itself, VAC provided amazing opportunities to explore and learn about the city in ways I couldn’t have done on my own. Kus and Kholi have been incredible directors, and I’ll miss them and the program so much. Thank you all again for this amazing opportunity!

I’ve always wanted to go to Africa and gain more clinical experience before applying to medical school and VACorps was the way to achieve both! I learned that medicine and traveling is my passion and I will continue to pursue both. I was able to build a strong relationship with a doctor and see procedures I’d never seen before! Thank you, VACorps!

My time in Cape Town has been nothing short of amazing thanks to the VACorps staff. The staff assisted with everything that was needed and welcomed us with kind, generous open arms. I chose Cape Town out of other internships because of the truly diverse environment that I would experience here compared to other internships. The people I came in contact with every day had such interesting cultures that introduced me to other people’s way of life which will help me with trying to discover more about other people with my career as I go back to study medicine in America. My experience in the medical field here at a local medical clinic was such an eye-opening experience getting to learn about their practice of medicine and teach me so many lessons that I will use for the rest of my life while also making some life-long friends with the staff. Truly blessed to have had an experience like this.

My time in Cape Town exceeded all of my expectations. I did a medical internship in Cape Town at a community health clinic. In my short five weeks in Cape Town, I learned so much from all of the doctors. From draining lungs to understanding how to suture, this internship definitely solidified what I want to do with my future. Cape Town has brought me countless memories, experiences, and many friends. I am so thankful for everything VACorps did for me, and I will definitely be back to visit my South African family. This experience definitely solidified my future career path.

I heard about VACorps from my friends and wanted to go with them. I’ve always heard Cape Town is a beautiful place, and I wanted to learn how the medical world worked here. I loved meeting the people most. I loved shadowing doctors, too. I learned that I am capable of more than I thought I was before coming on this trip. I’ll never forget watching my first birth at the clinic. I loved the markets in Cape Town. I will miss the food, the views, and the people. I stayed for five weeks and I would advise others to do the same. It’s a perfect amount of time to be away and get what you need to get done. The staff and the activities were amazing. I’m most grateful for Kus and Kholi from the VACorps team.

As a global health major, I wanted to come to Cape Town because of the diversity, and the developing field of medicine in South Africa as a whole.  I was able to learn a ton from my internship, as I was able to participate in lab work, which is something completely new to me. This involved conducting various diagnostic tests on participants as well as learning about research in general. My goal of being immersed in a foreign health setting was achieved! While here in Cape Town I especially enjoyed the amazing hospitality of the South African people. The individuals that I met both at work, or out on the town were really what made this place so special to me. Perhaps the best example of this was on my last day of work, while my coworkers and I enjoyed a celebratory cake, they all gave me hugs and were singing my name as they told me how I will be missed. I was here for about two months and will miss the South African people more than anything. It is such a happy and joyful culture compared to what we have back home. People here rarely seem to stress and are always looking to have a good time. I think that two months was the perfect amount of time for me, and if others were coming I would advise them the same. The VACorps staff are truly wonderful. So helpful in all situations, as well as knowledgeable and caring. Never mind the fact that they are all so much fun to hang out with on the Friday activities! They were some of my favorite people that I met here in SA and I could never speak highly enough of them. They are the best part of VACorps, and took us out on wonderful adventures and taught us all about the culture we came to be a part of.

VACorps was an experience that I wouldn't trade for anything. I was assigned to work at a government health clinic, and not only did Vacorps support me through the logistics of my time there, but they also helped me with the emotional and community side of it. I grew professionally, personally, and emotionally. This internship helped me to see the larger picture of the world and to understand medicine on a deeper level. Cape Town is full of amazing people, and this element of the experience made my time here so wonderful. Three months in this City is not enough and I am confident I will be back soon!