Public Health Internships in Cape Town

I had a really great time in Cape Town. During my internship with a public health research organization, I felt welcomed from the start, everyone was incredibly kind and supportive. I spent much of my time working on data cleaning and learning more about the projects the team was involved in, which I found really interesting. I also loved living in Cape Town. The city is beautiful, and there is always something to do, from hiking and enjoying the views to experiencing the nightlife. I’m especially grateful for the VACorps weekly activities and culture series, which gave me the chance to explore new places and learn more about the city. It’s an experience I’ll truly miss.

I chose Cape Town because I wanted an experience completely different from anything I had done before. Being here for two months exceeded my expectations. I made lifelong friends, had unforgettable experiences, and grew a lot as a person. During my internship at a public healthcare clinic in one of Cape Town’s suburbs, I had the opportunity to rotate through different departments and observe medicine firsthand. The doctors were welcoming and always willing to answer questions, and conversations with both doctors and patients became the most meaningful part of the experience. These interactions helped me understand the importance of culture, communication, and connection in healthcare. Outside of the internship, Cape Town itself was incredible. The VAC staff were welcoming and supportive from the moment I arrived, which made me feel right at home. The weekly activities and cultural evenings were always fun and insightful, and I learned something new each time. Overall, this has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. It strengthened my interest in medicine and showed me how important communication and support are in providing even the most basic patient care.

I chose Cape Town because VAC offered public health placements for internships. When I was researching options for my gap year, I found public health opportunities difficult to come by, so VAC’s program made the decision easy. I wasn’t familiar with Cape Town—or Africa, for that matter—but I was excited to travel somewhere completely new and immerse myself in a different culture. I’m so glad I made that choice, because I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here. During my internship, I learned a great deal about the research process, including applying for ethics approval, communication, recruitment, and data analysis. I also really enjoyed exploring the variety of research projects going on at my internship site. It was fascinating and inspiring. Outside of my placement, I met wonderful people through VAC and even better friends through Rent-A-Room. Although not all my Rent-A-Room roommates were VAC interns, we bonded instantly, and I’m sure they’ll be lifelong friends. Cape Town also helped me reconnect with my sense of adventure, my love for the outdoors, and my joy in exercise. As a former collegiate athlete, my relationship with working out had often been intense and complicated. But by joining run clubs (like Tuesday Trails and Running Late Club), hiking with friends, and taking long walks on the promenade, I was able to rewrite that relationship into a healthier one which is something I’m excited to carry back home with me. Some of my favorite memories include traveling to Kruger National Park and along the Garden Route. Both unforgettable experiences that I highly recommend to any future interns. Other highlights were visiting Boulders Beach, Cape Point, and riding the Wine Tram. I stayed for three months, which felt like the perfect amount of time for me. I’m sad to be leaving, but I also feel ready to return home grateful for the memories, skills, and friendships I’ll take with me.