VAC Internships Cape Town

I loved my time in Cape Town. Two months was a great amount of time, although I think staying for two and a half to three months would have allowed me to experience even more than I did. I really appreciated how the VACorps program was structured, it provided plenty of support while still giving us the freedom to explore independently. The two-week orientation was a highlight, and I made friendships that I know will last well beyond my time here. From day one, the VACorps staff made me feel welcomed, comfortable, and supported. My internship with a community-based organization gave me the opportunity to learn by observing experienced professionals and seeing how their work made a difference. One of the biggest lessons I took away was that you don't need to have the biggest role to make a meaningful impact. That realization gave me a new appreciation for teamwork and the importance of every contribution, no matter how small it may seem.

Spending my summer in South Africa was one of the most rewarding decisions I have made in my academic journey. I grew in ways I never expected and left Cape Town feeling more ambitious, culturally aware, and excited about a future focused on helping others. VACorps placed me in an internship that closely reflected my goals, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity. Some of my favorite memories include learning about South Africa with a local university professor, going on safari in the Eastern Cape, and attempting to finish an entire Gatsby in one sitting. What I will miss most, however, are the people and the relationships I built during my stay. Cape Town is unlike anywhere else, and my biggest advice would be to appreciate every moment, the mountains, the people, and every experience in between. I already know I will want to return one day.

I chose Cape Town because of its beautiful landscapes and diverse culture. During my internship with a community-based organisation supporting older adults, I was welcomed into an inclusive and compassionate environment. Over time, I realised that I had been placing too much pressure on myself and began to recognise my own strengths and capabilities. Some of the most memorable moments were taking part in social activities with older community members and visiting different locations for advocacy training. I valued working with an organisation that prioritised dignity, care, and meaningful human connection. The experience helped me overcome self-doubt and strengthened my connection to the career I hope to pursue. Outside of my internship, I loved Cape Town’s beaches, oceans, and cultural diversity, and I will especially miss the wonderful friends I made. I stayed for two months, but I would recommend staying longer to make the most of the experience. My advice to future interns is to remain open-minded while discovering the city. The VACorps staff were consistently welcoming, encouraging, and supportive, and the activities provided a great way to connect with other interns.

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.

Cape Town was always one of my dream places to be in and also had many qualified places in my department to get experience from. Whenever I run into VAC program by the internet site I saw that this is great opportunity and I wanted to try my chance. After I got my acceptation, VAC team was very helpful throughout the process. They explained the process very well and were by my side every step of the way. I loved everything about Cape Town but if I be specific about it I loved the culture, people, food, nature and city activities. Every moment was full of unforgettable memories. I learned a lot of things about myself during my internship and living in Cape Town own my own. I see I can achieve actually a lot more than I expected. I can handle with everything that I run into. Cape Town made me know about myself more and make me grown in every ways. My version before coming to Cape Town and after leaving is so different in a so many good ways and previous version of myself would be so proud for the things that last version of me did. Cape Town gave me peaceful and sincere life. Every people I run into add something to my life. I did a lot of activities that I was proud of myself doing it after as hikings, bungee jumping, surfing etc. I will miss everything about Cape Town it felt like home thanks to VAC team and my friends. But specifically I will miss watching sunset and chat with friends during this mesmerizing views. I stayed for 3 months and I would say 3 months was okay but 4 months would be better and I came on March it was so beautiful. I catch the end of the summer and until june it got a little chill but still we did almost all the outdoor activities that we can do. VAC Staff and weekly activities were amazing I had a lot of fun with them and with the activities and that was the thing I look forward to during week. VAC team were always by my side and never let me feel alone and help to me with everything. I loved the acitivities and cultural nights too because it made us meet with other people and become sincere and also I learned a lot about culture, food, history etc. It was unique and unforgettable experience for me. I suggest to everyone. It will be one of the best time of your life.

Cape Town was always one of my dream places to be in and also had many qualified places in my department to get experience from. Whenever I run into VAC program by the internet site I saw that this is great opportunity and I wanted to try my chance. After I got my acceptation, VAC team was very helpful throughout the process. They explained the process very well and were by my side every step of the way. I loved everything about Cape Town but if I be specific about it I loved the culture, people, food, nature and city activities. Every moment was full of unforgettable memories. I learned a lot of things about myself during my internship and living in Cape Town own my own. I see I can achieve actually a lot more than I expected. I can handle with everything that I run into. Cape Town made me know about myself more and make me grown in every ways. My version before coming to Cape Town and after leaving is so different in a so many good ways and previous version of myself would be so proud for the things that last version of me did. Cape Town gave me peaceful and sincere life. Every people I run into add something to my life. I did a lot of activities that I was proud of myself doing it after as hikings, bungee jumping, surfing etc. I will miss everything about Cape Town it felt like home thanks to VAC team and my friends. But specifically I will miss watching sunset and chat with friends during this mesmerizing views. I stayed for 3 months and I would say 3 months was okay but 4 months would be better and I came on March it was so beautiful. I catch the end of the summer and until june it got a little chill but still we did almost all the outdoor activities that we can do. VAC Staff and weekly activities were amazing I had a lot of fun with them and with the activities and that was the thing I look forward to during week. VAC team were always by my side and never let me feel alone and help to me with everything. I loved the acitivities and cultural nights too because it made us meet with other people and become sincere and also I learned a lot about culture, food, history etc. It was unique and unforgettable experience for me. I suggest to everyone. It will be one of the best time of your life.

I chose Cape Town because I'd never been to Africa and always wanted to visit. I thought interning and traveling around South Africa would be a truly unique experience — and it was. I loved learning about the different cultures here and the lived experiences of the people I met along the way. My internship gave me a deeper understanding of how the medical and mental health systems work in South Africa, and the models and practices used in the field. Beyond the internship itself, I learned so much about the world and about myself. One of the biggest highlights was traveling to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and encountering an elephant in the wild-- an experience I'll never forget. I also loved living near the beach and being fully immersed in the day-to-day rhythm of life in Cape Town. The support from the VAC team made all the difference. Knowing I could reach out anytime I needed something gave me real peace of mind throughout the program. I'm so grateful for the whole experience.

I chose Cape Town for this experience because of the incredible opportunities and the chance to gain a new perspective in a completely different environment. It gave me a broader worldview and allowed me to be part of something meaningful. What I will miss most are the people, their kindness and welcoming nature, as well as the city’s incredible natural beauty. I had such a fun and fulfilling time here. During my internship with a conservation-focused organization, I contributed to the restoration and maintenance of a natural reserve. It was rewarding to be part of work that not only supports the environment but also creates a space for the community to enjoy and connect with nature.

I chose Cape Town because it offers a unique mix of innovation, nature, and cultural diversity, making it an inspiring place to gain international work experience. I decided to pursue an internship to build practical skills and better understand what kind of work I enjoy in a professional setting. What stood out most was the opportunity to work on meaningful projects while being surrounded by such an incredible city. During my internship with an engineering-focused organization, I gained insight into how complex technical projects come together in practice. I learned how different areas, such as software, electronics, and mechanical systems, work together within a single project. I enjoyed contributing to smaller technical tasks, asking questions, and learning directly from experienced engineers about testing, troubleshooting, and improving systems. This experience helped me understand how ideas develop into real-world applications and strengthened my interest in working in a hands-on engineering environment. Living in Cape Town was equally rewarding. The combination of mountains, ocean, and city life is hard to beat, and I will especially miss the outdoor lifestyle and the friendly people. The VACorps team was incredibly supportive, and the weekly activities were a great way to meet others and explore the city. Overall, the program was well organized and created a strong sense of community, making the experience both enjoyable and meaningful. ​

Participating in an internship with VACorps in Cape Town was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I chose Cape Town because I wanted to step outside of my comfort zone while being in a place that is vibrant, culturally rich, and community-oriented. I didn’t just want to study counselling and mental health, I wanted to experience it in a real-world setting, contribute meaningfully, and grow both personally and professionally. During my internship with a community-based mental health organization, I was trusted with real responsibility from early on. I conducted counselling sessions, supported clients through complex emotional experiences, and worked alongside dedicated professionals. The work was challenging but deeply purposeful, and it helped me build confidence, trust my instincts, and better understand the kind of practitioner I hope to become. Living in Cape Town made the experience even more meaningful. The city’s natural beauty provided balance alongside the emotional intensity of the work, while exposure to different social realities deepened my empathy and perspective. The VACorps team was incredibly supportive throughout, and the weekly activities created a strong sense of community. This experience not only shaped my professional goals but also changed how I see myself and the work I hope to do in the future.

I chose to intern in Cape Town because of its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and breathtaking mountains. I wanted to immerse myself in a new environment while gaining meaningful professional experience for my future. What stood out most to me was the people both the friends I made and my colleagues at a community-based media organization. They truly made the experience special. I will especially miss the sunny weather and everything the city has to offer, from local markets and summer concerts to surfing and hiking. I stayed for three months, which I would highly recommend, as there is so much to experience. During my internship, I focused on improving my public speaking and communication skills. I particularly enjoyed reporting on a workshop focused on media and social impact, where I explored topics like the spread of misinformation. It was a great opportunity to engage with meaningful content and grow professionally. The VACorps team was exceptional throughout my stay. They provided consistent support while still allowing me the independence to grow. Their guidance made the transition into a new country feel seamless, and the weekly activities offered the perfect balance between structure and freedom. Looking back, this experience pushed me to grow both personally and professionally, and I am very grateful for it.

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.

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 had a great experience during my time in Cape Town. I chose the program because of the location, the internship opportunities, and the chance to be part of a group. While I was here, I made the most of everything the city has to offer, hiking, swimming, bungee jumping, and more. During my internships, I worked both in person at a local primary school and remotely with a legal-focused organization. At the school, I enjoyed helping in the classroom by supporting lessons, creating worksheets, and assisting with grading. This gave me a chance to connect with the community and learn more about the local culture. Through my legal work, I gained insight into how policy and history have shaped modern-day Cape Town, which was incredibly interesting and eye-opening. Living with other interns and participating in VACorps activities made the experience even more meaningful. I’m leaving with a deeper understanding of the city’s past and present, a greater appreciation for its natural beauty, and more confidence from stepping out of my comfort zone and meeting new people. I’m very grateful for this experience.

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 chose Cape Town as my internship destination because it felt like the perfect place to grow both personally and professionally. I was able to spend plenty of time outdoors, exploring my active side, while also gaining insight into the business environment, especially through my work with a company focused on commercial real estate. It was a great balance of learning and experiencing something new. What stood out most to me was the kindness of the people I met and the range of experiences I was able to have. The VACorps program provided a strong support system and made it easy to build friendships and feel at home. I also really valued getting to know my coworkers and seeing Cape Town through their perspective. Over time, I noticed myself becoming more confident and more comfortable speaking up for what I want.

​I chose VAC because I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and gain real-world experience in a field I’m passionate about before starting college. I had never worked a full-time job before, so this was a chance to understand what that would be like while also exploring a new city. Cape Town stood out to me as a beautiful place with a rich culture that felt both different and accessible. During my internship with a conservation-focused organization, I worked on restoring a critically endangered ecosystem and supporting environmental education initiatives in the local community. I loved being able to do meaningful, hands-on work and spend time outdoors, even when it meant getting a little dirty and stepping outside of what I was used to. One of my favorite parts was working with local school groups and seeing how excited they were to learn about conservation. I also really enjoyed creating social media content and researching new species, which helped me better understand and appreciate the environment around me. While this may not be the exact path I choose in the future, it gave me a strong appreciation for the work that goes into creating real environmental change. Living in Cape Town was an incredible experience. The summer weather was beautiful, and there were endless opportunities to be outside whether at the beach or hiking. The people were welcoming, and I always felt comfortable and included. The VACorps team was incredibly supportive and easy to reach whenever I needed help, which made a big difference. I also loved the weekly activities, which helped us explore and connect with the city in a deeper way. Overall, this experience taught me so much about myself, my interests, and the kind of impact I want to have in the future.

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 chose Cape Town because I wanted an internship abroad that felt both meaningful and challenging, somewhere I could learn in a new environment while working on real-world issues. I opted for an internship instead of just traveling because I wanted structure, professional experience, and a clearer sense of what I’m interested in long term. Cape Town offered the perfect mix of global relevance, culture, and everyday adventure, and it truly delivered. What I appreciated most was how quickly the work became real and impactful rather than just busywork. Through my internship with a sustainability-focused consulting organization, I gained valuable insight into the professional world while also learning more about myself, especially that I thrive when given responsibility and ownership over my work. A highlight for me was researching and writing my own article on developments in the energy sector, as well as contributing to written content and helping develop a workflow to identify new opportunities more efficiently. I stayed for two months, which felt like a great amount of time, though I would recommend at least 8–10 weeks to fully settle in and build momentum. My biggest advice would be to come with an open mind and say yes to activities early on, it’s the best way to meet people and make the most of the experience. The VACorps staff were supportive and responsive throughout, and the weekly activities were a great way to explore the city and build a sense of community.

I loved exploring the city and finding fun things to do with friends on the weekends. During my internship with a sustainability-focused organization, I learned how to use Canva and helped create a pitch deck. I also spent time in the lab gaining insight into the process behind the work and seeing firsthand how challenging it can be to get a business off the ground. It was inspiring to be part of an initiative focused on reducing plastic use and making a positive impact on both the local community and the environment.

I am very grateful that I chose to participate in the VACorps program. It was supportive while still allowing space to grow independently, which made it a great experience overall. I truly enjoyed my time in Cape Town and found my internship with a community-based organization both meaningful and insightful. One of the highlights for me was interviewing people and engaging directly with different perspectives. Through this experience, I learned a lot about what I do and do not want in my future career, which has been incredibly valuable moving forward.

I was drawn to Cape Town because I wanted to be in a beautiful place while also exploring my interests in a more professional setting. I really appreciated the balance of adventure and exploration alongside meaningful work through my internship. During my time with a community-based media organization, I had the opportunity to produce my own show (huge highlight!), assist with daily presenting, write scripts, conduct interviews, and engage with the public through on-the-ground segments. I also had the chance to attend major national events, which were definite highlights of the experience.

During my time in Cape Town, I was able to connect with other interns, explore the city, and grow both personally and professionally through my internship. I learned a lot, not only about my field through my work with a community-based organization, but also about myself and the people around me. I truly loved my time here, and although it’s difficult to see it come to an end, I will always cherish these memories. One of the most important things I gained from this experience was the confidence to speak up for myself and go after what I feel is important, something I had struggled with in the past.

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.

Cape Town is an incredibly beautiful and scenic place, and spending time here was a welcome change from colder seasons back home. I loved hiking, relaxing at the beaches, and exploring the local restaurants and cafés around the city. Living here also taught me a lot about myself, especially the importance of budgeting and being there for friends when they need support. I will really miss the warm weather, the nightlife, and the late-night conversations and debriefs with friends. During my internship with a sports and community-focused organization, I learned the basics of athletic training and gained a better understanding of how important time management and a willingness to learn are in a professional setting. I stayed for about two months, which felt like the perfect amount of time to settle in and experience the city. The VACorps staff were incredibly kind and supportive, and they helped make the experience both memorable and meaningful.

I chose Cape Town because it was one of the first places that came up when I searched for internships in Africa simple as that! I decided to pursue an internship to help figure out my future career path. During my time here, I interned with a legal organization focused on women’s rights and advocacy, where I had the chance to contribute to meaningful social change. I am especially grateful for how welcoming and supportive my colleagues were throughout the experience. Beyond the internship, I loved Cape Town’s incredible nature and landscapes. I stayed for three months, which felt like a great amount of time, though I would recommend staying at least two months to fully immerse yourself in the experience. The VACorps staff were always friendly and helpful, and the weekly activities were a fun way to explore the city and meet other interns.

I chose Cape Town as a place to work abroad because of its beautiful landscapes and incredible wildlife. During my time here, I had the opportunity to intern with a local seabird conservation and rehabilitation organization, where I helped care for several species, including the African penguin. I loved exploring Cape Town and the surrounding towns, spending time at the beaches and mountains, and meeting the many kind people who live here. The culture and art throughout the city are also truly inspiring. I spent six weeks living and working here, which felt like the perfect amount of time, though I would have happily stayed longer to explore more of the country. One of the most rewarding parts of my internship was working directly with the birds, feeding them, assisting with care, and helping during rehabilitation. A highlight was attending a penguin release along the coast, where I watched several birds I had helped care for return to the ocean. I am especially grateful for the support from the VACorps team, who made the experience even more meaningful and were always there if I needed anything.

It was a great experience with incredibly supportive staff and a wonderful opportunity to explore Cape Town. My internship with a community-based organization offered an insightful and engaging workload, making the experience both meaningful and unique. I have no major recommendations and am very grateful to everyone who helped make the journey so special.

After three months in Cape Town, I can say it has been one of the most meaningful and almost magical experiences of my life. During my time here, I had the chance to see many different sides of the city from its beautiful coastal areas to communities facing real challenges. This experience helped me better understand South African culture, the strong sense of unity among people, and also the realities of inequality and poverty that still exist. Through my internship with a community-focused mental health organization, I gained valuable hands-on experience, including observing mental health assessments, supporting counseling work with a local family, and participating in outreach projects with children in nearby communities. Outside of the internship, exploring Cape Town’s incredible nature and landscapes became one of my favorite parts of the experience. I will especially miss the weekly activities, the unpredictable but beautiful weather, and the amazing people I met along the way. The VAC team made the experience truly special, always supporting us and helping us get the most out of our time in Cape Town.

Cape Town is an incredible place to gain experience working with diverse communities in the field of mental health. During my internship at a community-based mental health organization, I had the opportunity to work with clients from many different backgrounds and see firsthand the realities people face across the city. Despite these challenges, I met some of the most inspiring individuals who maintained a positive spirit and resilience. Working directly with clients helped me gain practical insight that no classroom lecture could provide and played an important role in shaping the direction I want to take in my future career. My time in Cape Town was also made special by the support of the VACorps staff and the experiences outside of the internship. The activities they organized helped me explore the city and its culture, and they were always there whenever support was needed. Living in a city surrounded by nature while sharing the experience with friends from around the world made the journey unforgettable. I am truly grateful for the opportunity and for the chance to grow both personally and professionally.

Cape Town was an easy choice for my internship. Having visited before, I already knew it was one of the most beautiful cities, with great weather and a vibrant culture. During my time here, I had the opportunity to intern with a professional organization in engineering, where I met a range of professionals and made valuable connections. It was a great way to gain experience while learning more about the industry in an international setting. Living in Cape Town was an incredible experience. There is always something to do from hiking and going to the beach to enjoying the nightlife and exploring the city’s culture. One of the best parts was meeting people from all over the world, especially the other interns I lived with. The VAC staff were fantastic and organized fun activities that helped us experience the city in a meaningful way. I stayed for eight weeks, but I would definitely recommend staying longer to make the most of everything Cape Town has to offer.

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.

Interning at a public interest legal organization in Cape Town gave me a new perspective on how human rights law can be used to champion real change. Simple things many of us take for granted, such as access to water or housing, are not guaranteed for millions of people. Through this experience, I saw how dedicated professionals use the law to advocate for communities and work toward meaningful, tangible change. Cape Town is a unique place, with vibrant cultures and always something new to learn. I stayed for 90 days and wished I could stay longer. The people are amazing and the nature is incredible, not to mention the deep history of South Africa and how it has shaped the world we live in today. I am very grateful for the VAC internship placement and the orientation resources that helped me begin this journey. It is truly an experience I will never forget. I especially enjoyed researching the public housing system and how it is funded. The research we conducted from education to climate change showed me how important strong research is in building cases for the future. It reinforced how research forms the foundation for meaningful and lasting change.

I absolutely loved my placement. Initially, I thought I would rotate through a different unit each week, but I ended up spending most of my time in the maternity ward because I enjoyed it so much. During my internship, I observed 23 deliveries and a number of interesting medical cases. I also learned a great deal about how the healthcare system here operates. Overall, the medical officers and professional nurses were wonderful to work with. They are often more direct than doctors and nurses in the U.S., but I came to appreciate that approach and found it to be very effective. I am incredibly grateful for my time in South Africa and will carry this experience with me throughout my future career in healthcare. One of my personal goals in coming to Cape Town was to spend time away from home and learn how to navigate my anxiety in a healthy and effective way. I feel proud that I was able to do that, and it made the experience even more meaningful.

The VAC intern abroad program has opened my eyes to a new way of life. Living in South Africa has been such a blessing in which I am so abundantly grateful for. For the duration of my time in Cape Town, I have felt endlessly supported by the members of the VAC program. Not only was I able to embrace my adventurous side by exploring a whole new city, but I also had the structure and stability of an internship that provided me with direct experience in my field of study. The VAC program set the foundation for the most special experience and memories that will last a lifetime. My favourite memory of my stay in Cape Town was swimming in the ocean for one of the first times. I loved getting to explore the beaches, and I will definitely miss the ocean, the mountains, the sunshine and the palm trees. I feel so lucky to have had such amazing opportunities throughout my time in Cape Town. I would not change anything about my experience. I feel as though I have learned and grown so much in the past 6 weeks. I feel as though I am now ready to embark on the new chapter of my life, and to embrace wherever it is it takes me.

Living and learning in Cape Town gave me the chance to immerse myself in a vibrant culture, work in a setting that pushed me to grow as a clinician, and form connections that I will carry with me long after this rotation. I will always remember the joy and laughter of the children I worked with at Athlone School for the Blind—their determination inspired me every single day. One of my goals was to provide services to underprivileged youth, and I’m grateful that Athlone gave me the opportunity to do exactly that. The students also taught me so much in return. Working with diagnoses I had never encountered before forced me to strengthen my clinical reasoning. I spent time researching conditions, adapting my treatment approach, and thinking critically about what each child needed and why. This pushed me to grow in a way that would not have been possible in a more familiar environment. I also wanted to understand a different health system, so I asked many questions about local hospitals and even visited the OTP clinic while I was here. Seeing firsthand where resources are limited and how challenging access can be for families deepened my perspective on global healthcare and the barriers many communities face. Outside of my internship, the Friday excursions with VAC helped me find balance and space for reflection during an intense learning experience. Culture Nights added another dimension to my time here, offering a deeper understanding of the people, stories, and history of South Africa. The memories of the children, the community, and this breathtaking city will continue to shape me—both as a future physical therapist and as a person.

I am grateful every day that I took a leap of faith and moved to Cape Town. My internship at the Legal Resources Centre has strengthened my commitment to using law as a tool to secure justice and create systemic change. It was a privilege to assist attorneys with case and policy research on issues such as refugee protections, LGBTQ rights, and public housing. I hope to carry forward not only the skills I gained, but also the ethos of advocating for society’s most vulnerable. Throughout my internship, I gained extensive experience in research and memo writing. Some of my favorite projects included analyzing Department of Home Affairs regulations on citizenship application requirements and conducting cross-country research on how courts interpret constitutional guarantees to the right to food. Seeing the real-world impact of these issues on people’s lives reaffirmed my desire to pursue work that meaningfully improves access to justice. VACorps did an excellent job facilitating an immersive experience—from managing day-to-day logistics to helping us build meaningful connections. Through the Culture Series, museum visits, and everyday conversations with locals, I gained valuable insight into a political and social landscape very different from my own, and one shaped by a recent democratic transition. There were no dull moments during my 11 weeks here. Each sunset, hike, beach outing, trivia night, and winery visit has made this an incredibly memorable experience—and has made saying goodbye all the more bittersweet.

I chose to come to Cape Town because I wanted the chance to experience a new culture and enjoy meaningful new experiences. I felt that an internship abroad would help me understand how the health system and health research differ from Australia. During my internship, I enjoyed learning about the various studies my host organization was involved in, what they were researching, and how that research was being carried out. This helped me gain a deeper understanding of the health landscape in South Africa and the way the health system functions. I also received valuable career advice and recommendations from my supervisors, which I will continue to use moving forward. Throughout my time in Cape Town, I met many new friends from around the world and had the opportunity to live independently while gaining meaningful work experience. I grew more confident in myself, becoming more independent and outgoing. Cape Town is a beautiful city with a wide range of activities, which I enjoyed both on my own and with friends.

I had a really great experience in Cape Town over the last couple of months—from the apartments we stayed in, to all the activities both in and outside the program, and of course my internship. I was very happy with where I ended up for my placement, as it allowed me to see so much more of Cape Town than I ever would have on my own. I worked in a school in Athlone and in Camps Bay, giving me the chance to interact with children across different communities and observe the cultural differences throughout the city. The people I met through Sports Hub were incredible—people I will never forget. Knowing that if I come back to Cape Town I’ll have places to stay and familiar faces to reconnect with means a lot. They really welcomed me and made me feel comfortable during my time here. I’m also very happy with VAC. They allowed me to be independent throughout my stay while still offering guidance and opportunities when needed. Everyone I met through the program was fantastic. Overall, I had a unique and amazing experience in Cape Town. There were learning curves and some ups and downs along the way, but it was truly awesome.

This has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will never forget. Spending 2.5 months abroad in South Africa while working at a special needs school has been truly life-changing. I loved having the opportunity to learn what physiotherapy looks like here compared to physical therapy in the United States. I am very proud of how adaptable I became during this internship. The school does not have many of the resources we typically rely on in clinics and programs back home, so I had to be creative with my exercise prescriptions. Each child came with a unique combination of strengths and challenges, which meant tailoring every session to their individual needs—often requiring quick thinking and flexibility. This pushed me to grow as a clinician in ways I hadn’t expected. Living and learning in Cape Town allowed me to immerse myself in a vibrant culture, work in a setting that challenged me daily, and build connections that I will carry with me long after this internship ends. I will always remember the joy, humor, and determination of the children I worked with; their resilience inspired me every single day. The VACorps staff played a huge role in making this experience so meaningful. They were always available—whether we had serious questions or silly ones—and they consistently looked out for us, even helping us find the best deals around the city. Building relationships with them became an unexpected highlight of my time here; they truly felt like family. Outside of my internship, the Friday excursions helped me balance the intensity of my placement with fun and reflection, and Culture Nights gave me a deeper understanding of South Africa’s people, history, and traditions. The memories of the children, the community, and this breathtaking city will continue to shape me both as a future physical therapist and as a person. I am so grateful for everyone who made my time in Cape Town unforgettable—and I will definitely be back!

I chose to intern abroad in South Africa because of its incredible biodiversity. I was also drawn to the blending of cultures, the fashion, and the overall energy of Cape Town. I decided to pursue an internship to support my wildlife conservation studies back home and to gain real, hands-on experience in the field. What I loved most about interning in Cape Town was how accessible everything felt—good food, nature, the ocean, all of it. I especially loved the natural scenery, the food scene, and the jazz culture! My time at the seabird sanctuary is something I will hold very close to my heart. It helped me build confidence in myself as a future wildlife conservation professional, especially since the field is so competitive in the United States. I was able to expand my skills in animal patient care and learn fascinating new facts about marine animal behavior, particularly seabirds. One of my favorite experiences was participating in the African penguin counting census at Stony Point—it was such a unique and memorable day. I’m going to miss the people, the energy, and the warm welcomes the most. My three-month stay felt like the perfect amount of time for me, especially since I don’t get homesick easily. For others, I might recommend eight to ten weeks so there’s enough time to adjust, settle in, and fully enjoy Cape Town. My biggest tip for anyone preparing to intern here: budget extra money for transportation!

I chose Cape Town because it offered an amazing opportunity to work with African penguins at a seabird rehabilitation center. I was also drawn to the beauty of the mountains, the ocean, and the rich culture that I knew Cape Town would offer. From the moment I arrived, I loved interacting with the people here—everyone is so kind, welcoming, and encouraging. It truly felt like being part of a family. At my internship, I was inspired every day by the passion everyone had for protecting seabirds. I will miss my internship so much. Working with the seabirds every day was an incredible experience, and I was able to achieve my goals of working with and handling animals in a rehabilitation and release setting. I also gained many practical skills at the seabird rehabilitation center that I can carry into my future veterinary career, including feeding, handling, tubing, and giving and preparing medications. One of the biggest things I learned about myself is that I thrive in fast-paced, high-pressure environments—especially when I’m doing work I’m passionate about. I stayed in Cape Town for three months, and I personally think it’s the perfect amount of time. It gave me enough space to adjust to a new environment while also fully immersing myself in the culture and making Cape Town feel like home.

I chose Cape Town for my internship because I heard someone describe their incredible experience here, and I was curious to see it for myself—especially the penguins! From the very beginning, VACorps exceeded my expectations. The internship was both flexible and local, which made it easy to balance meaningful work with exploring the city. What truly stood out was how much I learned about myself. I discovered how much I love meeting new people and connecting across cultures. The VAC team made the entire journey seamless. They were welcoming, reliable, and always available to guide me through this new environment. Because of them, Cape Town quickly felt like home. My highlights included the breathtaking views and unforgettable hikes. I also feel lucky to have worked alongside such amazing colleagues—especially Asanda, who was endlessly patient and kind while showing me the ropes. In just two months, I felt like I was able to experience almost everything Cape Town has to offer, and I’d recommend this program to anyone considering it. VACorps creates the perfect balance between meaningful work experience and cultural adventure. Their consistency, efficiency, and warm environment truly set them apart. Rowan was instrumental in helping me find this internship, while Kholi became someone I connected with on a deeper level. And of course, Kus and Chris brought incredible energy and enthusiasm to every activity.

I chose to intern and study abroad in Cape Town because it was the farthest place from home, and I knew that if I was going to study abroad, I wanted to make the absolute most of it by experiencing as many new things as possible. What I loved most about my internship here is that it never felt like I was only here to work—I was also able to enjoy myself and discover more than I could have ever imagined. Being in Cape Town taught me that I can do anything I set my mind to. I traveled outside of my home country for the first time, did it alone, and placed myself in an entirely new environment. Yet I thrived, and I’ve never been happier. I’ll never forget the warm, welcoming environment at my internship site or how my colleagues made me feel like I belonged. Living in Cape Town felt like an adventure every single day. What I’ll miss most are the people: my colleagues, the VACorps staff, the students from around the world who also came to intern or study abroad, and the local friends I made. Every person I met made an impact on my life, and it’s hard to accept that my time here isn’t forever. Because of the relationships I built, it felt like I was creating a whole new life—and it only took two months for that to happen. If you’re coming to Cape Town to intern or study abroad, I think 2–3 months is perfect. There’s so much to do and see, and once you add work into your routine, you’ll need to use your free time wisely. Don’t limit yourself to one activity per day—fit in as much as you can. Even if something feels intimidating or outside your comfort zone, push yourself to do it anyway. After work on weekdays, get out, meet people, and explore as much as possible.

I completed my internship at an NGO that supports pregnant women and children, and my time in Cape Town has been truly unforgettable. What I loved most about being here was the warm and welcoming culture—both at my workplace and throughout the city. There is a genuine sense of community and kindness that made me feel comfortable, included, and at home wherever I went. VACorps provided steady, reliable support throughout my stay, offering helpful guidance and ensuring I had what I needed to settle in and enjoy Cape Town. I also appreciated the laid-back, relaxed atmosphere that defines life in Cape Town. People take time to connect, to talk, and to enjoy the moment. During my eight weeks here, I built close friendships and formed connections that I will genuinely miss. For anyone considering this experience, I would recommend staying six to eight weeks—you need that time to settle in, build relationships, and fully immerse yourself. One of the most rewarding parts of my internship was conducting assessments, especially with women and families from different countries and regions of South Africa. This experience supported my personal goal of learning how to communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. It was meaningful, eye-opening work that helped me grow both personally and professionally. Looking back, I’m grateful for every moment—every conversation, every shared experience, and every opportunity to learn. Cape Town has given me memories and skills that I’ll carry with me long after I leave.

As a student majoring in education, I was very interested in learning about the South African education system, especially given the country’s history of apartheid. People in Cape Town are incredibly friendly, and I felt that I could connect with them deeply beyond the boundaries of gender or race. The opportunity VACorps provided to visit the township was truly eye-opening. Seeing the educational gaps firsthand helped me understand the real power and importance of education. South Africa is also rich in natural beauty, which fascinated me every day. I enjoyed hiking, canoeing, and jogging with my roommates and VAC members—these experiences have become some of my favourite memories. As an Asian student, I was surprised to find that people often stared at me, simply because Asian visitors are still relatively rare here. However, I learned that their curiosity comes from genuine interest. If you keep an open mind, it becomes a wonderful opportunity for cultural exchange. I recommend embracing the experience of being a minority! VACorps’ Friday activities are incredibly diverse and gave us the chance to explore all the essential places in Cape Town. I am truly grateful for the many places they took us and for all the beautiful memories created along the way.

Interning in Cape Town through VACorps has been an incredibly rewarding professional experience. I had the opportunity to work in a placement that aligned with my professional goals and allowed me to expand my skill set, including adapting to a new legal and cultural context. This experience deepened my understanding of how the law intersects with social realities and provided invaluable exposure to international perspectives on justice, policy, and human rights. The mentorship I received, along with a variety of hands-on work, strengthened my skills and confidence beyond what could be attained in a traditional classroom or internship setting. Beyond the work itself, Cape Town offered a vibrant and diverse backdrop for professional growth. Collaborating with local colleagues allowed me to witness resilience, innovation, and community-driven change in action. I will carry the lessons I learned here into every stage of my career. VACorps provided phenomenal support and engaging activities that made this not only a professional milestone but also a personally transformative chapter of my life.

I chose Cape Town for my internship because the opportunity to work with a professional rugby club was one I couldn’t pass up. As a physical therapy student, I wanted to be challenged in a setting that would push me professionally, and rugby in South Africa is on a level unlike anywhere else. The chance to learn in that environment while living in a vibrant and diverse city made the decision easy. What I valued most about interning in Cape Town was the blend of professional growth and personal adventure. Every day at the rugby club brought something new—working with elite athletes, observing the rehab process, and seeing the teamwork and resilience required at the highest level. One of my goals was to gain hands-on experience in a professional sports rehab setting, and I achieved that by observing injury assessments, learning about return-to-play protocols, and engaging with both athletes and staff. I especially enjoyed shadowing the medical team during training sessions and seeing how physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, and coaching intersect. A highlight was observing rehab progressions in real time and understanding how small adjustments can significantly impact performance. Some of my favorite moments were being on the sidelines during training, watching the medical and performance teams collaborate, and getting to know the players beyond the game. Those experiences reminded me why I chose this profession—to help athletes reach their potential and return to what they love. Outside of work, Cape Town constantly amazed me. The mountains, beaches, and the rhythm of the city made every free moment feel like an adventure. During my time here, I learned that I can adapt quickly to new environments and find confidence even in unfamiliar situations. It was humbling and motivating to step into a high-performance sports environment and realize how much I could learn alongside experienced professionals. Living in Cape Town was just as memorable as the internship itself. I loved the mix of cultures, the food, and the natural beauty surrounding the city. Most of all, I’ll miss the people I met—both through the rugby club and through VACorps. The friendships and sense of community here are truly special. I stayed for about three months, and I’d recommend that length to future interns if possible. The longer you stay, the more you can settle in and take full advantage of the professional and personal opportunities. My biggest tip is to arrive with an open mind and say yes to as much as you can—whether it’s trying something new at your site or joining a spontaneous weekend trip. The VACorps staff were incredible throughout my stay. The weekly activities made it easy to connect with other interns, and their support behind the scenes made the transition to life in Cape Town smooth and stress-free. I’m especially grateful for the community they foster, which made this experience so much more than just an internship. My time with the rugby club and in Cape Town has been one of the most impactful experiences of my life. I’m leaving with new skills, new friendships, and memories I’ll carry with me forever.

My time in Cape Town has been the most unforgettable few weeks, and I am beyond grateful to have experienced it. I grew in confidence, learned from others, and immersed myself in a new culture. Whether it was stepping out of my comfort zone to meet new people, discovering my passion for teaching, or exploring everything Cape Town has to offer, this trip has truly changed my life. I loved getting to know other interns from around the world and sharing so many new experiences together. Interning at the schools taught me more than I ever anticipated. I wanted international experience to help me pursue my dream of becoming a teacher, and working at Kiddies College and Observatory Junior School gave me exactly that. I felt at home in the classroom—whether I was teaching at the board, walking around to help students at their desks, or making sure each child felt supported. One of my personal goals was to get to know each student individually and be someone they could rely on inside and outside the classroom. I enjoyed grading their work, helping them understand their mistakes, and showing them how to improve. Assisting with their concert dance at Observatory Junior School was another highlight. I am most thankful for the people I met, the students I worked with, and the supervisors who guided me. Cape Town has so much to offer, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to experience it.

Interning at a human rights research NGO in Cape Town was an incredibly rewarding experience. I chose Cape Town because I wanted to gain real-world experience in human rights, and South Africa—given its rich constitutional framework and history of social justice—was the perfect place to do that. During my internship, I engaged in meaningful research, particularly on children’s rights, a field I’m deeply passionate about. After completing some foundational tasks, I was invited to contribute to one of the NGO’s official publications. This was a significant milestone for me, as it aligned with my goal of engaging in policy-relevant writing. I’m grateful for the trust placed in me and approached this opportunity with the same care and commitment I brought to the rest of my work. Being surrounded by professionals dedicated to advocacy and policy reform was inspiring and gave me a deeper understanding of how law and development intersect to promote human dignity, equity, and justice. Outside of work, Cape Town truly stole my heart. I’ll never forget seeing the African penguins at Simon’s Town, hiking to Cape Point with fellow interns, and going on a weekend safari that felt like stepping into a dream. These shared adventures created memories and friendships I’ll cherish for life. The VACorps staff were phenomenal—always supportive, approachable, and genuinely committed to creating a meaningful experience for each intern. The weekly activities were not only fun but also helped us better understand South Africa’s history and culture. I’m especially grateful for the community that VACorps fosters. Having that support system made a huge difference, both professionally and personally. Thank you, VACorps, for an unforgettable journey. I’m leaving Cape Town with new perspectives and a renewed passion for human rights work.

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!

This was my second summer interning abroad—after spending last summer in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and solo traveling across the United Kingdom—and I couldn’t be happier with my decision to choose Cape Town for my second international internship experience. Over the past two and a half months, I held a dual placement that allowed me to work at the intersection of public policy, research, and community-led justice. My work supported efforts to institutionalize South Africa’s National Strategic Plan (NSP) on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and to ensure that national commitments translate into meaningful, localized outcomes. A major part of my role involved contributing to monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) frameworks. I facilitated focus groups with adolescents, analyzed emergent themes, and documented service delivery gaps—hands-on work that deepened my understanding of how policy impacts communities on the ground. I also contributed to research on NSP implementation across all nine provinces, analyzed departmental performance plans and budgets, and produced policy briefs aimed at improving policy localization. Throughout my internship, I participated in stakeholder engagements, court support systems, and community-led initiatives, giving me a comprehensive view of how justice systems operate at both institutional and community levels. One of my proudest accomplishments was delivering a final presentation synthesizing my findings and offering recommendations for future alignment and impact. Beyond the professional experience, what made this summer truly special were the people—the friends I made, the VAC staff, and the broader Cape Town community. When I first moved into 73 Arnold, I hoped my roommates and orientation group would become close friends—and that hope exceeded all expectations. Some of my favorite memories include backpacking in the Cederberg Mountains, booking an Airbnb in Stellenbosch, attending the Springboks’ opening game, enjoying First Thursdays, hopping on the Franschhoek Wine Tram, and hiking Devil’s Peak and Lion’s Head. Each adventure was unforgettable, and the people I shared them with made them even more meaningful. To Ila, Esmee, Jordan, Maarten, and Ava—thank you for being some of the most incredible people I’ve ever met. And to the VAC staff, thank you for your support, care, and warmth; you help turn Cape Town into a true home for so many of us. To anyone feeling nervous about coming to Cape Town, know that the friends you make here—along with the VAC staff and community—will become your support system. They will shape your experience in the best possible way. Savor every moment.

Interning at a human rights research NGO in Cape Town was an incredibly rewarding experience. I chose Cape Town because I wanted to gain real-world experience in human rights, and South Africa—given its rich constitutional framework and history of social justice—was the perfect place to do that. During my internship, I engaged in meaningful research, particularly on children’s rights, a field I’m deeply passionate about. After completing some foundational tasks, I was invited to contribute to one of the NGO’s official publications. This was a significant milestone for me, as it aligned with my goal of engaging in policy-relevant writing. I’m grateful for the trust placed in me and approached this opportunity with the same care and commitment I brought to the rest of my work. Being surrounded by professionals dedicated to advocacy and policy reform was inspiring and gave me a deeper understanding of how law and development intersect to promote human dignity, equity, and justice. Outside of work, Cape Town truly stole my heart. I’ll never forget seeing the African penguins at Simon’s Town, hiking to Cape Point with fellow interns, and going on a weekend safari that felt like stepping into a dream. These shared adventures created memories and friendships I’ll cherish for life. The VACorps staff were phenomenal—always supportive, approachable, and genuinely committed to creating a meaningful experience for each intern. The weekly activities were not only fun but also helped us better understand South Africa’s history and culture. I’m especially grateful for the community that VACorps fosters. Having that support system made a huge difference, both professionally and personally. Thank you, VACorps, for an unforgettable journey. I’m leaving Cape Town with new perspectives and a renewed passion for human rights work.

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.

For as long as I’ve been on this Earth, I’ve had a passion for being alive. For years, I couldn’t name it—I was simply the odd one out in my hometown, a roaming visionary trapped in a cage. Then one night, I dreamed of a mountain calling my name, singing to my soul. It wasn’t long before I realized that the mountain was Table Mountain, and that I was meant to come to Cape Town. This place holds so much magic for anyone willing to listen—willing to receive it. And once I arrived, it felt like the pieces of my life finally started falling into place. All I needed was to take that first step, that leap off a mountain, and trust that I could fly. When I decided to come here, I was also searching for my purpose and direction in life. Getting work experience felt like the most logical next move. So I placed my trust in the unknown, and in return, God aligned me with the best opportunities I could have asked for: the right internship, the right roommates, the right friends. Everything unfolded perfectly. Interning in Cape Town is an experience you will never forget. I worked at one of South Africa’s most well-known art galleries, and during my three months here, I could not wait to wake up each morning and head to work. I loved my life here, and I loved what I was doing. If you commit fully to your placement, you’ll have an exceptional experience. The amount of growth I gained simply from showing up and doing the work was exponential. During my time in Cape Town, I discovered how brave and courageous I truly am. I realized I am a never-ending roamer—and made peace with that. I accepted that even if I don’t fit the molds or expectations set by society, that doesn’t make me any less worthy of joy. If you’re reading this, chances are you see a part of yourself in these words. Our paths may differ from what society calls “normal,” but that’s because you and I are extraordinary. There is nothing wrong with shining your light, however it appears. By following my dream—literally—and coming to Cape Town, I learned just how strong, independent, and resourceful I can be. I survived all the challenges of living alone in another country, and I returned ten times stronger. If this message resonates, maybe it’s a sign that you, too, are meant to come here. Maybe it’s your time to evolve—and if so, that is perfect. My advice? Expect the unexpected. Let go of who you were so you can become who you are meant to be. Close your eyes and feel. Make it your mission to meet at least one new person every day. And when you look in the mirror each morning, be proud of the person you see. You’ve read this far—why stop now? Maybe it’s time to surprise everyone, come to the tip of Africa, and collect some unforgettable stories of your own.

I chose Cape Town as my location to intern abroad because it offered the perfect balance of vibrant city life and beautiful nature, all within a diverse community where I could learn from many different perspectives. What I loved most about interning here was the opportunity to explore the city—whether through Friday activities or adventures with friends I met along the way. During my time here, I learned that I’m much more open to trying new things than I ever expected. My advice: arrive with an open mind and say yes to opportunities—whether that’s joining activities or meeting new people. The highlights at my internship site were the jokes, camaraderie, and relationships I built with the Tintoy team. I achieved my goal of making the most out of my time here, and I also gained a broader understanding of the media industry and the many career paths available within it. What I loved most about living in Cape Town was how affordable it was to try new things and explore, especially compared to many other cities. I’ll miss the free salsa nights and Mojo Market the most! I stayed for three months, and I believe that’s the perfect amount of time to get a well-rounded experience of Cape Town. To prepare, I recommend following event-related Instagram accounts early on and asking for recommendations from others. Creating a budget spreadsheet also helped tremendously. I started budgeting a year in advance and factored in cost of living, must-do activities like the Garden Route, and expenses for souvenirs. The VACorps staff were very friendly, and the weekly activities were fun, interactive, and a great way to meet people. I’m most grateful for my housing roommates and the group of VAC participants I connected with as soon as I arrived.

I stayed with VAC for a 12-week internship and absolutely loved my time in Cape Town. There is so much to do in the city, from outdoor adventures to art and entertainment. When I first arrived, Cape Town felt daunting and unfamiliar, but everyone—both inside and outside of VAC—made everything approachable and comforting. My internship experience was fantastic. The organization I interned with supports infrastructure development in Africa by providing engineering consulting and lowering the barrier of entry for industry. I worked with people who were friendly, welcoming, and fun to talk to—both about the work and about life beyond the job. I especially enjoyed the hands-on nature of the work, including material property testing such as compression, tensile, and bend tests. They were genuinely interested in me as a person and wanted to help me grow in my career. Leaving after 12 weeks now feels like leaving a second home. It’s a place where I met amazing people, explored new things, and created wonderful memories and connections. Cape Town is an easy place to thrive, but I especially appreciate the ongoing support from the VAC staff. They’re always there for you, and you can truly see how much they care about everyone who joins the program. I couldn’t recommend them highly enough.

Spending five weeks in the heart of Cape Town was truly an experience I never imagined I’d have—and for that, I am so grateful! From stepping out of my comfort zone in a new medical environment to pushing my adventurous limits and trying new things, working with VACorps gave me the opportunity to expand my horizons beyond anything I could have imagined. My personal goals for the internship were to put myself out there and grow both my medical experience and knowledge, and working at Khayelitsha helped me do exactly that. I learned to speak up and ask questions with confidence, sought out hands-on learning opportunities that strengthened my medical understanding, and met doctors and nurses who shared valuable insight into Cape Town’s healthcare system. Through these experiences, I grew in confidence and confirmed that my passions truly lie within the medical field. What makes this program so unique compared to other organizations abroad is the holistic experience it provides for every participant. Living in the college town of Observatory, going on excursions across Cape Town, and working in townships that most visitors never get to see allowed me to experience the true spirit of South African culture—beautifully diverse and full of life. I am proud and thankful to say that I’m leaving these five weeks better than when I arrived, and I’m forever grateful to VACorps for giving me the opportunity to see the world in a new light.

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 wanted the perfect blend of building my resume, gaining lived experience, and adventuring somewhere I never imagined myself exploring. Cape Town gave me all of that. The mountains, beaches, and safaris satisfied my love of the outdoors, while my medical internship provided invaluable lessons I will carry into my future profession. I chose this program because I knew a previous intern who spoke so highly of her experience. Without her encouragement, I might never have discovered Cape Town. It isn’t your typical travel or internship destination, but it offers so much if you’re open to learning from the people who’ve been here. The diversity of activities and cultures kept me constantly discovering new things, and even after three months I felt like I had only scratched the surface. What I loved most were the people—both locals and other interns. Living with peers from around the world was a unique chance to share cultures and perspectives, and I found South Africans to be vibrant, friendly, and outgoing. I will miss the energy of the people and the beauty of the three peaks rising over the city and ocean. During my 12-week stay, I rotated through nearly every hospital department: trauma and emergency, labor and delivery, chronic and acute care, triage, immunizations, baby clinic, speech and occupational therapy, physical therapy, and more. While the structure could feel unorganized at times, the freedom to choose where to spend each day made it possible to learn deeply in the areas that mattered most to me. The weekly activities were another highlight, whether hiking Table Mountain, touring townships, or seeing penguins at Boulders Beach. They brought interns together and made each week memorable. The culture series varied. Some were fantastic introductions to South Africa’s diverse traditions, others less engaging. Overall, VACorps staff was incredible. They were consistently supportive and committed to tailoring the experience to my interests. I would encourage future interns to stay the full 12 weeks if possible. Come with an open mind, embrace the contrasts of the city, and be ready to learn—not just from your site, but from the community around you.

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.

The city was excellent as a new place to learn and grow. I loved meeting new people, sharing stories, and talking about our future plans. It was amazing to get to know the children at the primary school where I worked. I would strongly recommend the experience. I will never forget the one-on-one teaching with the children; I love teaching and inspiring the youth. I would recommend staying for a few months because there is so much to experience in the area, with its rich history. The staff and weekly activities were amazing. I loved hiking the mountains and trying new foods. Most of all, I am grateful for having such a loving and caring support system with Vacorps. Leave expectations behind. Be open, be helpful, and be respectful. Let the children ask questions and interact, because in doing so, we inspire them. I was able to fully connect with the children as well as the staff, and I feel like I have created a place of belonging and joined a community.

​ Prior to this experience, I had never even been to Africa. Now, after nearly three months in Cape Town, I can say it was an incredible journey filled with unforgettable moments. From hiking and surfing to late-night poker games with friends. The memories I made here will stay with me forever. My biggest advice to anyone considering this program is to come with a positive and open mindset. If you embrace the culture, the people, and the experiences, you will have an amazing time. Through my internship, I gained valuable insight into how Cape Town and South Africa work, and I loved getting to speak with locals every day. This experience gave me not only professional growth but also a deep connection to the city and its people.

I chose Cape Town because one of my professors recommended it. He’s a geographer who often spoke about different countries and cultures around the world. Inspired by that, I added Cape Town, South Africa to my bucket list. Choosing an internship here was also a way for me to test my adaptability in a new culture and work environment. What I loved most about interning in Cape Town was how laid-back and humorous people were. They were lively, yet deeply committed to their work. Through this experience, I discovered that I really enjoy talking with people. I’m open-minded to new things, and I’ve learned to embrace that trait. I realized I have the ability to form strong connections across the world. Some of the best highlights from working at the Castle of Good Hope were learning isiXhosa and Zulu. Even though I had to adjust how I approached learning new languages, I feel I’ve carried an important piece of Cape Town with me. I also got to experience authentic South African food—like chicken feet! Most importantly, I built meaningful connections with my colleagues, especially with my boss, who taught me so much about the significance of the Castle of Good Hope. Living in Cape Town was an unforgettable experience. I loved everything about it—the good and the bad. In many ways, it reminded me of Los Angeles, with its diversity and vibrant cultures. And I will definitely miss ARMCHAIR and their trivia nights!

I chose Cape Town because I wanted the second semester of my gap year to be different from the first, which I spent in Spain. I had always heard wonderful things about Cape Town and was eager to finally experience it for myself. From orientation onward, I felt incredibly supported by the VAC team, and that support continued throughout my time here. Embrace the love everyone at VAC has to offer—it truly is such a special program, and I hope more people come to appreciate it as much as I now do. One of my goals was to learn how to be truly passionate about my internship, and I absolutely achieved that. I also loved working with the kids and sharing games from the US with them—it was an unforgettable experience.

I chose Cape Town because I wanted the second semester of my gap year to be different from the first, which I spent in Spain. I had always heard wonderful things about Cape Town and was eager to finally experience it for myself. From orientation onward, I felt incredibly supported by the VAC team, and that support continued throughout my time here. Embrace the love everyone at VAC has to offer—it truly is such a special program, and I hope more people come to appreciate it as much as I now do. One of my goals was to learn how to be truly passionate about my internship, and I absolutely achieved that. I also loved working with the kids and sharing games from the US with them—it was an unforgettable experience.

Coming to South Africa was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I came to Cape Town to gain hands-on experience before starting graduate school, and after just three months, I’ve grown both personally and professionally in ways I never imagined. Cape Town is truly one of the most beautiful cities in the world — from its stunning mountains and pristine beaches to its vibrant culture and incredibly friendly people. There’s always something happening here, whether you're a foodie, a hiker, or just someone who loves exploring. I’ve climbed some of the most breathtaking mountains, swam in the ocean, and eaten my way through South Africa. The vibrancy of life here is unmatched. But what’s left the deepest impact has been my internship experience — connecting with kids has brought a sense of purpose and joy that’s hard to describe. There’s something so pure and genuine about those relationships. One of the most unexpected gifts of this journey has been the friendships I’ve formed — with fellow VA Corps interns from around the world and with South Africans who welcomed me with open arms. These connections have made my experience even more meaningful and added depth to every adventure, conversation, and shared meal. Through VA Corps, I’ve had the chance to experience Cape Town in a dynamic and multifaceted way. From hikes and wine tastings to food tours, waterfront cruises, and even dance lessons and performances — every experience has deepened my appreciation for this place and its people. This journey has been unforgettable, and Cape Town will always have a special place in my heart.

My time in Cape Town was incredibly rewarding, adventurous, and eye-opening. During my internship, I worked with a nonprofit organization based in the township of Langa, where I tutored high school students in algebra, physics, and trigonometry. This experience exposed me to both the challenges faced by the community and the inspiring, service-driven mindset of many local leaders. Beyond my internship, I took advantage of everything Cape Town has to offer. I hiked many trails, explored neighborhoods like CBD and Sea Point, and spent time at the beach with friends. I highly recommend doing an internship through VACorps because you can explore your professional interests while experiencing life in one of the most beautiful cities in the world!

My time in Cape Town was incredibly rewarding, adventurous, and eye-opening. During my internship, I worked with a nonprofit organization based in the township of Langa, where I tutored high school students in algebra, physics, and trigonometry. This experience exposed me to both the challenges faced by the community and the inspiring, service-driven mindset of many local leaders. Beyond my internship, I took advantage of everything Cape Town has to offer. I hiked many trails, explored neighborhoods like CBD and Sea Point, and spent time at the beach with friends. I highly recommend doing an internship through VACorps because you can explore your professional interests while experiencing life in one of the most beautiful cities in the world!

Cape Town had always been a very mysterious city to me. I had been here once, but at a very young age. I wasn't sure what the people were truly like, what their history was beyond the basics, and I don't think I ever understood how versatile and unique the city is. Mentally and physically the city felt like a faraway land, yet I was willing to travel the distance, because a few friends had absolutely loved their VACorps experience here. I figured that living in a completely foreign city would be exciting and new and challenging. And in reflection, I am so glad that I had the opportunity to intern with a local surf company. I worked on the retail side, and being the only female, it felt good to help other females in the store find what they were looking for. After living in Cape Town, I have learned how many layers there truly are to a place, and even after a while, I still have barely cracked through the first few layers. Similarly, I have learned that each and every one of us have more layers too, that you learn exist when you throw yourself in a new place, a new position. With the exposure to such a different city, I feel that I learned how much I love versatility in a place. In Cape Town there is always something to do or something to see. I loved how much independence I felt here, whether I was alongside my friends or alone in a coffee shop. Some of my highlights were the Garden Route weekend where we drove up the eastern coast and bungee jumped, hungout with elephants, swam in the Indian ocean and more along the route, sky diving, working on my surfing, and walking/ hiking across Tabletop mountain. I loved how many restaurants featured different cultures of delicious food. From little coffee shops to large markets, I definitely ate well in Cape Town. I am grateful for how kind and real the staff at VACorps were since the very beginning. They were a key aspect in making it feel like home. I felt safe and accounted for at all times and had proper knowledge on how to stay safe and be smart when navigating the city. I stayed in Cape Town for about 2 months, and I think this was the perfect amount of time to see as much as we did. Obviously, there will always be more to see, but I am grateful for everything we got to see and do.

I came to Cape Town with sky-high expectations—and somehow, this city still managed to exceed them. Every day, I found myself asking, “What should I try today?” and there was never a shortage of answers. Few places in the world offer the same richness of opportunity as Cape Town does. Whether natural, cultural, or social, this city truly has something for everyone. Looking back on my time in the program, I’ve made lifelong friends and developed essential life skills. From meaningful personal connections to unforgettable experiences, Cape Town and VACorps gave me everything I hoped for—and so much more. I came into this internship wanting to push my comfort zone, and that’s exactly what I did. Everything I took on at my internship was new to me, which challenged me to sharpen my problem-solving skills and trust myself. I’m especially proud of the work I did with the camera—it was my first time using anything other than an iPhone! I figured out a simple system for transferring photos and quickly learned what kinds of images would perform well on social media.

I came to Cape Town with sky-high expectations, somehow this city blew them away. Every day, I found myself asking, "What should I try today?" there was never a shortage of answers. I know that very few places in the world contain the amount of opportunities that Cape Town does. Whether it's natural, cultural, or social this city has something for everyone. Looking back on the program, I've made friends to last a lifetime and picked up essential life skills. From personal connections to unforgettable experiences, Cape Town and VACorps have given me everything I asked for and more.

I came to Cape Town for two and a half months to intern at an environmental organization. During my time there, I spent two days a week in the office supporting a sustainability education program, and two days in the field at various conservation sites. I really enjoyed having this balance between outdoor, active time and time at a computer. Everyone at my internship was so welcoming and made me feel safe to ask questions and be myself! The highlight of my internship was getting to spend a few days in Simon’s Town helping out the penguin rangers. I did nest counts, helped rescue abandoned eggs, and even did some house calls to remove penguins from people’s gardens! Outside of my internship, I really got to explore and fall in love with the city of Cape Town. From the beaches to Table Mountain, there is so much to offer. Even after being here for over two months, I feel like I have just scratched the surface. I can’t wait to come back and visit again!

I came to Cape Town for two and a half months to intern at an environmental organization. During my time there, I spent two days a week in the office supporting a sustainability education program, and two days in the field at various conservation sites. I really enjoyed having this balance between outdoor, active time and time at a computer. Everyone at my internship was so welcoming and made me feel safe to ask questions and be myself! The highlight of my internship was getting to spend a few days in Simon’s Town helping out the penguin rangers. I did nest counts, helped rescue abandoned eggs, and even did some house calls to remove penguins from people’s gardens! Outside of my internship, I really got to explore and fall in love with the city of Cape Town. From the beaches to Table Mountain, there is so much to offer. Even after being here for over two months, I feel like I have just scratched the surface. I can’t wait to come back and visit again!

I chose VAC because I wanted to explore the field of psychology during my gap year— and in doing so, I was introduced to new areas of interest and experiences I never could have imagined! I absolutely loved the hikes, adventures, incredible food, rich history, and deep sense of community I found through the gap year program and throughout Observatory and Cape Town as a whole. One of my favorite memories is planting lettuce on a sunny day with a breathtaking view of Table Mountain and the entire waterfront — something I’ll never forget. I also loved how accessible Observatory is, with its amazing restaurants, thrift stores, and vibrant live music scene. I stayed from January to March, which felt like the perfect amount of time — I definitely wouldn’t have wanted it to be any shorter. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to immerse myself in such a beautiful, diverse place and to truly experience life in Cape Town.

I chose VAC to learn more about the field of psychology that I was interested, and was opened up to new fields and experiences that I never imagined! I loved the hikes, adventures, restaurants, history, and deep sense of community in the gap year program and within Observatory and Cape Town as a whole. I will never forget planting lettuce on a beautiful sunny day with a view of Table Mountain and the entire waterfront! I loved how accessible Observatory is - the restaurants, thrift stores, and live music scene. I stayed from January-March and it seemed like the perfect amount of time - definitely wouldn’t have wanted it to be any shorter! I am grateful for the opportunity to have immersed myself in a new place and live in one of the most beautiful and diverse places I have ever been.

I chose Cape Town for my internship because I believed that learning about different countries and cultures would enrich my understanding of the world. I decided to do an internship to gain business experience and better prepare for the “real world.” During my time here, I learned several technical skills, including how to use a sewing machine—I even managed to make a bag and a pillow, which I’m really proud of. One specific observation I made was just how challenging the fashion industry can be for aspiring designers and entrepreneurs. I loved interacting with my coworkers and the children at my placement. One moment I’ll always remember is arriving at the daycare and being swarmed with hugs from the kids. I also loved the weather, going to the beach, and exploring different cultural attractions. The aspect of the VACorps program I’m most grateful for is the approachability of the staff and the kindness they showed me every day.

I had high expectations for VACorps, and the experience exceeded them. The support from the VACorps team was excellent. Aside from the Lead Me workshop, the orientation program grounded me in the culture and geography of the city and gave me a strong sense of what to explore and experience. The weekly excursions were fun, well-organized, and clearly communicated. I didn’t attend enough Culture Series events to comment meaningfully on them. My internship was the highlight of my time in Cape Town. I was placed in a dynamic environment where I was given real responsibilities and the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution. I gained valuable professional experience and learned a great deal about everyday life in South Africa through my coworkers, as well as about the country’s politics and history through conversations with more senior colleagues. I also genuinely enjoyed the people I worked with and felt welcomed as part of the team. Finally, I made real, lasting friendships here. The close-knit layout of the Lofts and the abundance of exciting things to do create the perfect recipe for forming deep bonds. The people I met were smart, adventurous, and kind—we even went skydiving together in the first week! I’ve never been surrounded by a group quite like this before. I heard about VACorps through word of mouth—and it makes sense. People who do this program tell others to do it, too.

I chose Cape Town because I had heard incredible things about its culture and natural beauty. I wanted to improve my surfing and gain more independence before starting college. I also saw an internship as a great way to experience the workforce and learn what it’s like to live and work on my own. What I loved most was the community I found at my internship. The people I worked with were incredibly friendly and welcoming, and over time, they became good friends. I learned that I bring a strong presence to any space and that I’m confident and capable on my own. I’ll never forget surfing with my colleagues and the braai we had together after work one evening — or the many fun nights spent with others in the program. Our weekend getaway to Hermanus is another memory I’ll cherish forever. I stayed in Cape Town from approximately January 5th to March 5th. I’d recommend staying for at least two to three months — no less. The first week or two can be an adjustment, especially when it comes to the food, but just be prepared and give it time. The VACorps staff were amazing — always friendly, quick to help, and full of great recommendations. I really enjoyed the weekly activities, and I appreciated that while we had support when needed, we also had plenty of independence. I’m so grateful for everything this experience gave me.

These past few months have been absolutely incredible and truly life-changing. I’ve fallen in love with Cape Town — from its stunning natural beauty to the warmth and kindness of its people. This city has become a second home, and I’ve formed friendships that I know will last a lifetime. My internship gave me valuable exposure to a professional work environment, and I now feel more confident and prepared as I head back to school this fall. To the entire VACorps team: I can’t thank you enough for your support and everything you've made possible. And to anyone considering this program — you won’t regret it. Cape Town is, without a doubt, one of the most amazing places on earth!

I chose Cape Town for my gap year because I believed that learning about different countries and cultures would enrich my understanding of the world. I decided to do an internship to gain business experience and better prepare for the "real world." During my time here, I learned several technical skills, including how to use a sewing machine—I even managed to make a bag and a pillow, which I’m really proud of. One specific observation I made was just how challenging the fashion industry can be for aspiring designers and entrepreneurs. I loved interacting with my coworkers and the children at my placement. One moment I’ll always remember is arriving at the daycare and being swarmed with hugs from the kids. I also loved the weather, going to the beach, and exploring different cultural attractions. The aspect of the VACorps program I'm most grateful for is the approachability of the staff and the kindness they showed me every day.

I chose Cape Town because I believed that learning about different countries and cultures would enrich my understanding of the world. I decided to do an internship to gain business experience and better prepare for the "real world." I loved interacting with my coworkers and the children at my placement. One moment I’ll always remember is arriving at the daycare and being swarmed with hugs from the kids. I also loved the weather, going to the beach, and exploring different cultural attractions. The aspect of the VACorps program I'm most grateful for is the approachability of the staff and the kindness they showed me every day.

I decided to come to Cape Town because I was deeply interested in the people and the culture. My internship sounded like exactly what I was looking for and I couldn't be happier that I ended up here. I interned at a community-based nonprofit in Khayelitsha that supports grandmothers affected by poverty and HIV/AIDS through support groups, skills workshops, and programs for local children. The things I’ve learned from the grandmothers I worked with have gone far beyond what I ever imagined. The thought of leaving them makes me feel genuinely heartbroken. I’m going to miss arriving at the organization each day and greeting every grandma with a smile. Cape Town turned out to be the perfect fit for this chapter of my internship abroad. The freedom I experienced here has taught me so much about myself and the world.

I decided to come to Cape Town because I was deeply interested in the people and the culture. My internship sounded like exactly what I was looking for and I couldn't be happier that I ended up here. I interned at a community-based nonprofit in Khayelitsha that supports grandmothers affected by poverty and HIV/AIDS through support groups, skills workshops, and programs for local children. The things I’ve learned from the grandmothers I worked with have gone far beyond what I ever imagined. The thought of leaving them makes me feel genuinely heartbroken. I’m going to miss arriving at the organization each day and greeting every grandma with a smile. Cape Town turned out to be the perfect fit for this chapter of my gap year. The freedom I experienced here has taught me so much about myself and the world.

I decided to intern abroad because I wanted to combine new experiences with learning. I felt it was important to explore the medical field more deeply before starting college, which is why I pursued an internship. I chose Cape Town because it seemed like a beautiful city, and I was drawn to its mix of beach, mountains, and urban life. What I loved most were the people I met and the wide range of activities we got to do together—everything felt so accessible for visitors. I learned that I’m capable of being completely independent, even in a new country. What I’ll miss most is the everyday adventure of living in Cape Town. I never ended up where I thought I would be when each day began. I stayed for two and a half months, but I’d love to stay longer. I’m a little homesick now, but I know that once I leave, I’ll be homesick for Cape Town instead. For anyone considering interning in Cape Town, my advice is: don’t come with expectations. My experience was totally different from what I imagined—and way more adventurous. We were told to buy what we needed here instead of bringing it all from home, and I didn’t listen. I definitely recommend taking that advice—everything is more affordable here, and you can find whatever you need. I really enjoyed the weekly activities. They were a great way to get outside, hang out with friends, and unwind after a week of work. I’d recommend going on as many as possible. I’m really grateful I had this experience. I feel lucky to have come with such amazing people and to have landed such an interesting internship.

I chose Cape Town because it was so far from home. It’s a developing nation nearly 20 hours away, and that distance represented a big change for me. But this year has been about trying new things and stepping outside my comfort zone—so I went for it. I don’t think I fully processed what that lifestyle shift would mean when I had my final conversation with Oliver and made the decision. During my time here, I’ve learned so much—though it’s hard to put it all into words. I’ve grown a lot as a person, mostly from living with people who are very different from me and navigating life in a completely foreign environment. For the first time, I’ve been cooking for myself, shopping for groceries, and managing day-to-day life independently. Traveling in the fall helped build my confidence and life skills, but nothing compares to this experience. I’m a much different person now than when I arrived, and this program has been incredibly impactful for my personal growth. I feel so much more ready for college life now that I’ve been through VACorps.

I chose Cape Town because it was so far from home. It’s a developing nation nearly 20 hours away, and that distance represented a big change for me. But this year has been about trying new things and stepping outside my comfort zone—so I went for it. I don’t think I fully processed what that lifestyle shift would mean when I had my final conversation with Oliver and made the decision. During my time here, I’ve learned so much—though it’s hard to put it all into words. I’ve grown a lot as a person, mostly from living with people who are very different from me and navigating life in a completely foreign environment. For the first time, I’ve been cooking for myself, shopping for groceries, and managing day-to-day life independently. Traveling in the fall helped build my confidence and life skills, but nothing compares to this experience. I’m a much different person now than when I arrived, and this program has been incredibly impactful for my personal growth. I feel so much more ready for college life now that I’ve been through VACorps.

Interning abroad thought me so much about Cape Town and myself. My sense of adventure grew more and more throughout my stay. From asking for more responsibilities in my internship site or climbing high rocks on the beach I found myself wanting to know more about everything around me. I stayed in South Africa for 4 weeks but recommend people stay around 6 because there is so much to do. Definitely come into this experience with an open mind and willingness to try new things. It is very easy to fall in love with this city!

I decided to intern abroad because I wanted to combine new experiences with learning. I felt it was important to explore the medical field more deeply before starting college, which is why I pursued an internship. I chose Cape Town because it seemed like a beautiful city, and I was drawn to its mix of beach, mountains, and urban life. What I loved most were the people I met and the wide range of activities we got to do together—everything felt so accessible for visitors. I learned that I’m capable of being completely independent, even in a new country. What I’ll miss most is the everyday adventure of living in Cape Town. I never ended up where I thought I would be when each day began. I stayed for two and a half months, but I’d love to stay longer. I’m a little homesick now, but I know that once I leave, I’ll be homesick for Cape Town instead. For anyone considering interning in Cape Town, my advice is: don’t come with expectations. My experience was totally different from what I imagined—and way more adventurous. We were told to buy what we needed here instead of bringing it all from home, and I didn’t listen. I definitely recommend taking that advice—everything is more affordable here, and you can find whatever you need. I really enjoyed the weekly activities. They were a great way to get outside, hang out with friends, and unwind after a week of work. I’d recommend going on as many as possible. I’m really grateful I had this experience. I feel lucky to have come with such amazing people and to have landed such an interesting internship.

If you ever have been on the fence about going to Cape Town... just do it. This is an experience worth a lifetime. From the work that the VACorps does to enrich your cultural experience to the Friday adventure series to personal adventure to sporting events to the cuisine. There is no place like Cape Town. The people that I met, the adventures I participated in and the internship that I worked has impacted me as an individual and has shaped the way I will live my life in the future. I wanted to push my comfort zone and get to know many people and grow my strength and minimize my weakness of my skills as a clinician. I definitely met those goals during my time here.

I chose the Cape Town study abroad program hoping for even the slightest bit personal and professional development, but I left with my heart completely full and forever changed. My placement, housing, and university experience equally impacted how well I integrated into the community, my new home-away-from-home. I'm grateful for my internship placement because it gave me clarity on my future career. As a public health student, I'm really passionate about making healthcare accessible and equitable. My fieldwork assignments allowed me to harness that passion, and turn it into impact. I connected with community centers who support at-risk populations and visited clinics in townships to manage our research project partnerships. I also really enjoyed the administrative side of my research clinic, helping out with filing, completing transcriptions, and other small tasks that supported my staff in the areas they needed me the most. Through my experiences of learning and collaborating with a team who encouraged and supported my professional development meant the world to me. I loved my housing placement because we all came from different backgrounds, lives, and experiences. We became a family! We cooked together, enjoyed the pool, and explored Observatory hand-in-hand. I felt comfortable to be myself, and in the unique unfamiliar environment of interning abroad they were a sense of comfort I didn't expect to love so intensely. Being able to bond, especially during Friday activities, was amazing! I am really thankful for the VAC staff making each opportunity to embrace our intern community memorable.

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 Cape Town because I wanted to step outside my comfort zone and immerse myself in a culture with different values, languages, traditions, and art. The city’s rich diversity provided exactly that. I was also looking for a place with plenty to do outside of work, and Cape Town, with its blend of mountains, ocean, and vibrant city life, offered endless opportunities. I spent my free time hiking Lion’s Head and Table Mountain, exploring tidal pools in Camps Bay and Kalk Bay, and sampling incredible food at the Old Biscuit Mill and Oranjezicht Market. I pursued two internships in Cape Town to explore different career paths that interested me. At a public hospital, I shadowed and assisted nurses and doctors treating patients from across Africa, gaining hands-on experience in admissions, assisting with births, learning to apply casts, and writing prescriptions. At the Women’s Shelter, I worked with abused women and children, leading both individual and group counseling sessions. This experience allowed me to connect with clients and their families on a deeper level. My time in both settings helped me understand what I value in a work environment. I realized how important it is for me to engage in hands-on work while also forming meaningful connections with colleagues and the people I serve. Now, looking back, I’m grateful for the skills I’ve gained, the people I’ve met, and the personal growth I’ve experienced during this journey.

Overall, my time in Cape Town, working at the Two Oceans Aquarium, has been an incredible experience that has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. I initially pursued this internship to gain clarity on my career path after college and chose Cape Town for its proximity to the ocean and the opportunity to work with the aquarium. Looking back, I’m so grateful for this decision—not only did I achieve my initial goals, but I gained so much more. Professionally, I developed technical skills relevant to my field, gained hands-on experience with marine species, and built valuable connections in marine biology. Beyond that, I grew as a person, learned more about myself, and formed meaningful relationships with both locals and fellow interns in the VACorps program. A key part of my positive experience was the support from VACorps. Even when I faced challenges, like getting sick multiple times, their staff went above and beyond—taking me to the doctor and pharmacy and checking in regularly. Their weekly activities and cultural sessions also enriched my time here, providing fun opportunities to bond with other interns while experiencing Cape Town’s vibrant culture. I am deeply grateful to VACorps for making this experience so rewarding and unforgettable.

Interning in Cape Town was a fantastic way to experience living overseas and embrace a different environment. One of my favourite things about living in Cape Town was having so many exciting things to do at your doorstep. From hikes on Table Mountain, to exploring different markets and restaurants around town, there was always something new and interesting to do. The VAC weekly activities also made certain activities more accessible and created a fun group environment to share many of these experiences with and this was truly appreciated. I spent 2 months interning at a public health research organisation in Cape Town. The organisation was extremely welcoming and got me involved with a variety of aspects of their organisation. This enabled me to gain valuable knowledge and skills that I can now apply to other internship and work opportunities in the future. Finally, the VAC staff were super friendly and always willing to help out with any issues that arose to make our stay in Cape Town as stress-free as possible. I would definitely recommend interning in Cape Town to anyone whose up for a fun adventure in a unique city.

During my process of finalizing and applying for an internship, Cape Town was always at the top of my list. I had many friends and family that have traveled and studied abroad around the world, but South Africa stood out to me. I knew very little about the intricate details of the country’s history, only the big headlines that are synonymous when South Africa is talked about. I saw this as an opportunity to not only pursue a passion of mine with travel and exploration but as an opportunity to engulf myself in a new world so to speak. This exposure allowed me to reflect and learn about myself and what drives me. The realizations were quick as Cape Town and the people I met immediately brought the best out of me and cracked the shy shell that I find myself in too often. Although I had a pretty good hunch, my love for traveling and learning about new locations and people was reinforced. Even after 3 months being away from home, my experiences here have made me eager to stay and even more to explore more of the massive, endless world around us. This may have been what I loved the most about my time in Cape Town. I could also, without hesitation, call something else what I loved the most about my time in Cape Town; the friends I made. Both through VAC and through my internship site, who drastically changed and improved my experience, making the transition to living in an entirely new place that much smoother. My internship site was truly a dream come true, seemingly one of many that occurred during my trip. The Two Oceans Aquarium welcomed me immediately and never failed to make me feel a part of the aquarium team. I was given the opportunity to do more than I expected and take part in many firsts that I will never forget as I continue on this path working with animals. They prepared me immensely well for my, quickly upcoming, search for work in the animal field as I look beyond university and graduation. Overall, my time in Cape Town has been truly amazing, and even still I feel those words don’t do my experiences justice. I would recommend anybody come to Cape Town and even more so do it as a part of VACorps as they embraced us immediately and showered us with new trademark experiences that would leave us all regretful had we not taken part in them. During my entire time in Cape Town, I have been struggling to find a sentence or a quick phrase that sums up how I feel about this place and the people I’ve met and it seems to me that there is too much to encapsulate in a single sentence. This experience has changed me in ways I may not even realize yet and I hope that others can return home from Cape Town with a notion that the same happened, whether it’s good or bad, just that it happened.

My experience in Cape Town has been incredible. I have seen incredible landscapes and animals I was not aware existed. I have learned how to surf, make new friends, and embrace every moment of the day. I have tried new foods and found many new activities that I love. The Friday excursions have been one of my favorite parts of this experience. We are always traveling to some exciting new place. My Internship has also been amazing. I have learned much about my future profession and what I will be expected to do. It has encouraged me to study hard in school and get this job. Everyone has been super nice and supportive in my workplace, and they are always happy to answer questions.

My experience in Cape Town has been incredible. I have seen incredible landscapes and animals I was not aware existed. I have learned how to surf, make new friends, and embrace every moment of the day. I have tried new foods and found many new activities that I love. The Friday excursions have been one of my favorite parts of this experience. We are always traveling to some exciting new place. My Internship has also been amazing. I have learned much about my future profession and what I will be expected to do. It has encouraged me to study hard in school and get this job. Everyone has been super nice and supportive in my workplace, and they are always happy to answer questions. I learned much more about my future career path during this gap year, and that has helped me feel more dedicated to my studies.

VAC has truly been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. From immersing myself in South African culture through vibrant nightlife and connecting with locals, to embarking on the Garden Route Tour and leaping off the highest bungee jump bridge in the world, exploring this country has been an incredible blessing. Living in Cape Town has profoundly changed my perspective, teaching me lessons in generosity, openness, and love—qualities that seem to fill the air here. I wholeheartedly recommend VAC to anyone looking to broaden their horizons and shift their worldview. I sought an opportunity to explore other cultures, discover more about myself, and grow in my art—and I achieved all of that and more. Working with Kuselwa, Kholosa, and Rowan provided me with the support, care, and guidance I needed to feel comfortable and secure, both in my internships and as a foreigner navigating Cape Town. I now feel confident about staying safe, finding enriching experiences, and making the most of this incredible city should I ever return. The VAC staff are exceptionally caring, flexible, and dedicated to ensuring a high-quality experience. They provide personal attention and are always ready to problem-solve or adapt plans when needed. Over the course of three internships, I gained a diverse range of skills and insights, with VAC making each transition smooth and seamless. This adaptability has been invaluable as an artist, helping me grow professionally and personally. Simply put, VAC is the best—better than all the rest!

I chose to stay in Cape Town on a whim. I heard it was beautiful but I didn’t know much else about it. I immediately fell in love with Cape Town and South Africa. I love the culture, the friendliness, the beauty and the sense of home it has provided me for 3 months. Being able to be somewhere so amazing and do the work I love was an experience I’ll be forever grateful for. I enjoyed my site and coworkers so much, and felt that the work I was doing at was important. It solidified my career desires and taught me so much about being a therapist/psychologist. The VAC staff is so attentive and are there for you through everything. I never felt alone knowing Kus and Kholi were a phone call away. I’m so grateful to them and the rest of the VAC staff for their hospitality.

My experience in Cape Town through the VAC program has been a once in a lifetime experience. I got to immerse myself in a new culture and make amazing friends both through the program and with locals. The work-life balance was perfect for me. The internship expectations are high but the reward of going into my internship everyday and giving it my all made it all worth it. My internship allowed me to do things that I would never be able to do where I'm from at my level. I got so much practical experience in my internship, while also having the time to do more touristy and exploring a new culture in a new country. I really enjoyed becoming a local in Observatory having workers know my order was so cool. Plus I got to explore the outdoors in the program through discounts on local attractions and from the close proximity to the beach, mountains, and the dunes. I hiked Table Mountain and Lions Head at sunrise which is something I can brag about for the rest of my life. I also got to experience city life with a vibrant night culture where there was always something to do from trivia nights, karaoke, jazz or jam nights all in different parts of Cape Town. The people here are some of the nicest and most accommodating people I've ever met. I always felt welcomed wherever I went and especially in the VAC programs. I would recommend this program and experience to anyone who would listen to me and I'm so grateful that I got this opportunity and the memories I will carry for the rest of my life.

The VACorps program has been an incredible experience. I appreciated the excellent support, effective placement process, and enriching cultural activities. The application and pre-arrival process were seamless, the orientation week was informative, and the staff support throughout my stay was exceptional. My internship offered substantial professional growth and emphasized the importance of self-motivation. I would strongly recommend VACorps for delivering a valuable and transformative experience.

The VACorps program has been an incredible experience. I appreciated the excellent support, effective placement process, and enriching cultural activities. The application and pre-arrival process were seamless, the orientation week was informative, and the staff support throughout my stay was exceptional. My internship offered substantial professional growth and emphasized the importance of self-motivation. I would strongly recommend VACorps for delivering a valuable and transformative experience.

The reason I chose to do an internship abroad was because I felt it was the next step for my personal, professional, and spiritual growth. I also had a strong sense that Cape Town was the place for me. My dad, who has visited South Africa many times, told me, “You’ll probably want to move there,” and after researching VAC, I knew instantly this was the opportunity I had been waiting for. What I loved most about interning in Cape Town was the chance to immerse myself in the local culture and connect with the people. From the incredible diversity of languages and history to the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant energy, Cape Town quickly became one of my favorite places. I can already see myself living here. The experience also taught me a lot about myself. I discovered that I am even more adaptable than I thought, and I found that I connect with people easily, a trait that was further strengthened during my time here. Professionally, I realized even more deeply that my purpose is to help others, and this experience fueled my passion to step outside my comfort zone, learn as much as I can, and grow in confidence. The best part of my internship was working with such inspiring individuals. I’ve never felt so welcomed and accepted. The values of the organization I worked with—compassion, love, faith, and transformation—are deeply aligned with my own. If I’ve managed to help even one person during my time there, it would have been enough. But knowing the organization helps so many more is incredibly fulfilling. This experience has left a lasting impact on me, and I intend to continue supporting them in any way I can, even from overseas. While I was only there for six weeks (yes, key word: only), I’d recommend staying for longer if you can. I now wish I had done the three-month program, and I’m sure you’ll feel the same way when your six weeks are up! Lastly, I’m extremely grateful for the VAC staff. They are all kind, friendly, and wonderful people. From my initial contact with Oliver, who guided me through the application process, to Loyiso, who picked me up from the airport and helped with all the logistics, to Kholi and Kus, who made the group activities so much fun and always brought positive energy, the staff made me feel supported and at home from day one. Thank you so much for this life-changing experience! P.S. See you again when I move to Cape Town!

Choosing to intern in Cape Town through VAC was one of the best decisions I've made for my career and personal growth. working with a nonprofit focused on supporting pregnant women allowed me to support passionate people who truly make a difference while developing valuable skills in assessment and counselling. The experience was not only professionally rewarding but also deeply fulfilling on a personal level, as I was able to work closely with expectant mothers, helping them navigate this crucial period with guidance and support. Vac provided outstanding support throughout my internship journey, from finding the right placement to ensuring I had everything I needed while I was there. The weekly check-ins and social events organised by VAC made me feel part of a community and helped me build connections with other interns from around the world. The team was always approachable, and it was reassuring to know I could reach out to them anytime I needed advice or assistance. Cape Town itself is an incredible place to live and work, with its beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming people. I fell in love with the city's mix of adventure and warmth, and it quickly felt like a second home.

If you ever have been on the fence about going to Cape Town... just do it. This is an experience worth a lifetime. From the work that the VACorps does to enrich your cultural experience to the Friday adventure series to personal adventure to sporting events to the cuisine. There is no place like Cape Town. The people that I met, the adventures I participated in and the internship that I worked has impacted me as an individual and has shaped the way I will live my life in the future.

I chose Cape Town for its unique cultural experience, something I hadn’t encountered before. After reading about the beautiful sights, welcoming people, and variety of activities available here, I was immediately drawn to the city. The opportunity to experience South Africa while working with a local organization focused on underserved communities was something I truly valued. The mission of the organization, dedicated to serving students in need and providing vital support like physiotherapy, deeply resonated with my own values. I loved every aspect of the experience, from working with the students to trying new foods and activities. The people here are incredibly friendly and open, which was especially comforting as I navigated a new environment and had the chance to learn about their culture in return. I spent 75 days in Cape Town, with 50 of those days working with the organization. I would recommend arriving with some extra time on both ends of the trip to acclimate and plan for major activities. Some internships can be quite time-consuming, so having a little flexibility allows you to enjoy your free time and explore the things you really want to do before you leave. One of the highlights of the trip was the weekly group activities, especially the adventure series, which provided a great way to explore different parts of the region while feeling safe and supported in a group. I’m especially grateful to the staff for making me feel at home during my time abroad. Their support helped me settle in and truly enjoy the experience.

My time in Cape Town taught me so much about kindness, love, curiosity, and slowing down. Cape Town provided me with the most educational and fun three months that I could've asked for on both a personal and professional level. I walked with elephants, skydived, and worked with the most amazing kiddos during my PT internship. I could not be more grateful for my experiences here and all the lessons I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Cape Town was an incredible experience! Everyone at the VAC was welcoming and supportive throughout my time there. They did a fantastic job organizing fun and diverse activities every Friday, where I had the chance to meet many new people and get to know Kus and Kholi well. ? I completed a Physical Therapy internship at an outpatient rehabilitation facility that serves both the private and public healthcare sectors. I worked independently and was exposed to a variety of complex patients. The staff at the clinic was incredibly helpful and welcoming, making me feel comfortable asking anyone anything; they were always willing to assist. It’s a great clinic, and I learned so much! One of my biggest personal achievements during this internship was boosting my confidence. Being completely independent pushed me to trust my instincts and capabilities. I struggled with confidence in my skills before this internship, but I’m leaving with a much stronger sense of self-assurance. I packed so many activities into my time here and definitely kept busy! Some highlights included hiking to Table Mountain (a must-do), exploring all the restaurants at the Waterfront (I loved Den Anker and Sevruga), visiting various weekend markets (Old Biscuit Mill, Oranjz, Muizenberg), enjoying plenty of wine (the wine tram in Franschhoek was both beautiful and fun), and, of course, experiencing the breathtaking views along the Garden Route (plus bungy jumping!). Spending 10 weeks here felt just right, but if you’re visiting in winter, make sure to bring warm clothes, especially for sleeping! I will truly miss everyone at VAC and have cherished every conversation I had with them. They were an amazing highlight of my trip. I had the experience of a lifetime and can’t wait to come back and visit!

My experience in Cape Town with VACorps was amazing, and even after 12 weeks, I found myself never wanting to leave. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed by all the VAC staff and quickly felt at home. The orientation process made me feel comfortable and confident navigating Cape Town on my own, and the Monday and Friday activities were always fun. They offered a great way to experience Cape Town’s culture while meeting fellow interns through VAC. I interned at a special education school for children with cerebral palsy, where I reached my goal of becoming more independent as a physiotherapy student and learned as much as I could from those around me—both about the diverse cultures in Cape Town and about physiotherapy. Working with the children at EROS was incredibly rewarding, and seeing their improvement during my time with them was so gratifying. The highlights of my trip included Cape Town’s stunning scenery and the countless outdoor activities, from hiking to exploring. I also appreciated the VAC staff’s excellent recommendations for experiences outside of the internship, allowing me to enjoy incredible adventures like the Garden Route and paragliding off Signal Hill—both of which were truly life-changing. There is so much to do in Cape Town that even if I stayed twice as long, I would still find new things to explore every week. With the support of VAC, I had an incredible educational and life experience, and I built relationships I hope to maintain for the rest of my life. I can’t recommend this experience enough to future interns!

I chose Cape Town as the place to intern abroad because I wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone and travel to a new place! Cape Town is BEAUTIFUL! Truly, it is the best place to visit! My internship as an elective student at UCT in the audiology department at Groote Schuur Hospital was AMAZING! The staff and students were so friendly! We enjoyed learning from each other and sharing our stories every day. All of my supervisors challenged me to think deeper and apply my knowledge with each patient we saw. They trusted me to help teach their students and guide them through clinical procedures. The biggest highlight at my site was being able to observe two ear surgeries in person! It was the BEST day of my life! Reflecting on my stay, I can see how much I have changed as a person. I am more open-minded, more outgoing, and more accepting of change. I would recommend VACorps to anyone who wants to grow as a person! Cape Town and VACorps will forever hold a special place in my heart!

My time in Cape Town is one I will never forget. With wonderful people, great food, stunning scenery, and fun activities, this is definitely the hardest place for me to say goodbye to. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with smiling faces and enthusiasm from the staff. They not only ensured I felt safe and cared for but also treated everyone they encountered with kindness. My internship was at a medical clinic where I spent time in the Mother and Baby unit. Witnessing new life enter this world is a blessing beyond belief, and I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of such an intimate experience—one that the mothers and I will never forget. I formed lasting relationships with patients and staff at the clinic that will always stay with me. Through my internship, I had the opportunity to empower women during labor and realized that even a simple gesture, like holding someone’s hand, can mean the world to another person. Outside of work, I cherished watching sunsets from Signal Hill, enjoyed exhilarating hikes (I highly recommend Lion’s Head Mountain), and experienced the unforgettable Garden Route Safari. During my time here, I grew immensely as an individual, cultivating relationships that will last a lifetime while also stepping out of my comfort zone and facing my fears. Cape Town has profoundly impacted who I am as a person, and I feel good knowing that I made a positive impact here as well.

Cape Town was a beautiful experience that has provided me with so many cherished memories I will desperately clinging to. I wanted to intern here because I felt that it would be the perfect place to learn about human rights law and it proved to be more than I had imagined. Cape Town has such a rich history with so many museums, organizations, and other avenues to learn more about it. I learned so much at my internship at the Dullah Omar Institute for constitutional law and human rights. I was also able to volunteer at a community organization which was one of my favorite aspects of this experience. I have fallen so in love with Cape Town, the beautiful nature, the art, and the friends I have met.

I chose Cape Town because I absolutely love it here. I visited last year, fell in love with the city, and knew I wanted to come back and work. Especially in film, the city offers so much opportunity. What I loved most was the projects I got to work on. Filming a documentary about the U20 Rugby World Cup winners was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Being part of creating a documentary that’s now been seen by thousands of people has been an absolute pleasure. The connections I’ve made through this experience will last a lifetime. I learned that no matter where I am, I love working in film and collaborating with like-minded creatives from around the world. What I'll miss most are the people, especially at my internship, where I was surrounded by amazing friends. I stayed for three months, which was on the longer side, but I enjoyed it because I had friends here already, even after the other VAC friends returned to the USA. The VAC weekly activities were an awesome way to explore the surrounding areas and learn more about Cape Town. It was also a nice break from work. Everyone at VAC is so welcoming and friendly, and it was truly amazing to be a part of that.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Cape Town. My internship was fantastic, and I felt I gained exactly what I was hoping for. My favorite part of interning in Cape Town was the opportunity to experience a culture different from that in the States. I appreciated the legal research I conducted on the ongoing conversation about Expropriation without compensation in South Africa. It felt incredibly relevant to the real issues currently facing the country and beneficial for my personal goals regarding my legal career back in the States. There were plenty of opportunities, both within my internship and outside of it, to immerse myself in the culture of Cape Town and its surrounding areas. I believe the three-month duration of my stay was ideal for experiencing the local culture. The VACorps staff were awesome—super friendly, easy to talk to, and, most importantly, very accessible in case of any issues. Overall, the program was very well organized, and I felt confident reaching out if I ever needed assistance.

God’s Own Country is how I would best describe Cape Town! Blessed by the vast nature, incredible culture, beautiful people and friends, I had the most surreal experience of a lifetime in Cape Town- I would gladly do it all again starting from my first full day riding in the Red Bus City Tour to the Cango Caves at the end of the Safari Garden Route. I have to say I was a little worried staying here for a solid 2 months as I thought it was large chunk of time, but it genuinely flew by in the wink of an eye! Looking back, we did so much and had a true adventure because at the end of the day it was an immersive cultural and internship experience whereby I am leaving South Africa fulfilled and content with more than I came: a lovely bunch of friends, strong network connection, and gorgeous memories!

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!

I chose to do my internship abroad in Cape Town to challenge myself and gain cultural exposure while building my personal and professional skills as a counselor. One of my main goals was to work with large groups, and I’m grateful for the opportunity I had to do so. I was able to improve in areas where I felt less confident, such as speaking up and taking on leadership roles, especially outside of my comfort zone. Initially, I felt reserved and nervous about expressing myself, but I appreciated how I was constantly encouraged to share my thoughts. I always felt free to ask questions or seek help from the entire staff. During my first month, I struggled with homesickness, but everyone was incredibly supportive. The staff communicated with me in ways that boosted my confidence and made me feel like a valued part of the team. They also helped me meet all my school requirements by signing off on paperwork and meeting with me monthly. I achieved another goal by observing professionals in various roles within my field, such as occupational therapists, psychologists, and nurses. The diverse experiences I gained exceeded my expectations, and I formed lifelong relationships along the way. I am beyond grateful for everything I learned and for the genuine support and love I received. Even after my internship ended, I’ve been visiting the site at least every other week because I love it so much! ? My journey here was more enriching than I could have ever imagined. The sense of belonging I felt was the best part of the trip—being so far from home yet comforted by warm, smiling faces in every interaction made it truly feel like I had a family here. I also enjoyed the weekly cultural series and the open conversations about various topics and issues. Originally, I planned to stay for three months, but I ended up extending my stay to six because I fell in love with the people of Cape Town. What I will miss most are the beautiful beaches, mountains, friendly faces, and delicious food.

Cape Town was not what I expected. I never imagined I would learn so much in just five weeks. The experiences I gained during my internship were truly invaluable and unlike anything I could have found elsewhere. The clinic where I interned was incredibly open, always willing to teach and show me everything. I came here to see if I enjoyed being part of the medical field and whether it was something I wanted to pursue. While I didn’t come to a definite answer, I now have much more insight to guide my decision-making process, and I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything. On top of that, the people at VACorps are some of the kindest I’ve ever met. I feel like I’ve made lifelong friends during this trip. Cape Town is truly a special destination, and five weeks wasn’t nearly enough time to fully experience it. I’ll definitely be coming back soon, and I highly recommend this experience to everyone!

I chose Cape Town because I wanted to explore somewhere new and exciting, and I had never been before! I decided to do an internship here because I wanted something more than just a traditional internship this summer—I wanted to experience public health and medicine in a different part of the world. Interning here was an amazing experience. I got to see and learn things I would never have encountered in the US, especially how healthcare works differently here. I had the opportunity to take part in many medical procedures, and I reached my goals of pushing myself and trying new things. I was also really involved in patient care, which was something I loved. This experience helped me learn a lot about myself, my future goals, and how I want to make a difference in the world. The people I worked with and the friends I made are unforgettable, and I will miss this experience deeply. I stayed for six weeks, but I would recommend staying as long as you can and getting involved in every opportunity that comes your way!

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.

I chose to do an internship in Cape Town because I wanted to experience healthcare outside of the U.S. South Africa is a fantastic place for this due to the HIV/TB epidemic, which is very different from what you encounter in first-world countries. I wanted to contribute to an under-resourced area while also enjoying activities outside of my internship, so Cape Town was the perfect choice—truly the best of both worlds! I absolutely loved Cape Town because there is so much to do, and no matter what you’re into, everyone can find something they enjoy here! I’ll never forget the incredible hands-on experience I gained at the clinic. The doctors and nurses were so eager to teach and gave me opportunities to try various procedures, making it an amazing learning experience. I got to witness labor and deliveries, perform sutures, administer IVs, do post-birth assessments, give immunizations, and gain a broader understanding of the role nurses play in healthcare. I also loved the flexibility of being able to rotate through different departments, which allowed me to shape the experience to fit my needs. It truly exceeded all my expectations! What I’ll miss most are the people. I met so many wonderful individuals here, and I hope the friendships I’ve made will last a lifetime. I stayed for 7 weeks total, including a 1-week orientation, and I think 6 weeks at the internship is just the right amount of time. It gave me the chance to really settle into the work and explore so much of Cape Town in my free time. I’m beyond grateful for the connections and activities VAC provided, and I’ll always look back on this experience with so much fondness!

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!

The Cape Town internship with VAC has been one of the best experiences of my life. I was so nervous coming here, not knowing anyone and never having been to Africa before. But the VAC staff was incredibly welcoming, and all the interns treated me with such kindness and warmth. I’ve never made friends faster or met such a wonderful and diverse group of people. I absolutely loved my house and housemates—it truly felt like a dream to connect with them! I did my internship at a public health research company, where I got to observe the entire public health intervention process from start to finish, which was fascinating. It taught me a lot about how to run a study and what challenges or obstacles to look out for. I also learned how to handle unexpected issues, like technical problems with online forms or money transfers. The experience was so informative and gave me skills I hadn’t gained in school! There’s so much to see here in Cape Town, and the VAC staff organized many amazing activities. I’m going to miss sunsets at the beach, hiking around Table Mountain, and exploring all the cool coffee shops and restaurants in the area. If you’re considering this internship, PLEASE DO IT! Cape Town is absolutely magical, and it will definitely be one of the best experiences of your life. I understand safety is a concern for many when thinking about this trip (it was for me), but once I arrived, I quickly learned how to stay safe and be vigilant. I haven’t had any bad experiences here! As long as you have street smarts, you’ll be perfectly fine. This truly has been an incredible experience, and I’ll cherish the memories and friendships I made here for life. To anyone thinking about joining the VAC program, I strongly encourage you to go for it. You’ll gain valuable work experience and meet some of the best people you’ll ever know!

After graduating from college, I was eager to gain hands-on experience in counseling, youth development, and public health. VAC was the perfect resource for this. Working closely with me to understand my values and interests, the wonderful program advisors at VAC matched me with a maternal health organization. Committed to educating, empowering, and supporting expecting mothers, this organization provides crucial assistance to women facing vulnerabilities such as age, immigrant status, and domestic violence. These social determinants significantly impact their mental and physical well-being, which in turn affects the health of their unborn children. Witnessing the resilience of both my co-workers and the women they serve amidst such adversity has truly inspired me. I am immensely grateful to these women for welcoming me into their fold and guiding me through these transformative experiences. Their mentorship has reinforced my passion for youth development, counseling, and global health, leaving me even more motivated to make an impact. I cannot thank VAC enough for supporting me in this journey and making Cape Town feel like a home!

I am very happy with my decision to come to Cape Town for my first internship experience within the field of human rights and public interest law. My decision was based on several reasons, but the main one was that the work being done in South Africa in the field of human rights was very inspiring to me. I felt this was the perfect place to observe how human rights issues were being addressed within an organization. Doing an internship in Cape Town with the human rights law internship allowed me to experience the type of work attorneys and candidate attorneys were involved in. I am very grateful for the opportunity to contribute, even in a small way, through the research, notes, and tasks assigned to me within the organization. One of the most valuable experiences for me at the human rights law internship was getting to know the people who worked there and hearing their experiences. I also appreciated the chance to visit schools in different areas of Cape Town to understand the variations within the school systems. The organization had a very welcoming environment; everyone was open to talking with and getting to know the interns and allowed us to be part of their work. This was a great experience, and I would definitely recommend future interns take the opportunity to work there. Living in Cape Town was also a wonderful experience. I met many amazing people and formed friendships that I believe will last a lifetime. I will miss everyone and the vibrant atmosphere that Cape Town offered. I stayed in Cape Town for about five weeks, and although I managed to experience many events, places, and cultures within the city, I would recommend future interns stay a bit longer to fully explore and enjoy everything they want to, as time flies by quickly! The weekly activities offered by VACorps included a wide range of experiences, from surfing and visiting Seal Island to hiking and wine tasting. Combined with cultural nights where we learned about South African traditions such as beaded jewelry, food, and films, these experiences allowed me to get to know Cape Town in a way that I wouldn’t have been able to by just visiting as a tourist. I am grateful to the VACorps staff for being kind, fun, and welcoming, and for introducing me to amazing people and the city of Cape Town. I will never forget this experience!

Cape Town proved to be an exceptional choice for my internship. The city offers an incredible blend of natural beauty and cultural diversity, providing endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. From its stunning landscapes to its wide range of activities, Cape Town is also an affordable destination, making it easy to maximize both work and leisure during your stay. During my time in Cape Town, I had the pleasure of hiking Lion’s Head, an experience that rewarded me with breathtaking views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. Horse ride along Noordhoek Beach, and skydiving was an unforgettable highlight. One of the most memorable parts of my trip was exploring the Garden Route, a must-do for anyone visiting South Africa. The route is filled with spectacular landscapes, and I had the chance to experience activities like bungee jumping and kayaking. The safari, where I observed the Big Five in their natural habitat, was another extraordinary experience that deepened my appreciation for the country’s rich biodiversity. Beyond the adventures, my stay in Cape Town was enriched by the diverse people I met. I connected with individuals from various cultures and countries, which broadened my perspective and enhanced my experience. Professionally, I achieved my goals of gaining insights into a different healthcare system, expanding my medical knowledge both theoretically and practically, and interacting with patients and their families from diverse cultural backgrounds. Cape Town not only met but exceeded my expectations, offering a perfect balance between professional growth and personal adventure.

I am so happy that I chose to intern abroad in Cape Town with VAC; looking back, it was definitely a highlight of my Gap Year. Cape Town is an incredible city, rich in history and full of fun activities. Obs, specifically, has a lot of really cute coffee shops and thrift stores, and I loved exploring Lower Main. Living in an environment surrounded by other like-minded Gap Year students who were passionate about their respective internships was truly inspiring. Even though we all had separate internships, we were experiencing Cape Town together, and I loved hearing about the different work everyone was doing. I am particularly grateful for my time working with my internship supervisor. I learned so much from spending time in the office, attending high court sessions, writing and drafting opinions, reading cases, researching case law, and sitting in on client meetings. Witnessing my supervisor in every aspect of his job was an incredible learning experience. It was fascinating to learn about South African Law, especially after studying American Law, and being able to compare and contrast the similarities and differences. Some of the highlights of my internship included sitting in on client meetings and researching and analyzing case law relevant to the cases my supervisor was working on. I not only learned a lot from my internship but also gained valuable life skills during this experience—like managing my free time, living with others, and navigating day-to-day life in another country. I stayed for 8 weeks, but I definitely could have stayed longer. It was the perfect amount of time to settle into my internship and environment, as well as do all the activities I wanted. Anything less would have been too short. My favorite activities involved spending time outdoors—whether it was hiking, going to the beach, or just exploring. The sunsets in Cape Town are incredible, and I would highly recommend going to the beach for a sunset picnic. Additionally, the VAC staff were so kind and helpful; they were always there if I needed anything.

From my very first day and night in Cape Town, I felt a deep sense of nostalgia. Whether gazing out of my bedroom window, strolling the streets of Obs, or absorbing the air, water, and mountains, it felt as though I had been here before. This sensation was both confusing and comforting. Even before meeting the people who would become my friends and family, I felt a strong sense of belonging. This feeling was only reinforced during orientation and throughout the following three months. As I explored the city on tours and rode the red bus, I felt my life unfolding and expanding in ways I had never experienced before. I was introduced to new sights, sounds, thoughts, and emotions—nearly overwhelming, yet empowering as I saw myself growing more capable. I worked at a communications agency focused on partnering with brands that drive positive change. The environment was incredibly welcoming, inclusive, and spiritually enriching, with a team dedicated to improving the lives of others. Although the hours were manageable, the impact was profound. The office was small and intimate, providing a comforting, homey atmosphere. Lucky opportunities allowed me to travel and meet fascinating people across Cape Town and South Africa. For instance, I accompanied my boss to George for a two-day shoot in February, which offered a chance to explore the countryside and broaden my perspective on both South Africa and myself. I also completed a short documentary about gardening in the townships, which is a valuable addition to my filmmaking portfolio and a key marketing tool for Life Brand and the client. As I continued to embrace new activities, experiences, and people, I immersed myself fully in every moment. Now, three months later, I am the same person I was when I arrived, but only because of my time here. The coincidences and experiences make me wonder if this was all chance or fate. I am profoundly grateful for this place, these people, and this experience.

VAC is such an amazing program! Through this program, I have been connected to great people, adventures, and an amazing internship. I’m so grateful for this experience. I learned confidence communication, faith and gained insight into new cultures and the way of life in Cape Town. When I was doing research VAC was so clear and made the process so easy. It stayed true to its words and made my stay so smooth and fun! Thank you to all the vac people! To others who will be joining this program in the future, make the most of your time! It will go by fast but dive into it quickly and deeply. Make connections with your coworkers they are amazing people.

During my gap year, I sought a new and different experience, and Cape Town, through VAC, turned out to be the perfect choice. I’m deeply grateful for the challenges, learning opportunities, and cultural experiences I encountered. To my surprise, after just three months, Cape Town began to feel like home. Thanks to VAC, I built lasting friendships, formed deep connections with my internship colleagues, and found a true sense of belonging. I worked at two diverse internship sites: An NGO that supports vulnerable elderly people and the legal advocacy center for refugees. VAC’s flexibility allowed me to gain invaluable experience at both. I bonded closely with the strong and caring “grannies” who feel like family. At my law placement, I took on significant responsibilities, such as writing court documents and meeting with clients, which greatly enriched my experience. I chose to extend my stay by a month, which was beneficial for fully experiencing both internships. Though adjusting from living with twenty gap year students to a smaller group of interns was a shift, I wouldn’t change a thing and highly recommend extending if you’re considering taking on multiple internships. The most memorable aspect of VAC was the people I met. The bonds formed with my fellow VAC participants are incredibly special, and I’m excited to maintain these friendships back in the US. VAC’s environment facilitated connections I wouldn’t have made otherwise, leading to some of my most valued relationships. Cape Town itself is an extraordinary city with endless natural beauty, culture, and activities. I hope to return someday and continue exploring all it has to offer.

My time in the Mother City has been both special and intense, enriching me in countless ways, personally and professionally. My first week here was incredibly impactful, as I was positively overwhelmed by all the amazing sights. Observatory quickly became my favorite neighborhood with its vibrant and youthful energy. I didn’t just make friends here—I found a family. Strangers from all over the world became like brothers and sisters to me, and I hope to stay in touch with each one of them. My internship was stimulating and offered me the chance to challenge myself with interesting and relevant projects. My boss was incredibly supportive and approachable, which made the experience even better. I worked on three distinct projects, each of which was both engaging and intellectually rewarding. Throughout this time, I improved my legal and technical English and became more comfortable using various tools on my laptop. Skills like drafting documents, time management, and flexibility became second nature. At the beginning, I was quite nervous since this was my first long-term experience abroad on my own. However, during difficult moments, there was always someone there to help—whether it was a friend or someone from VACorps. After two months, I’m leaving Cape Town with a profound sense of melancholy but also deep gratitude. I truly hope to return one day!

I came to Cape Town with an open mind, eager to learn about everything it had to offer. Now, as this program comes to an end, I find myself completely in love with this city. I spent my days at the beautiful beaches and participated in so many exciting activities through VACorps. One of the highlights for me was the trip along the Garden Route. I went bungee jumping, kayaked through stunning cliffs, walked with elephants, and had an incredible bonding experience with my peers on this program. While exploring the breathtaking sights of Cape Town was a lot of fun, I also had the privilege of interning at GAPA. Working closely with the elderly women in Khayelitsha was such a rewarding experience. I deeply value being a part of an incredibly close-knit, loving community. I’m honestly so sad to be leaving Cape Town because there’s still so much left for me to see and do. But I know for sure—I’ll definitely be coming back!

I came to Cape Town with an open mind, eager to learn about everything it had to offer. Now, as this program comes to an end, I find myself completely in love with this city. I spent my days at the beautiful beaches and participated in so many exciting activities through VACorps. One of the highlights for me was the trip along the Garden Route. I went bungee jumping, kayaked through stunning cliffs, walked with elephants, and had an incredible bonding experience with my peers on this program. While exploring the breathtaking sights of Cape Town was a lot of fun, I also had the privilege of interning at GAPA. Working closely with the elderly women in Khayelitsha was such a rewarding experience. I deeply value being a part of an incredibly close-knit, loving community. I’m honestly so sad to be leaving Cape Town because there’s still so much left for me to see and do. But I know for sure—I’ll definitely be coming back!

After considering several options for my gap year, I chose Cape Town because of its unique geography and culture, which promised a new and enriching experience. I knew I wanted to spend my gap year doing an internship to keep myself engaged in learning and to immerse myself in a completely new environment. Cape Town, with its beaches and mountains, offered the perfect backdrop for my adventure. The city has so many diverse parts to explore, allowing me to experience various cultures, observe nature, and meet interesting people. During my time in Cape Town, I engaged in a lot of self-reflection, which helped me identify my core values and determine what matters most to me as I transition into the next chapter of my life. Being away from my familiar surroundings forced me to become more confident in my independence and embrace the discomfort of the unknown. I spent eight weeks in Cape Town, which felt like an ideal duration, though I wouldn’t have minded staying longer. By the end of my stay, I had grown comfortable with the city’s layout and my neighborhood, Obz, where I made many friends among the locals and found favorite spots like cafes and beaches. Before arriving, I had some uncertainty about my internship on the farm, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. Watching the progression of produce from seed to harvest was uniquely rewarding. One highlight was meeting customers at the farm who were genuinely grateful for their fresh produce. I felt fulfilled being part of a community-serving initiative. The VACorps staff were supportive, always willing to help, and organized weekly activities that brought everyone together. I am grateful for the friendships I formed through the program and with people outside of it. Before coming, it’s helpful to learn about South Africa’s history, city layout, safety tips, and cultural nuances to fully appreciate the experience.

After considering several options for my gap year, I chose Cape Town because of its unique geography and culture, which promised a new and enriching experience. I knew I wanted to spend my gap year doing an internship to keep myself engaged in learning and to immerse myself in a completely new environment. Cape Town, with its beaches and mountains, offered the perfect backdrop for my adventure. The city has so many diverse parts to explore, allowing me to experience various cultures, observe nature, and meet interesting people. During my time in Cape Town, I engaged in a lot of self-reflection, which helped me identify my core values and determine what matters most to me as I transition into the next chapter of my life. Being away from my familiar surroundings forced me to become more confident in my independence and embrace the discomfort of the unknown. I spent eight weeks in Cape Town, which felt like an ideal duration, though I wouldn’t have minded staying longer. By the end of my stay, I had grown comfortable with the city’s layout and my neighborhood, Obz, where I made many friends among the locals and found favorite spots like cafes and beaches. Before arriving, I had some uncertainty about my internship on the farm, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. Watching the progression of produce from seed to harvest was uniquely rewarding. One highlight was meeting customers at the farm who were genuinely grateful for their fresh produce. I felt fulfilled being part of a community-serving initiative. The VACorps staff were supportive, always willing to help, and organized weekly activities that brought everyone together. I am grateful for the friendships I formed through the program and with people outside of it. Before coming, it’s helpful to learn about South Africa’s history, city layout, safety tips, and cultural nuances to fully appreciate the experience.

I chose VACorps because they were an incredible stepping stone for traveling abroad on my own. They first meet with you and introduce you to the program, then pair you with a program advisor who is incredibly helpful in finding an internship that aligns with your goals. Not only do they place you in a great internship, but they also provide housing options filled with roommates who are part of the program. Living in a house with others who are on the same journey—exploring the world, interning abroad, and meeting like-minded people—makes a world of difference. The individuals I have met in the program are some of the most incredible, kind, and amazing people I have ever met. I have truly made lifelong friends on this journey, thanks to VAC's housing options. Along with housing, VACorps makes it easy to explore and bond with the people you meet through their weekly activities. The program organizes excursions, taking the pressure off you to plan everything. They organize activities like surfing, city tours, wine tasting, market visits, and hikes, which allowed me to explore with ease and bond with fellow interns. Not only are the housing, excursions, and overall experience amazing, but VACorps is also the most incredible organization for those looking to intern abroad alone for the first time. They provide a sense of security that is incredibly comforting when traveling so far from home at a young age while also giving you the freedom to explore on your own. There was a point during my stay when I became quite sick, and I was able to message Kholi, a member of the VACorps staff, who immediately organized a doctor’s visit for me. She came with me to the doctor and waited for my appointment to be over, which was a small act but made a world of difference when traveling alone. The staff and program are set up so well that I would recommend them to anyone and everyone! I cannot articulate how incredible this experience was for me! The internship, friendships, and support were amazing. I am so thankful for the opportunity to be part of the program and will cherish these memories forever! :)

I love my time in Cape Town with the VA Corps program! I had an amazing sustainability internship placement at a community garden. I met amazing people and had a great time exploring South Africa! I learned so much about agricultural and sustainable farming practices.

Before coming to Cape Town, I had never lived away from home or in a different country. This was the best gap year experience I could have had. I learned so much every day by exploring this amazing city, which I had never visited before. Additionally, I gained incredible work experience and discovered a lot about what I want to study when I start school next fall. This program provided exactly what I was looking for this fall. My personal goals for my internship experience were to determine if content creation for social media and photography were interests I wanted to pursue at university. I discovered that I really enjoy this type of work and would like to continue it in the future. I loved my internship because it offered a mix of activities; sometimes, I even got to get in the water with clients and help teach, which was super fun. Through my work, I met clients from all over the world, which was both fun and interesting. The people I met during my time with VAC have become lifelong friends. Everyone working at VAC was always available whenever my roommates or I needed anything, and they made Cape Town feel like home as soon as I stepped off the plane. The Friday and Monday activities were amazing because they allowed me to see everyone from VAC, have a great time, and share lots of laughs while participating in super cool activities. Overall, my time in Cape Town was transformative, leaving me with unforgettable memories, new friendships, valuable skills, and a clearer direction for my future studies and career.

Cape Town is one of the most interesting cities in the world. I never expected it to be the way it is. It is very multicultural and you will meet so many different and interesting people both within VACorps and outside. The city is incredibly alive and vibrant and there is always something to do and new places to try. The best part of my time in Cape Town was getting to know the other people in my program that I lived with. We became a family and shared many experiences that I will never forget. I loved getting to explore the area surrounding Cape Town, the Western Cape is such a beautiful place and is worth getting to know. There are great beaches everywhere and the natural scenery is unmatched. I did my internship at with a clean energy consultant, and I learned a lot. I did a lot of broad research on the energy context in South Africa but also in other African countries. My boss gave me assignments that were interesting and allowed me to learn more about how the work being done to transition the country to clean energy. This experience taught me that the world is a much bigger place than I thought. Cape Town is so multicultural that you cannot help but learn things about the rest of the world and the history that shaped this beautiful country.

I chose Cape Town for my gap year because it’s a place I’ve never been to before, and friends who have done gap year programs in South Africa before loved it, so I thought, why not? I decided to do an internship to gain work experience before starting college. There are many things I love about interning, one of them being the opportunity to learn more about myself and what I am capable of as an individual. I realized that I am a lot stronger than I thought and pushed myself to do things I would never have done before. I will never forget the lifelong friends I made at my site and will always be thankful for my internship. While working was a huge highlight of my trip, living in Observatory and being able to walk everywhere was also amazing. Coffee shops and stores were so close by, and I loved every second of it. I will miss it when I go home. I stayed in Cape Town with VACorps for about three months. If you adjust quickly, I’d say that’s the perfect amount of time. For me, I wish I could stay longer because it’s just now starting to feel like home. What really helped me adjust to a new place was the staff and the group activities we did, which were definitely one of the highlights of my trip. VACorps not only gives off a familial vibe but has actively transformed it into a reality for us. I am immensely thankful to VACorps for numerous reasons. The assurance that our entire household could depend on them during a frightening situation was profoundly meaningful and comforting. I experienced a profound sense of satisfaction when I discovered my capability to engage in and successfully navigate activities that were entirely new to me. Witnessing my own growth and adaptability in tackling unfamiliar challenges provided a sense of accomplishment and fostered newfound confidence in my abilities. This revelation not only expanded my skill set but also significantly contributed to my personal development, highlighting the value of embracing and conquering novel experiences. Overall, this was an amazing experience with amazing people, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything!

I had an amazing experience with VACorps! My internship was a perfect fit, and I made wonderful friends while doing lots of fun activities. The Friday activities were always unique and exciting. My favorites were the day at Boulders Beach, the brewery tour, and the hikes! Monday culture nights were also fantastic, and I learned so much. I especially enjoyed trying food at Ivy’s Kitchen, the drumming night, and watching a movie at the office. I’m very grateful I found VACorps. I interned at a marketing and brand management company and learned many new skills, like using a camera, creating social media plans, and meeting with clients. I also became much more confident in my business abilities and communication skills. I really appreciated how my boss encouraged me to explore Cape Town and took me to many cool places. The environment was very collaborative, and they gave the interns a lot of responsibility. Overall, my time with VACorps was unforgettable. I gained valuable skills, made lifelong friends, and had experiences I’ll cherish forever. I highly recommend VACorps to anyone looking for a meaningful and fun internship abroad.

These last two months have been nothing short of an amazing life experience. I have been here for two months, but I wish I could’ve stayed longer. I have grown personally and professionally. The VACorps staff have been so patient with all of us, and they have always been there to answer our questions and to make sure that we are enjoying our experience in Cape Town. I have learned so much at my internship and could not have asked for a better placement. Time flies so fast here, and I would tell any future VACorps intern to take advantage of most of their free time, especially on the weekends. Before arriving in CT, I created a travel guide that I used while I was here. I wanted to make sure that I got to see and do everything I wanted. There’s so much to see and do in Cape Town. I enjoyed all of the Monday night culture series and the Friday VAC activities. The team really takes their time to make sure we have the best experiences while in Cape Town. Having lived in South Africa before, I was very familiar with the culture and traditions in other provinces; however, I have learned so much about the history and culture in Cape Town. It was really eye-opening to see how poverty affects the different communities. As you prepare to arrive in Cape Town, it is important to do your own research on the history of the country and also the area where you will be working. The one thing I loved about living in CT was being able to see the mountains at any point in time. I will miss the friends I made in Cape Town, my supervisors at my internship site, and the VACorps staff, especially Kholi, Kuselwa, and Loyiso!

I chose to come to Cape Town because I wanted to explore a new place and its stunning landscapes and beautiful scenery were a big attraction for me. South Africa’s history fascinated me, especially since it relates to my career aspirations. Opting for an internship was my way of figuring out what I enjoy, particularly because I aim to work in diverse settings and cultures. What I cherished most about Cape Town? Definitely the people. They’re incredibly warm and welcoming, and the community here buzzes with energy. Cape Town has been a classroom of self-discovery for me, helping me solidify my career path and appreciate diverse perspectives. I owe a lot of this experience to Kus, Kohli, Rowan, Loyiso, and the rest of the VAC team. They made me feel right at home. The cultural series and Friday activities were fantastic opportunities to bond with fellow interns and delve deeper into South African culture. Although I initially planned to stay for just two months, I’ve extended my stay by a month, and I am not looking forward to saying goodbye to this beautiful city and all the amazing people I have met here! I’d recommend anyone visiting Cape Town to stay for three months to truly soak in its beauty. I’m immensely grateful for the enriching experiences at work, exploring townships and schools, and meeting inspiring colleagues. Cape Town and VAC hold a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to return one day.

I chose Cape Town initially to experience a culture more removed from the Westernized American and European cultures I had experienced prior. I am so happy to say that I did! My experience in South Africa was so warm, welcoming, and playful! It taught me that the workplace has a place for compassion, friendship, and silliness. I connected with many wonderful people who extended their friendship and homes to me as a visitor. In addition to this life-changing social experience, I was also able to use my time away from work to explore the beautiful nature of Cape Town like the beaches and Table Mountain! I also thoroughly enjoyed the Garden Route and visiting Kruger, and was able to see all the wonderful animals! Working with Kelly and the women of MOSAIC was inspiring and eye-opening into the realities of gender-based violence and social work here, and helped me shape my ideas about my future career. I will miss the kindness and friendliness of everyone in Cape Town the most! I stayed for 8 weeks and found it was just enough time to get comfortable here and experience what I wanted to. I would tell people to research South Africa and educate themselves so they can make the most of their experience here. I am so incredibly grateful for the VACorps staff and their love and support; they were the perfect family away from home!

I chose Cape Town because of its cultural intersection. It feels like a microcosm of the world where extreme wealth and poverty meet. It's particularly fascinating due to its rich history as a post-conflict society. Opting for an internship allowed me to learn in an immersive work environment. I cherished my time in Cape Town and eagerly anticipate returning in the summertime. I gained valuable insights into law, policy, and research, as well as experiencing significant personal growth that textbooks couldn't provide. Living in Cape Town for two months, I was most enamored with the people and the sense of community. If you're considering this program, I highly recommend engaging with the community and fostering genuine, sustainable relationships. VACorps excelled at making me feel welcome and part of their community.

The rich political, economic, and cultural history of South Africa offers numerous learning opportunities unique to this location, fueling my fascination with working in Cape Town. The diversity and multicultural atmosphere under a now united nation create a beautiful melting pot of culture and an incredible experience to immerse in. I was particularly drawn to this location because of the significant strides made in its healthcare system compared to the limited or nonexistent healthcare under the past Apartheid regime. I am passionate about how the nation has addressed public health crises and continues to do so, especially concerning the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The experience I had here surpassed all of my expectations, and I am forever grateful for this place and the wonderful people I met. I was able to diversify my interests, knowledge, and experiences in a way that I don’t think I could have achieved elsewhere. This is thanks to the wonderful city of Cape Town, my lovely fellow interns and classmates, and the beautiful people at VAC. My time over the last 8 weeks has been so enriching and captivating that I cannot wait to return.

When I stumbled upon the VAC program, I found a unique opportunity for personal and academic growth. By participating in this program, I expanded my horizons beyond the classroom, gaining real-world experiences that transcend cultural and socioeconomic boundaries. Interacting with children in a volunteer capacity provided me with a chance to develop empathy, resilience, and leadership skills while making a positive impact on young lives. Moreover, this experience has served as a valuable exploration of my passions, allowing me to discover the joy and fulfillment derived from making a meaningful contribution to society. Through the VAC program, I have not only been able to give back but also uncover insights that will shape my future endeavors and foster a deepened sense of purpose.

Choosing to do an internship in South Africa was my way of stepping into the unknown and discovering more about the world. Cape Town stole my heart with its breathtaking beauty and friendly people. In this experience, I learned I'm capable of much more than I imagined. At first, I felt overwhelmed and struggled during my initial orientation week. But with time, I found comfort and friendship among my roommates and VACorps staff. Working at the clinic opened my eyes to how much I still have to learn about healthcare, and the dedication of the doctors and nurses inspired me every day. I cherished every opportunity to learn and grow, especially the hands-on experiences I could never have in a classroom. Saying goodbye after four weeks was tough—I wished I could stay longer. I encourage others to stay for 6-8 weeks to truly embrace the culture and community. Being part of weekly culture series and group activities brought me so much joy. And I can't thank the VACorps staff enough for guiding me through this unforgettable experience. It's been a journey of self-discovery and gratitude—one I'll treasure forever.

After consulting with the VACorps staff, I confidently selected Cape Town as my preferred internship destination. Their support and guidance gave me the assurance to explore a new field of work, and their continuous assistance throughout my time in Cape Town was invaluable. I felt thoroughly prepared for every aspect of my internship. During my two-month stay, I worked at a marketing and brand management company, where I had the opportunity to collaborate with various non-profit organizations within the company's portfolio. Despite lacking a heavy background in marketing or business, I engaged in diverse projects and particularly enjoyed working in the townships. Cape Town offers an abundance of activities to fill your time, and the weekly organized events were both enjoyable and well-coordinated. I deeply appreciate the staff's unwavering availability and assistance. Cape Town offers a rich tapestry of cultures, providing an immersive experience unlike any other!

VACorps provides their interns with amazing adventures and loving attitudes. The first week for orientation was my favorite time, building relationships with other interns and the staff was wonderful. I enjoyed all the experiences I attended that VAC curated and facilitated for us. Our amazing hosts, Kholi and Kus, always made the excursions more exciting and comfortable. There are so many opportunities to learn about South African culture and places to explore with VAC with their culture nights and weekly excursions. The internship VAC was able to connect me with was truly wonderful. I am so grateful to have experienced such a wonderful institution and to have been able to give back to the community with the services I provided. I am an Occupational Therapy student and I interned at an intermediate care practice for children with chronic illness and disabilities. I fell in love with the kids and the staff as they were the most welcoming and warm hearted people I have ever met. What I truly loved about the site is that they prided themselves on always greeting each other throughout the facility, no matter who you were. It allowed all of us who were new to greet others even if we didn’t know each other, provided comfort in knowing it was a safe space. After 2 months I felt as if I was a staff member of the institution, walking the halls, greeting everyone, hugging the kids, I felt at home. One nurse saw me as I was making my usual rounds and she said to me, “you look like you belong here, I hope you stay”. At that moment I realized this internship will come to an end and I was hit with a wave of grief. I have felt such intense emotions since I arrived in Cape Town, now that my time has ended I am filled with intense emotions once again. For this entire experience I am truly grateful and humbled and appreciate all the support I was provided from VAC and my internship site. I highly recommend VAC to anyone who is interested in exploring Cape Town and has an interest in giving back to communities. Thank you VAC for everything, you hold a special place in my heart. Until next time, cheers ?

I chose to intern in Cape Town because of its unparalleled beauty and diverse offerings, from the mountains to the gorgeous beaches and the vibrant culture of its people. I have had an amazing experience getting to know this city and have been so grateful to live here for the past two months. I did my internship with an immigration law firm and learned so much during my time there. I was entrusted with significant responsibilities and felt that my contributions were both impactful and valued. I was able to draft documents, search for case law, sit in on trials, and deliver documents to the high court. This internship gave me immense insight into the field of immigration law, and I’m leaving Cape Town knowing that it is, in fact, something I am incredibly passionate about and cannot wait to pursue as a potential future career path. I truly believe that the people make the place and will never forget the connections I’ve made here. Living with other interns made this experience so much more fun because I always had people to hang out with whether at our apartments, exploring Cape Town, getting food, or going out. Some of my favorite activities I did with my friends were taking the cable car up Table Mountain for sunset, visiting Robben Island, walking to our favorite restaurants in Observatory, wine tasting in the beautiful vineyards, seeing penguins at Boulders Beach, and exploring the city on the red bus tour. The staff at VACorps are so helpful and supportive, and I knew that I could go to them with any questions or problems, or if I ever just wanted to say hi. The Friday activities scheduled by the staff were always a highlight of my week. Bringing together the gap year students and college students was a fun way to connect with even more people. One of my favorite Friday activities was our last one where we got to go out on a boat and see seals, dolphins, penguins, and a beautiful view of the city. Other favorites were visiting seal island, a surfing lesson at Muizenberg Beach, and exploring Cape Point. Reflecting on my time in Cape Town fills me with gratitude and fond memories. The supportive community at my internship site and VACorps, coupled with unforgettable experiences shared with newfound friends, have left an indelible mark on me. I leave with a profound appreciation for this enriching journey and am already looking forward to returning to this extraordinary city.

I chose to intern in Cape Town because of its unparalleled beauty and diverse offerings, from the mountains to the gorgeous beaches and the vibrant culture of its people. I have had an amazing experience getting to know this city and have been so grateful to live here for the past two months. I did my internship with an immigration law firm and learned so much during my time there. I was entrusted with significant responsibilities and felt that my contributions were both impactful and valued. I was able to draft documents, search for case law, sit in on trials, and deliver documents to the high court. This internship gave me immense insight into the field of immigration law, and I’m leaving Cape Town knowing that it is, in fact, something I am incredibly passionate about and cannot wait to pursue as a potential future career path. I truly believe that the people make the place and will never forget the connections I’ve made here. Living with other interns made this experience so much more fun because I always had people to hang out with whether at our apartments, exploring Cape Town, getting food, or going out. Some of my favorite activities I did with my friends were taking the cable car up Table Mountain for sunset, visiting Robben Island, walking to our favorite restaurants in Observatory, wine tasting in the beautiful vineyards, seeing penguins at Boulders Beach, and exploring the city on the red bus tour. The staff at VACorps are so helpful and supportive, and I knew that I could go to them with any questions or problems, or if I ever just wanted to say hi. The Friday activities scheduled by the staff were always a highlight of my week. Bringing together the gap year students and college students was a fun way to connect with even more people. One of my favorite Friday activities was our last one where we got to go out on a boat and see seals, dolphins, penguins, and a beautiful view of the city. Other favorites were visiting seal island, a surfing lesson at Muizenberg Beach, and exploring Cape Point. Reflecting on my time in Cape Town fills me with gratitude and fond memories. The supportive community at my internship site and VACorps, coupled with unforgettable experiences shared with newfound friends, have left an indelible mark on me. I leave with a profound appreciation for this enriching journey and am already looking forward to returning to this extraordinary city.

My time with VACorps has been nothing short of amazing. I have made many memories that will last a lifetime. I built incredibly strong relationships with the staff as well as other interns, and it has been extremely emotional having to say goodbye to everyone. I got to do so many things during this journey, including scuba diving, hiking Lion's Head, many beach days, quad biking in the sand dunes, skydiving, and much, much more! My internship placement was the greatest place I have ever worked, and I absolutely adored the people I worked with. If anyone is hesitant about doing this program, I would fully encourage them to just do it as this will change their life in so many ways. It makes me sad having to say goodbye to all the people and the place, but I feel so lucky to have had this wonderful experience.

I’ve cherished my time in Cape Town and am immensely grateful for the incredible experience provided by VACorps. When I was searching for gap year programs, VACorps stood out as the perfect blend of freedom and support. After spending 2.5 months here, I can confidently say I made the right choice. Upon arrival, the VACorps staff ensured our comfort and readiness for life in this amazing city through thorough orientation. Even after orientation ended, the staff remained accessible for questions and recommendations. I appreciated the balance of working in an internship while also having the opportunity to explore Cape Town during our Friday activities. This experience taught me a great deal and fostered my independence. Cape Town offers a plethora of activities, and I found myself stepping out of my comfort zone and trying new things. Moreover, I formed meaningful connections with fellow students, thanks to the orientation and shared living arrangements. Their support and camaraderie added immeasurable value to my experience. I did my internship at a marketing and brank management company. It was very hands-on, and not only did I learn a lot, but I felt like the work I was doing made a meaningful contribution to the company. I was given opportunities to work directly with brands and go to real life events to shoot content. I enjoyed seeing the posts I made on the different brands social media platforms. The work environment was wonderful, and I felt very included and a part of it. My supervisor was very supportive and made time for us to check in everyday, which was very helpful. I owe much of my personal growth, lifelong friendships, and unforgettable memories to VACorps, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to others.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Cape Town and South Africa. I formed lifelong friendships and created unforgettable memories. Cape Town truly offers something for everyone, from its pristine beaches and expansive ocean views to its vineyards and beautiful mountains. It is undeniably an amazing place to visit. The staff at VA Corps are exceptionally helpful and dedicated to the success of each student, ensuring they are placed in meaningful internships. During my time with a boating conservation company, I not only learned a great deal but also felt like a valued member of the team. Beyond my internship, I had the opportunity to explore the vibrant city of Cape Town and its surrounding areas. The possibilities for activities seemed endless, ranging from surfing, paragliding, and exploring sand dunes to wine tasting and immersing myself in the local culture.

I fell in love with this beautiful city, its landscapes, and its people. I decided to come here as a political science student because the history of this country fascinated me. This internship at a sustainable development NGO helped me gain a better understanding of it and nuanced my knowledge. It was my end-of-master's internship and my first professional experience in my field of activity. It helped me have a clearer vision of what I want to do, and I was involved in several projects regarding the Sustainable Development Goals. It was really interesting and worth it! I am going to miss Cape Town so much; I met incredible people here. I started yoga in Obz and discovered so many places thanks to all the VAC activities. This program exceeded my expectations, and I am so grateful for this beautiful opportunity and cannot wait to come back to Cape Town!

My two months in Cape Town were an incredibly formative experience. The VAC team welcomed us with open arms, helping us settle in with a week of orientation. This included typical orientation sessions and many activities to get to know Cape Town. After a week of adventures, we began our internships. I was placed in an incredible internship with a women’s soccer club, where I had the opportunity to meet some of the most inspirational and talented women. When I wasn’t at my internship, I was exploring the city around me. VAC organized optional weekly activities where they continued to take us to beautiful places; my personal favorites were Boulders Beach and Cape Point. Cape Town has a little of everything. There are beaches, mountains, and city streets. This program allowed the independence to explore the rich history of the city at my own pace. We even ventured outside the city to explore nearby wineries and botanical gardens. There was never a shortage of activities to do. I’m going to miss all the people and places I’ve met and visited during my time here. I couldn’t be more grateful for this opportunity.

I came to Cape Town, leaving Europe for the first time on my own. I stayed here for a little more than two months, interning for the Human Rights Consultant. My internship was remote, which enabled me to explore the city and the Cape region, giving me glimpses of its beautiful nature, cultural diversity, and the many charming cafés that Observatory is home to. During my internship, I worked on human rights-related issues. Staying in South Africa offered me a unique perspective, as it is the country with the highest inequality in the world, which is visible in Cape Town where the very richest live next to people who have nothing. What I really appreciated about my internship is that I worked on issues which I could actually witness here, offering me more practical perspectives. I had the opportunity to write various assessments and reports. One that particularly stuck with me was a response to the UN regarding what is missing concerning their global governance program of AI with a focus on the Global South, which I collaborated on with the other interns working for Kelly. Cape Town is a beautiful city with so much to explore, and two months have almost not been enough. There are so many beaches to visit, mountains to climb, animals to see, foods to try, and cultures and histories to learn about. During the orientation week, VACorps took us to the township Khayelitsha, where locals gave us a tour, offering us insight into life in the township. Through weekly cultural sessions and a self-planned trip to Robben Island, I had the opportunity to learn more about South Africa's history and cultures. As I prepare to return home, what I will miss most are the gorgeous natural surroundings of the city, the many sunny days, and the beautiful people that I have met on my journey. VACorps offered me a perfect mix of structure, support and freedom, providing many opportunities to connect with other people, explore the city together, and a team of incredible support staff on which I always felt I could rely.

I came to Cape Town, leaving Europe for the first time on my own. I stayed here for a little more than two months, interning for the Human Rights Consultant. My internship was remote, which enabled me to explore the city and the Cape region, giving me glimpses of its beautiful nature, cultural diversity, and the many charming cafés that Observatory is home to. During my internship, I worked on human rights-related issues. Staying in South Africa offered me a unique perspective, as it is the country with the highest inequality in the world, which is visible in Cape Town where the very richest live next to people who have nothing. What I really appreciated about my internship is that I worked on issues which I could actually witness here, offering me more practical perspectives. I had the opportunity to write various assessments and reports. One that particularly stuck with me was a response to the UN regarding what is missing concerning their global governance program of AI with a focus on the Global South, which I collaborated on with the other interns working for Kelly. Cape Town is a beautiful city with so much to explore, and two months have almost not been enough. There are so many beaches to visit, mountains to climb, animals to see, foods to try, and cultures and histories to learn about. During the orientation week, VACorps took us to the township Khayelitsha, where locals gave us a tour, offering us insight into life in the township. Through weekly cultural sessions and a self-planned trip to Robben Island, I had the opportunity to learn more about South Africa's history and cultures. As I prepare to return home, what I will miss most are the gorgeous natural surroundings of the city, the many sunny days, and the beautiful people that I have met on my journey. VACorps offered me a perfect mix of structure, support and freedom, providing many opportunities to connect with other people, explore the city together, and a team of incredible support staff on which I always felt I could rely.

My experience in Cape Town with VACorps has been empowering and nothing short of incredible. I am forever grateful for the memories and friendships that I made. I did my internship at an NGO that provides services to abused women and children. During my time there, I worked extensively with women in group sessions and was able to establish close professional relationships with each of them. Additionally, I implemented a financial training program. I learned so much, and I will never forget the strong and powerful women that I worked with. Cape Town is so much more than just a beautiful city. The people I met accepted me as if I had lived here forever, and I can truly say being here feels like home. Three months is too short, and I am already planning my trip to come back.

After doing a structured group travel program for the first part of my gap year, I knew I wanted more independence in the spring. I wanted to do an internship and get some work experience, but I also didn't want to be working alone in a new city. VACorps was totally perfect for that. I got to be independent going to my internship, while also having a built in social group with the other interns I was living with as well as the support of the VACorps staff when I needed them. Cape Town itself is a city with endless things to do. I loved getting to spend time in nature, having access to the beach, and eating incredible food all the time. I was here for three months and I feel like it was the perfect amount of time to get into a routine in Cape Town, have a deep engagement with my internship, and also explore everything the city has to offer. I did my internship at a local Radio Station, and everyone there was extremely willing to teach and make time for me. I loved being a radio presenter, learning about sound engineering, and getting to interview a wide range of awesome guests! I will definitely miss everyone at my job who were so welcoming and patient with me. I'll also miss all my favorite cafes and restaurants in Observatory. But I think most of all, I'll miss my fellow interns I got to live with for the past three months. Getting to go through this experience with them was the best part, and I have made some friendship that I hope will last a lifetime.

I stayed in Cape Town for two months during my gap year and worked with a domestic violence shelter for women and children. Of all places I could have interned, Cape Town proved to be such an incredible city to work in. Not only are the VACorps staff helpful, but they make the adjustment process to living on your own in a new place comfortable and easy. The city itself offers an amazing array of activities. There are not many places in the world where you can hike huge mountains to look at amazing sunsets and drive a couple of minutes to white sand beaches with cold water to cool off from the heat. Observatory, where everyone stays, is also perfect. There are incredible food and drink options only a couple of minutes away, including a personal favorite, the café Sonder and an Ethiopian restaurant Timbuktu (one of the best meals I’ve ever had). My internship itself was at times difficult, but completely worth it as well. My coworkers quickly became friends who helped me both understand how to do the best I could at my job and keep things light in a place where we were dealing with some very tough situations. Working with such a vulnerable population is far from easy but I would not give that experience up for the world. From practical skills such as doing intake forms and speaking with clients about their struggles, to understanding the complexities of South Africa’s stance on gender-based violence and mental health, I was immersed in a world that proved to be incredibly inspiring. The strength that lies in each of us even in the hardest of circumstances to carry on was depicted day after day. It was nothing short of incredible. The people at my internship are those who I will miss most dearly. Every week we also had cultural activities and opportunities to see the more “touristy” spots with VACorps. This was extremely helpful as it allowed me to see many sides and areas of Cape Town that I may not have visited otherwise, giving me a fuller picture of this multifaceted city. A highlight was seeing the African penguins… shocking yes, these guys love the heat apparently which is not what one normally associates with penguins… nonetheless, they were there! We also had the privilege of seeing traditional dancers from Khayelitsha who taught us a few moves. As a dancer myself, this was such a cool opportunity for cultural exchange where we learned something from each other. Overall, Cape Town with VACorps was amazing and I have made connections here that I will never forget. I highly recommend and make sure to pack sunscreen! I’ll miss you Cape Town!

After spending the fall of my gap year traveling and having fun, I decided that I wanted to choose a program where I could continue to have a good time in a new place, but where I would also be able to do something somewhat academic and related to what I wanted to pursue in my future. I was in Cape Town for just over two months and I interned at a nonprofit that supports and aids unemployed youth and young entrepreneurs. While my internship ended up being not at all what I had expected and sometimes I did have a good time and got to meet some really kind and interesting people. I learned how to interact in a workplace, as well as how to advocate for myself, figuring out more about what I want to do in university and in life. Outside of my internship, I had a wonderful time in SA, getting to see the most beautiful places and do it with my amazing fellow interns and roommates. I met some of my best friends here and got to do such fun things. I highly recommend Clifton 4th beach, the Old Biscuit Mill market, and especially Sonder Cafe (the best iced coffee and brunch food within walking distance of the office in Obs)! While it was definitely a learning experience living with 6 other people who hadn’t necessarily lived with anyone before, it was great to have a social community which I could come back to after my internship. Some of my highlights were going up Table Mountain to watch the sunset, a weekend trip to Stellenbosch, and wine tastings in Constantia. Truly, there is so much to do in Cape Town and you will never run out of activities! In general, VACorps was very supportive and hosted a ton of interesting weekly and introductory activities (which I highly recommend going to) that are not just fun but also informative about the culture and history of South Africa. If you are someone who wants to challenge themselves and also have a ton of fun doing so, I really recommend considering VACorps.

Cape Town was my dream internship destination because of its natural beauty and unique history. As a Human Rights intern, being able to study injustice in a country that has significant economic and racial inequality has been conducive to my understanding of human rights on a global level. I interned for Dr. Kelly Stone, a human rights lawyer and consultant, and was able to assist her in projects concerning the reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals, women in policing, and the governance of AI. These projects spanned a wide variety of topics and addressed different skill sets to give me a sense of the day-to-day of human rights work in South Africa and abroad. My internship has been invaluable to my personal development, as well as to ascertaining what I will study in university. Besides my internship, Cape Town’s diversity and beauty have allowed me to dive into a new culture and absorb a new way of life. What I have learned from exploring the city has given me just as much as my internship. Exploring Khayelitsha during orientation week, planning my own trip to Robben Island, and attending the weekly culture series led by VACorps has added to my understanding of South Africa’s past and present. Some of my other Cape Town favorites include Sonder Café, Clifton 4th beach, the Old Biscuit Mill market, the Oranjezicht City Farm Market, Groot Constantia, and Ferdinando’s Pizza. Cape Town is a beautiful city with so much culture to absorb, history to learn from, and fun to have!

Choosing Cape Town for my Gap Year internship was a no-brainer. I’d heard amazing things about the city, and doing an internship while traveling sounded like the perfect combo to boost my CV and explore new places. It was a bit scary at first, being on my own and handling work responsibilities for the first time, but it turned out to be a major confidence booster and made me feel like a proper adult. Living in Cape Town taught me a lot about independence. From making everyday decisions to going on epic adventures like marine safaris, I felt totally capable of handling anything that came my way. I feel that because of this experience I could live anywhere in the world by myself and feel very confident about it. VACorps did a great job at fostering a sense of community amongst program participants. I made amazing friends here from all over the world, and it was truly special to have the opportunity to explore the beautiful country with such an amazing group of people. Two months flew by, and I wouldn’t change a thing. VACorps made it all easy, from orientation to weekly activities like surfing lessons. I’m so grateful for these unforgettable experiences and the awesome people who made it all possible.

VACorps did a superb job of making me feel supported, safe, and taken care as I explored the beautiful Cape Town and all of its rich culture. Their staff were warm, responsive, and experts at making you feel at home while away from home. During my first internship placement I worked primarily on a research deliverable for a land advocacy organization, that wedded international literatures and the South African context around farm worker evictions. I learned a ton about insecure land tenure and land dispossession issues across the world, and I am proud of the product. During my second placement at a refugee advocacy center, I really enjoyed assisting on legal matters — and in particular getting to see South African courts in session. I developed greater confidence working on legal matters and materials, and affirmed my interest in going into the legal profession. I really appreciated my supervisors willingness to connect me with meaningful opportunities and get me involved in his work. I was was so grateful for the internship placement, and my ability to contribute meaningfully to the organization’s work. I was involved in field work that made my time in Cape Town immensely enriching and eye-opening. VAC ensured that this placement was smooth and respectful.

After doing a structured group travel program for the first part of my gap year, I knew I wanted more independence in the spring. I wanted to do an internship and get some work experience, but I also didn't want to be working alone in a new city. VACorps was totally perfect for that. I got to be independent going to my internship, while also having a built in social group with the other interns I was living with as well as the support of the VACorps staff when I needed them.  Cape Town itself is a city with endless things to do. I loved getting to spend time in nature, having access to the beach, and eating incredible food all the time. I was here for three months and I feel like it was the perfect amount of time to get into a routine in Cape Town, have a deep engagement with my internship, and also explore everything the city has to offer. I did my internship at a local Radio Station, and everyone there was extremely willing to teach and make time for me. I loved being a radio presenter, learning about sound engineering, and getting to interview a wide range of awesome guests! I will definitely miss everyone at my job who were so welcoming and patient with me. I'll also miss all my favorite cafes and restaurants in Observatory. But I think most of all, I'll miss my fellow interns I got to live with for the past three months. Getting to go through this experience with them was the best part, and I have made some friendship that I hope will last a lifetime.

I will miss the people I met most, my roommates, my clinic staff, Kus and Kholi. They have truly been the highlight of my visit. Cape Town is like nowhere I have ever been before. It's a city built around nature. As an ecology major, I really enjoyed living right next to Table Mountain and the ocean. I learned so much about living in an urban city and all of the joys and worries that come with that. I learned I'm braver than I thought I was coming down here by myself, knowing no one. I've made lifelong friends and colleagues that I will never forget. Cape Town is somewhere I want to come back to with my friends, with my family, and with the other interns I've met here. The staff at a medical clinic has changed my professional life. They took me under their wing and taught me so much. I will never be able to thank them enough for all that they have done for me. Eight weeks was a good length for being in Cape Town. I'm so sad to leave but it feels like a good ending to this adventure. VAC weekly activities were always a fun time. The wineries and Cape of Good Hope were my favorite trips. I'm most grateful to VAC for being there for me when I had questions about my internship or Cape Town itself. It was so easy to text Kus and ask her to arrange a trip to paragliding or the Garden Route. I can't thank VAC enough for those staff members who kept up with me and my roommates. I could not have loved my time in Cape Town more. It is one of the best decisions I've ever made to take a chance and fly down here. I will always treasure my time here.

My stay at Cape Town has been nothing short of amazing! I chose to study in Cape Town because of the diverse culture offered here and off course the beautiful scenery surrounding the whole country. I was exposed, mainly through VACorps, to some really amazing history and culture and I was able to grow personally throughout. Not only did my internship meet everything I had hoped for, I met some amazing people here. The people through VACorps were so kind and welcoming, and I made some incredible friends who also interned here. The locals in Cape Town were also very welcoming, and I felt extremely safe and accumulated after my welcome week. I was able to work in a Diagnostics genetics lab this summer where I learned a lot about data analysis, instrumentation usage, and in-depth details about genetics. Overall my stay here was better than I could have ever hoped for and I wish I could have stayed for longer! I will miss the electric environment here and the people that make it so special!

Looking back, I never could have imagined all the things I would get to experience and the people I was fortunate to meet when I first came to Cape Town. I decided to come to Cape Town because I wanted to experience a place with the opportunity to interact with many different people, engage with multiple cultures and histories, and enjoy the outdoors within the area. Now as I am about to leave Cape Town, I am thankful for the VACorps staff, the people I met through this program and around Cape Town, and in particular, my internship site and its people. Getting to hang out with new friends and learning from so many people and their stories has taught me a great deal about others and myself, for which I am grateful. VAC also gave me the support and flexibility to try new things, with them as well as on my own, which allowed me to experience and remember Cape Town in a way unique to me.

Choosing to spend six weeks of my life in Cape Town was the best decision I could’ve possibly made! I love traveling and I was yearning to scratch that itch. My internship with the micro-publisher gave me a lot of insight into the literary scene in South Africa, especially poetry. During my time here, I also went bungee jumping, did a safari (and saw 4 out of the big 5), walked with elephants, hiked amazing trails with amazing views, drove an ATV across beautiful sand dunes, ate some of the most delicious food I’ve ever tasted and made friends with some really cool people! Throughout the whole process, VACorps was super friendly and helpful and it was fun to participate in the Monday night cultural series and the Friday activities. I will miss the daily adventures of exploring Cape Town with my friends, and I hope to return someday in the future. I definitely recommend this experience, 10/10!

I wanted to do an internship abroad and was looking at many different countries. When I found VACorps the reviews and what they offered were so much more than competing companies. I really think I had the perfect internship for me and I wouldn't have found it without VACorps. What I enjoyed most about Cape Town was meeting people from every place in the world. Cape Town is a melting pot of so many cultures, faiths, and peoples. I stayed for 9 weeks and my favorite things I did were the hikes and a safari. I loved being able to walk from my house to anything I needed. Also having a bunch of people who quickly became my friends in the same house was so nice and that's what I will miss the most. For those who are arriving in the future, please keep an open mind and be ready for anything because Cape Town has so much to offer. The VACorps staff are amazing and really help you feel comfortable down here, they are quick to answer any questions and always checking in on us. The Weekly activities are a lot of fun and a great way to meet the many VACorps students

I am very grateful that I spent this summer in Cape Town. I loved the VACorps staff. They are very supportive and also a lot of fun. Cape Town is a beautiful city and there is so much to do here. I am going to miss the children that I worked with at the children's home and also the friends that I have made while being here. The VACorps weekly activities were amazing and it was a great way to spend time with friends and get to know more interns while seeing more of Cape Town. I am so grateful for this whole experience and I will definitely be back to Cape Town soon!

I loved VACorps. Overall this has been a really great experience for me. I think it has pushed me in ways I didn't know I would grow and taught me lessons I didn't know I needed to learn. This is a great way to learn about and explore an incredible country and I can't wait to tell everyone back home about it too. I picked VACorps because it's unlike so many other programs. I really enjoyed that we get to live with other interns and make our own connections while still having the freedom of our own internships and living life however we choose. I counted the other night, and I've met and said goodbye to 39 interns this summer, all people I never would have met otherwise. This is a really cool way to build connections not just abroad in SA but also between other countries.

I chose Cape Town as it is in Africa and I have always wanted to travel to Africa. I wanted to get out of the house this summer and make a meaningful impact on the world. I enjoyed all the fun possibilities and activities that Cape Town offers. As this was my first time living alone I learned a lot about myself and my strengths and weaknesses. I will never forget the immense kindness that all the grannies at my internship site showed me every day. I will miss the friendships I made with great people and my roommates especially. I would recommend that you spend as long as you can in Cape Town. I would advise people to make a list of the things they want to do before coming to Cape Town because there is so much to do.

I came across VACorps when I was looking for a program that would allow me to get some work/volunteer experience while living in another country with people my age. It fit my criteria perfectly, Cape Town looked super exciting, and the website had a ton of information. I loved the internship I ended up doing a law internship because the site gave me meaningful and interesting work to do and was very welcoming. I also loved living in the Arnold Street house and became great friends with all of my roommates. I will miss being able to go hiking, to the beach, or to try new restaurants with them. We had so much fun at the VACorps activities and culture nights as well. Kus and Kholi were so kind, funny, and helpful and we always loved seeing them. I stayed for two months and am so sad to leave - I would recommend staying as long as you can. I feel so grateful for this opportunity to try a new job, explore a beautiful new place, and make incredible friends.

I chose to come to Cape Town for an internship to experience a new culture and get out of my comfort zone. Let me just say that I succeeded in stepping out of my comfort zone and loved almost every minute of it. Some takeaways from my experience that I hope to take home with me are to continue to ask questions and be curious about new things that you experience. Most importantly throughout it all be yourself and be kind to others. I will never forget hiking Table Mountain with a group of VAC interns because of the conversations up and the views at the top. I will miss all the people I live with, all the people that I work with, and all the crazy hikes just a ten-minute drive away. VAC staff was awesome!

I thought this was one of the most life-changing experiences I have ever had in my entire life. I want to thank the VACorps staff for everything they have done for me. I wanted to be able to grow as a person and do whatever I could to make my experience great. I met some special people on my journey who will be in my life forever.

Traveling to Cape Town was genuinely the most transformative experience of my life thus far. From exploring new environments to going on exhilarating adventures, nothing compares to the amazing community of people who welcomed us with open arms. Despite being in a foreign country, the VACorps staff, especially Kus and Kholi, made me and other interns feel at home, safe, and protected. VaCorps staff supported us from the very beginning when we arrived at the airport and on our first internship day to the very end. The weekly activities allowed me to see more of Cape Town and travel to spectacular places like Muizenburg, Hout Bay, wine farms, and more. I truly tested my limits countless times by trying new things like bungy jumping, surfing, climbing Table Mountain, and crawling through caves -- to name the least. Cape Town has the most beautiful natural wonders I'd ever seen and I felt so attuned to nature in a way that's quite indescribable. While it was great to travel to other parts of Cape Town, there was certainly beauty in our own backyard of Observatory as well. The lively community is filled with fun people to connect with, fashionable thrift stores, and delicious food, especially Ivy's Kitchen! I would advise not to pass Obs up because there are a lot of hidden treasures as long as you're open to finding them. If I were to offer any piece of advice, I'd highly recommend seeing all of Cape Town. While you can limit yourself to Camps Bay, Constantia, the central business district, and all the fancy beach cities, that only tells half the story of a multifaceted city and country. Visiting the townships and building genuine connections with locals who are living a reality that is often ignored by "tourists" can broaden your perspective on life. My favorite memory in Cape Town was playing with the sweet kids from the Bathande Children's Reading Club in Khayelitsha created by Kholi. Beauty is everywhere in Cape Town and having the opportunity to become culturally immersed in this wonderful city and country is something I'll never forget. In just two months, a place almost 10,000 miles away from home began to feel just like home.

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!

Having recently graduated from my Master's degree, my time in Cape Town provided me with valuable work experience abroad. While working on and positively contributing to addressing the challenges facing post-apartheid South Africa, I was actively applying for jobs back home. Being flown in for the organisation of a workshop in Johannesburg was unforgettable, and so were the people I got to meet and interact with - both within and outside my internship organisation. My internship here confirmed I could use and deploy my skills and experience abroad, and further reinforced my diplomatic ambition. This was my main reason for coming back to Cape Town and I am therefore grateful to VACorps for facilitating this experience which further enhanced my understanding of South Africa.

My time in Cape Town with VACorps has been incredible. I've learned a lot through my internship and exploring South Africa over the last three months. I was placed in a law internship, working with an independent firm run by my internship boss. I've essentially functioned as a paralegal, working through child support, car seizure, and hijacking cases with his assistance. I've come away with a deeper understanding of the South African Constitution, and how it applies to societal functionings here. I've also had lots of time to hike, surf, visit beaches, and explore the city here in the Cape. I've met people and had experiences that I will never forget. I have made friendships that will last beyond my time here in Cape Town. I really cannot recommend this program and experience enough. I have gained so much perspective on life, people, law, and myself. I've grown to love South Africa and feel invested in the societal challenges and successes the country faces. I feel that I have grown a lot as a person throughout my time here and VACorps was a great facilitator of my experience.

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.

This experience was priceless. I was able to learn so much from the people around me about myself, Cape Town, and South Africa as a whole. The VACorps staff were extremely friendly and helpful, and the other interns became my family while I enjoyed my time here. My internship was fun and educational and gave me a first glimpse into my possible future career pathways. It was not at all what I expected but it was easy to enjoy and clearly impactful work. When I had questions about Cape Town, Kus and Kholi were always there to answer and guide me in my explorations of this beautiful place. There is so much to do around Cape Town and Obs is a welcoming place. Cape Town will forever be an experience that has shaped me and will remain in my heart. I have built confidence, new perspectives, new appreciation for this place, and so much joy in my last 3 months in South Africa.

Being a part of the VACorps program and family these past couple of weeks has been the best experience of my life. From the moment we stepped foot into Cape Town, we have felt nothing but welcomed and loved by the people of this town and the staff at the VACorps office. I would not trade this opportunity for the world. To be able to travel across the world and feel at home speaks volumes about what the VACorps program has to offer. I can confidently say I would recommend this program to everyone!

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 chose to do an internship in Cape Town as it allowed me to opportunity to experience a place I had never been before and what felt like a more “real” way. I loved getting to know Cape Town through meeting, new people and learning about the healthcare system in South Africa compared to the one in the US. My favorite part of my internship was just getting to follow around the most amazing supervisors. The highlight of living in CPT has just been being able to always find new activities and fun things to do. I would advise people to stay here for three months.

This experience genuinely has changed my life as to who I am. I adored every second of being here in Cape Town and learning about myself and the different cultures present in the city. If I have the chance to come back, I will do so in a heartbeat! It really helped me have job clarity, I was unsure if I was in the right major at a PT student, but as soon as I got to the site I was reassured that future career choice is the right path for me!

I chose Cape Town as my internship location because of the immense beauty and rich culture present here! I have loved every second of the 5 weeks that I have spent in Cape Town, and I will forever cherish the amazing memories, friendships, and lessons that I have experienced. What I loved most about my time in Cape Town were the memories I made here both at my internship site and outside of it! At my internship site, I learned to keep an open mind and be very vocal and outgoing when speaking with the nurses, doctors, and staff. Outside of my internship site, I have gotten to learn about the culture of South Africa alongside the many friends that I made during my time here. The VACorps staff did an amazing job with organizing weekly activities and culture sessions that helped me to meet so many of the other VACorps interns! I am so grateful for my time in Cape Town and for the many experiences and friendships I have made along the way thanks to VACorps.

I deliberately chose Cape Town to learn about cultural differences in my professional field of coaching and organizational psychology. For me, it was great to experience how further training is practically implemented in companies. I became more and more confident and I feel more confident in my professional goal to work as an independent coach in a network.

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.

I chose to do an internship in Cape Town as it allowed me to opportunity to experience a place I had never been before and what felt like a more “real” way. I loved getting to know Cape Town through meeting, new people and learning about the healthcare system in South Africa compared to the one in the US. My favorite part of my internship was just getting to follow around the most amazing supervisors. The highlight of living in CPT has just been being able to always find new activities and fun things to do. I would advise people to stay here for three months.

I truly enjoyed my experience working with the VACorps crew! They do a great job of creating a welcoming space for people from all over the world. While I was here, I made friends from all over the world, from the USA, to Europe, to other countries within Africa, and these are friendships that I know will last a lifetime! All while being able to work at an internship that was perfect for me! The staff did a great job of paring me with my internship and I am very grateful for the knowledge that I gained from working there. This is information that I will carry with me for the rest of my life and knowledge that I will use in my future career. Overall, I think that the VACorps team does a great job at making their interns feel at home and does a great job at helping them find an internship that will help them grow.

These 5 weeks have been some of the best of my life! From working in a medical clinic and getting health care experience to weekly excursions, and making new friends, I have loved it all! I’m so grateful to have had this opportunity, and I will cherish it for the rest of my life. I was able to sit in with doctors consulting patients, see a birth and many procedures, and learn doctor-patient care. I enjoyed receiving emails about preparation and important information before the trip. I also appreciated getting to know the staff and how helpful they were before arrival. Thank you, VACorps!

Cape Town has always been a place I dreamed of going. So, I was very fortunate to work at a famous heritage site in Cape Town because of some of the excellent VACorps connections. It was an internship I’m especially grateful for because of its prestige. I was able to see how I work in that environment which may potentially be similar when I work full time. I miss getting to visit the museums in Cape Town as part of my job! And the best adventure was the garden route—getting to see so many cool locations and seeing so many cool animals in person!!

In a word my time in Cape Town with VACorps was incredible! This was the first chance I've really had to live independently and it helped me to figure out what I want in life and who I want to be. I can't imagine who I would be without this place or this internship. From a professional standpoint, I learned what working for a nonprofit is actually like and how adults attempt to balance work and life.

I had an amazing experience with VACorps! The staff are incredibly welcoming and inclusive and I immediately felt at home once I arrived. They plan fantastic activities and join in, which is the best part about the Friday adventures. VACorps helped our intern group explore Cape Town and the surrounding area much more in-depth than we would've been able to had we come alone. I am so thankful that I was matched with such an amazing internship human rights internship; I learned a lot about myself, South Africa, and what a career in the human rights sector might look like. I am most grateful for the people I met here through VACorps as I now have friends all around the world and the USA, and I am incredibly grateful for what I was able to learn while working for an NGO in a country with a culture so different than my own.

I chose Cape Town because I feel the experience of an international internship is invaluable to OT education and Cape Town sounded like an amazing place to explore while studying. I learned so much and I absolutely love the lifestyle of living in Cape Town as well as how friendly people are. I proved to myself that I could work in a high-intensity pediatric OT setting and feel I learned an incredible amount working there. Many thanks to VACorps for supporting me during my time in South Africa.

Although my stay was only five weeks, this was the greatest experience of my life. I have never traveled before, so this was a huge change. First and foremost I learned that travelling might be my thing. I would love to come back. VACorps were amazing. I was treated as family from the second I walked in. I am very appreciative of the staff specifically. They were outstanding humans. I chose Cape Town because it was a go big or go home type of decision. I had never left the United States so I decided why not go somewhere crazy. My favorite part about the journey here was the culture shock. I learned so many new things that made me smarter and got rid of any ignorance or lack of knowledge I may have had about countries I have never been to. The people, specifically in Observatory, are amazing.

I always wanted to travel to South Africa, therefore an internship in Cape Town felt perfect. I needed to commit 10 weeks of an internship for my studies so I would have done them even if I was in Sweden, therefore it felt like a great opportunity to do it in Cape Town instead. I loved to learn about the South African culture and their welfare. I’ve grown a lot by coming here alone and meeting amazing people, I learn who I am and what my personality is like. I learned to love who I am. I loved all the people I met and became friends with, and all the fun stuff we got to do here. I will definitely miss all the amazing people that I’ve met. But I will also really miss living in Cape Town where it’s close to everything, the beach the mountains, and tons of restaurants. I stayed for 11 weeks and I could definitely have stayed for longer, but I feel like I had enough time to do all the things that I wanted to do. The VACorps staff is amazing, very welcoming and helpful. The Friday activities are a great opportunity to meet all the others in VAC so you’re not only with the people you live with.

I choose to study abroad in Cape Town, South Africa to experience and learn about a new culture. Living in Cape Town for 4 months has been life-changing. I have left this program with more values and understanding than I ever thought I would. I recognize that I am blessed to have an amazing opportunity like this so if you have the chance to travel to Cape Town VAC is the way to go! I promise you won’t leave South Africa the same! (Also you are going to meet some amazing people & there is no way you will leave without a friend)

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in Cape Town. There are a plethora of activities to do no matter the day, and I have made incredible friends from South Africa and all over the world. I will never forget our weekend on the Garden Route. The VACorps staff was so helpful with any issues I had and brought even more enjoyment to the Friday activities. The VACorps team also worked diligently to try and place us in an internship that is perfectly suited to you and provides you with multiple options.

Interning in Cape Town through the VACorps was one of the most impactful experiences of my life and I could not be more grateful for all the memories, professional development, and new friends made during my time here. My perspective on life has been widely expanded due to this opportunity and I can't wait to see what's next for me.

I have been in Cape Town for almost 5 months now and looking back on the time I can say that it was a priceless experience that I will cherish my whole life. I was able to meet amazing people from all over the world, with whom I am still in contact with even though some of them left months ago and I am sure that we will stay in touch. For my personal life, this whole time was an incredible opportunity to grow, expand my horizons, and immerse myself in different cultures. My personal highlights were the wine tasting in Stellenbosch and honestly just the life with my great friends at 317 Lower Main. I was so thankful for the VACorps staff who were always there when I needed them and seeing Kus' and Kholi's beautiful smiles and their great moods whenever we did an activity always made my day. For my professional life, it was extremely beneficial as well. I was an intern at a tech accelerator, which assists and accelerates disruptive startups in Africa. I was able to learn more and more every single week and was quickly accepted as a real team member by my amazing co-workers. It was definitely a time-consuming internship but personally for me it was exactly right. I felt that I could actually help and assist the team and in the second half of my internship, I got my own projects and was trusted to work independently. I would definitely advise everyone who is interested in working with startups or the world of VC to apply to VACorps. I am certain that everything I learned in my internship will prove invaluable for my future as I continue to pursue my professional goals. In general, I can say that it was the best decision to come to Cape Town, for everyone thinking about it I would suggest coming around October/November to skip the winter if you are from the northern hemisphere.

The main reason I decided to come to Cape Town during my gap year was because I wanted to experience a culture very drastically different than my own. I’m definitely glad that I ended up doing an internship program, however, I mainly chose this program for the location. Overall, my experience in Cape Town has been amazing. From the kind people to the beautiful landscape, I can’t imagine I would have had a better time on a different program. I also learned quite a bit through my internship. I am extremely glad I got to experience work in a field that interests me. None of this would have been possible however without the hard work and support of the VACorps staff. Without them, there is not chance I would have been able to experience Cape Town to the extent that I did.

The main reason I decided to come to Cape Town was because I wanted to experience a culture very drastically different than my own. I’m definitely glad that I ended up doing an internship program, however, I mainly chose this program for the location. Overall, my experience in Cape Town has been amazing. From the kind people to the beautiful landscape, I can’t imagine I would have had a better time on a different program. I also learned quite a bit through my internship. I am extremely glad I got to experience work in a field that interests me. None of this would have been possible however without the hard work and support of the VAC staff. Without them, there is not a chance I would have been able to experience Cape Town to the extent that I did.

Cape Town and the VACorps have provided a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and experience for me. I came here as part of my process of deciding where my next step in life is, and I can now say with resounding enthusiasm that I have gained priceless insight into the world and life itself through this experience. While my internship wasn't the most productive, the life lessons I've learned, continue to become exponentially more valuable as I continue to grow and shape my view of the world. Overall it was a great experience and I have made friends that I will never forget, among both interns and VACorps staff members. (I'm talking about you Kus ;) can't wait to come back!

During my gap year with VACorps in Cape Town, I've explored the unknown and stepped outside of my comfort zone. I've accomplished things that have scared me and have checked off some items on my bucket list. Cape Town's beauty is indescribable and the proximity to the mountains, beaches, and city and melting pot of cultures is like no other. While interning at a local radio station in Cape Town, I got to co-host a show with segments on health and wellness, human rights, gender, labour, and arts & culture.  I got to meet so many locals through interviews and opportunities here and as a result, I have a better understanding of South African culture. I've gained more insights into what career path I'd like to pursue, become more confident trying new things, and fostered familial relationships with my co-workers.  Most importantly, I've learned how to create a healthy work-life balance.

I didn't know what to expect before leaving for South Africa, but VACorps truly exceeded all of my expectations. I appreciate the amount of freedom that VAC grants its students while still providing some structure and support. I feel like I've grown so much as a person because of the freedom we've had here, but I appreciate the moments that we spend altogether, most commonly at the Friday VAC Activities. The VAC program also creates the perfect balance of work and play, and I credit this balance to why I have absolutely loved my time here in Cape Town. VAC paired me with the perfect internship for my interests, and this real-world experience has informed me about what I want to study in the future, and I feel confident I will return to the States with a newfound passion and drive I didn't have before. When I'm not at my internship site, I am always exploring the beautiful city, and I never run out of things to do with friends. I've done a bit of everything, from surfing to wine tasting to hiking, and I could not be happier with the time I spent here. I spent 2.5 months in Cape Town with VAC, and it doesn't feel like nearly enough time. The people here are truly indescribable; I've definitely found a family with VAC.

Interning in Cape Town was such a great experience! The city is incredible and there’s so much to do. I spent a lot of my free time outdoors exploring the beautiful mountains, beaches, and forests that make Cape Town so unique. I interned at a bicycle shop and had a great time learning how to build and repair bicycles while also learning valuable business lessons. The workplace environment was so much fun and made the early morning commutes worth it. Living and working in a city thousands of miles away from home came with challenges, but those experiences taught me a lot which will help me in college and beyond. I stayed in Cape Town for around 9 weeks and I think that was the perfect length. I will really miss my time here and I hope to visit again! soon!

I chose to come to Cape Town on a whim, which turned out to be one of the best whims I've ever had. I had the most amazing experience during my time in Cape Town. VACorps organized for me to intern with the incredible Justice Desk, which was an opportunity I simply wouldn't have been able to do without the support and organization of the VAC team. VACorps works hard to ensure that every week you have to opportunity to explore and engage with Cape Town's culture and experiences. One of the best parts about my choice to intern through the VACorp was meeting and getting to know the other interns, like-minded individuals from across the world who I connected with in Cape Town and who have become lifelong friends. I highly recommend this internship program for an ideal mix of work and play, individual exploration, and personal growth.

I spent 2 months interning in Cape Town to complete a fieldwork placement for my Occupational Therapy degree. I chose Cape Town as it fit the requirements of my university for an international placement, but also because of the amazing weather and how many things there are to do here in the evening/weekends! I was placed at a residential facility for adults with intellectual disabilities, which was definitely out of my comfort zone, but it has done so much for my confidence to challenge myself, and I have loved the experience! My supervisor and everyone at my internship site were so welcoming, and I had the opportunity to help out with birthdays and Valentine's Day celebrations, as well as shopping trips with the residents, and the daily running of the therapy program. I am really sad to be going home - I will miss how friendly everyone in Cape Town is, as well as being able to go to the beach or hiking within a 10-minute drive! The VAC team was great at supporting me to find my internship, especially as my university had strict requirements and timeframes, and it was great to know there was always someone to help if I had any issues or questions in Cape Town. Thank you so much VACorps for such an amazing experience!!

The internship, the country, the people, the food, the landscape, and the wine, I enjoyed it all! From the moment that I stepped out of the plane, I felt the warm and amazing culture that is transpired by the people all over Cape Town and especially the community of people at VACorps. Not only did I enjoy my internship, facilitated by VACorps, but because of the weekly Friday activities, the weekend trip on the Garden Route, and the amazing community, I also got to experience all the gems of this incredible city. Beautiful memories, amazing experiences, and life-long friendships are what I take back home with me!

Originally, I was nervous about coming to Cape Town. I had never been so far from home but it’s been the best decision I've ever made! Cape Town itself is beautiful. In the last two months, it’s become my favorite place I’ve traveled to since it has everything: beautiful beaches, mountains, the ocean, amazing food, friendly people and there is always something to do. Though living so far from my home in Chicago, I’ve truly made a new home here. I’ve been in Cape Town for two months and I wish I could stay longer. If I could do it again, I would most likely choose to stay for three months. The VACorp staff has been very helpful in making our time in Cape Town the best it can be. They’ve created the perfect combination of independence while also having support from the staff whenever needed night or day. The activities hosted by the program are always really fun and we are always doing new things. The turnout rates for the activities are high which speaks highly to the program community.

I am so grateful for this experience. It provided me with a new perspective of South Africa, dissolving all assumptions I previously had. The danger and poverty here are real, however, it’s nothing to be afraid of or something that discourages people from coming here. This is a beautiful place full of so many fun things and adventures. I really appreciated all of the Friday activities they took us on. During this experience, I’ve learned and become more confident in being 100% myself. I’ve made so many great relationships here with these kids. I stayed for 2 months, and I think people would enjoy 3 months here easily. I would definitely recommend any gappers to take part in this program.

I chose to travel to South Africa to do an internship in Cape Town because of how amazing this city is. You can find everything here, beaches, city life, and mountains. There is always something to do, see, and partake in. I loved that through VaCorps I had an organized group and community when I arrived, but I still was able to be independent and live freely. My time here has been absolutely amazing and I have learned so much about myself and the world in these past two months. Cannot recommend coming here with VACorps more!!

I cannot begin to say how grateful I am for my time in Cape Town and VACorps. I chose to do this program because I graduated college and felt unsure of my career path and wanted to explore the world and expand my perspective. I can say without a doubt that this experience not only expanded my perspective but expanded me. Completing an internship abroad taught me so much about myself professionally. Being able to learn from another country's work culture and environment was immensely beneficial to my professional growth. I went into the internship wanting to understand myself more professionally. This internship really helped me figure out my strengths and weaknesses because I was able to have clients. Being given the agency to have clients and do my own work gave me the experience of having a true work assignment and starting and completing it. In addition, being able to live with people from across the globe is an experience I will forever treasure. I am so glad that I chose VAcorps because they helped me find an internship that was exactly in line with my professional aspirations and it connected me with friends across the globe that I will have for life!

When I graduated from college, I knew I wanted to take some time before I moved on to work or grad school, so I chose to do a 5-month internship with VACorps. This decision turned out to be the best decision I could have made. I loved getting to practice social work with clients who had different backgrounds, cultures, and languages than me. Taking isiXhosa lessons with Kholi also massively enhanced my experience and helped me connect with my clients. Living in Observatory is never boring as there's always an event or a new restaurant to try. Observatory felt like home from the first walking tour, and living with so many like-minded people made it even better. Our house on Station Rd became a little unit with weekly family dinners and movie nights. I'm so grateful for the friends I made on this trip, the support we received from the VACorps staff, and the amazing activities we got to do together thanks to VACorps.

My time in Cape Town has been nothing but wonderful. I have never traveled abroad before and for this to be my first experience was amazing. VACorps made the process so much better by being so welcoming and informative about my stay here. They eased us into our journey by taking us to some important stops throughout Cape Town, advising us about safety, and connecting us with other people that would help make our stay more comfortable. All of the staff was very helpful and available whenever we needed them. They placed me with a wonderful internship and if others did not have a good fit with theirs, they made sure to connect them with a better place for them to intern during their stay. The Friday activities were always filled with fun. There was something for everyone, whether that was hiking, wine tasting, surfing, or eating great food. They helped me better bond with the other people in the program and through that, I have made some lifelong friends. The culture series was also very informative and were a mix of fun and educational activities for us to better connect with the culture here in South Africa. I am very sad for my journey in Cape Town to end but it has motivated me to travel more around the world and of course, come back and visit again in the future. I was very nervous coming into the trip because I did not know what to expect and had never been so far away from home, but having the VACorps staff to support me and getting to know all of the other interns helped me find a family away from home.

I chose to come to Cape Town because it is the city with everything. A large exciting city, with oceans, mountains, and fascinating people, Cape Town provides a plethora of opportunities for ambitious people. Diverse and educational, South Africa has a rich history that is easily explorable. I specifically loved how much I was able to do here, I worked in an underserved clinic and witnessed a mix of cultures united under one roof, I spent weeks on a farm in the heart of the city and learned more than ill ever need to know about plants and gardening. I will miss the sheer beauty no matter where I looked during my commutes to work each day. Three months was not nearly enough time, yet I still was able to experience so many incredible things, like scenic hikes, crazy surf days, world heritage sites, and so much more. The culture here is unmatched and so unique. Like any city, Cape Town has its flaws, petty crime, load shedding, etc. It is crucial to be aware of these things before arrival, along with this, VACorps staff will do their best to prepare you for living in such a bustling place with so many types of people. I am beyond grateful for the people I met while living here, whether that be my lovely roommates or hard-working co-workers.

I came to Cape Town to join the VACorps program in order to experience the culture of South Africa and to see what working in another country would be like. I did my apprenticeship at a local TV station and was very happy with the warm welcome I received, and the work that I got to do. My goal was to give journalism a good shot and see if it was something for me. I feel like I have achieved that goal, and I have learned so much. I really enjoyed the freedom I had on my stories and loved going out to meet people. I have traveled all over the city with the news team and had so many unique experiences. Cape Town is a unique and beautiful city, and I really enjoyed exploring it with the amazing people I met at VACorps. I learned to test my limits and to adapt to many different situations. I will never forget my time here! Thank you VACorps!

I chose to intern in Cape Town because of a professor I once had. He would always talk about how wonderful Cape Town was and how breathtaking the views were. Most importantly he talked about how kind and generous the people were. I have spent the last two months interning at a local biotech company, and I am so grateful for what I got to learn there and the new family it feels like I have. I am also appreciative of VACorps and how easy they made it for me to just come in and feel like I was part of something. I will never forget the people here or the experiences I have had and I will miss all of it. Cape Town is truly one of the greatest places I have ever been and I wouldn't change a minute of it.

It was a joy to be part of the VACorps program. My time in Cape Town was extraordinarily special, in large part due to the opportunities provided by VAC and the endless support of the VAC staff. My internship experience at a human rights NGO was transformative. I was able to immerse myself within a community and way of life unlike anything to which I had ever been exposed. I made personal connections with the people in my internship, and I was welcomed into my internship organization with open arms. I learned and grew as a person during my time in my internship, and I was challenged to do and think about things that had never even crossed my mind. I regard my time in my internship as a true blessing. Beyond this, I was excited every week to partake in the Friday activities provided by VAC, each of which brought to my attention a new place within an aspect of Cape Town. The activities were well-planned, thrilling, and a great way to spend time with other people within the program. Additionally, as a woman navigating a new city on my own, it was comforting to know that the VAC staff would always be there, should I need anything. Because of the support provided by VAC, I was able to find a sense of independence in a new city and create a community for myself on my own, while knowing that I had people always looking out for me. VAC ensured that we would be safe during our time in Cape Town, that we would have a meaningful internship experience, and that we would be able to enjoy all the beauty and adventure that Cape Town has to offer.

Cape Town is such a wonderful, vibrant city and will welcome you with open arms. If you are looking for somewhere to do an internship that gives you that home away from home feeling, I can't recommend this city enough! The VACorps weekly cultural events were so informative, fun, and gave you the opportunity to experience local music, dance, food, drinks, and much more. Additionally, the weekly excursions offered by VACorps give you the opportunity to get outside the city to explore and try activities with all the other interns. I have been able to meet so many new people from around the world through this community and was set up with an incredible internship site. My time at a public health research project was an invaluable learning experience! Furthermore, I was able to make such meaningful connections with the team members working at the office and the community health clinics; and I am very much looking forward to staying in touch with everyone at my host site. My placement site made me feel as though my time there was valued and very much appreciated. My internship in Cape Town is something that I will fondly remember forever!

The reason I chose Cape Town for my internship abroad is that I fell in love with the city when I first came here with my family when I was 13. Since then I knew that I wanted to experience life in Cape Town. Now it has been 6 months since I come here and I can say that it has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. I met some amazing people within the program from all around the world and we explored the city together. I even bungee jumped which I would never previously have thought of doing before traveling here! It was one of the highlights of my time here, being able to overcome the fear was a very liberating experience. I learned so much and had a lot of fun during my experience. I was able to know myself more and it is truly a great feeling to be able to call Cape Town my home. I believe I'll miss the everyday life at the Observatory the most. Also, Kholi and Kuselwa were like sisters to me here-- they were amazing, especially in organizing the weekly activities and teaching us their culture in South Africa. I would like to thank the VACorps team for simply being the best! I would definitely recommend the program to everyone.

My experience with VACorps in Cape Town has been nothing short of amazing. From the outset, the VACorps team did an excellent job of welcoming me and helping me feel comfortable in this new environment. I also really enjoyed my time at a local TV station and am extremely happy that ended up working out. I am really glad I worked an in-person job and was a part of a social and friendly team, and was granted a lot of freedom and trust at my job. I will surely miss interacting with my coworkers. I really enjoyed the VACorps group and the activities provided a nice structure and a way to socialize with others. I stayed for 2 and a half months and would say that it's a fairly good amount of time. There is certainly a lot I feel I didn't get to do, and my advice to others would be to make a sort of bucket list of Cape Town things to do.

Cape Town and the VACorps have provided a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and experience for me. I came here as part of my process of deciding where my next step in life is, and I can now say with resounding enthusiasm that I have gained priceless insight into the world and life itself through this experience. The life lessons I've learned continue to become exponentially more valuable as I continue to grow and shape my view of the world. Overall it was a great experience and I have made friends that I will never forget, among both interns and VACorps staff members.

I chose VACorps because I wanted to travel somewhere far and very different and live like a local. Once I arrived in Cape Town I felt truly welcome. Throughout the 2 months I stayed here I found community through conversations with uber drivers, business owners, restaurant employees, and other locals. Learning about Cape Town and South Africa through the perspective of everyday people and not a tour guide was a special and unique experience. My internship at a radio station was another completely unique experience. Even without radio experience or having taken a single college course, I was trusted to represent my station in interviews with politicians, artists, and important businesspeople. That trust gave me the confidence to be creative and stick to my gut. I presented on a radio show every weekday and wrote and ran my own show on Saturdays. I filmed and edited videos for their social media, scheduled interviews, wrote scripts, and played my guitar live on air. I learned so much through all of these tasks, but my relationships at with my colleagues at the station were the most meaningful. The casual work environment gave me plenty of time to get to know the staff. I learned about the very different upbringings that all of them had. However, I ended up being surprised at how much we had in common often fostered through a mutual love of music. Ultimately, I am happy to call many of them my close friends. Leaving Cape Town and the radio station has been hard because I loved it so much. I know I will return someday.

VACorps was an exceptional and unique experience during the second half of my gap year. The things I saw and did while working at a community medical clinic are things I'd never be able to see in the US. This experience has really broadened my perspective. This program also helped me establish a sense of personal independence. I loved walking to Dolce to get a bagel or walking around and exploring the beautiful V&A Waterfront. The weekly activities and Culture Series were always a good time. I am so grateful I was able to come here and get educated on how to safely live in a foreign city. If you do join VACorps during your gap year, expect to get out of your comfort zone and explore all the beautiful highlights of Cape Town. This is where the growth will happen!

The last 2.5 months in Cape Town have been some of the best of my life! I’ve done lots of exploring— penguins, gardens, hiking, and plenty of beaches. Plus I have made such special friends. The people I’ve met through VACorps are some that I know I will keep in touch with for the rest of my life, and Cape Town has been such an amazing place to explore. There’s nowhere like it. I really settled into a routine of working at my internship, followed by working out at the gym and then seeing more of Cape Town after, which made it easy to enjoy my internship while also being adventurous. I never want to leave Cape Town and am so sad that I only have 2 weeks left here, but I couldn’t be more grateful for the experience so far. VACorps did a phenomenal job of organizing activities, always being helpful if any issue arose, and cultivating a true sense of community unique to other programs I’ve heard of in the area.

My experience with VACorps has definitely been life-changing. Through my internship, I learned so much about the eco-tourism industry as well as how the workspace in another county operates. I loved the work environment that Cape Town offers. VACorps has been so helpful to my experience by always providing help when needed as well as endless activity suggestions. The VACtivities were very well planned and helped me to explore areas that would have been difficult otherwise. Through this experience, I have learned how to look after and care for myself. I have pushed myself to accomplish some incredible things here in cape town. Living in Cape Town has increased my desire for adventure, as well as shown me how to live a well-rounded life. Cape Town has been one massive playground and there is so much I want to explore. The biggest thing I will take away here is how to interact with others from very different backgrounds. I have gained a much bigger global perspective and hope to keep exploring. I will miss looking up wherever you are and being able to see Table Mountain and/or the ocean.

I chose Cape Town as my place to intern during my gap year because I wanted something different from my mundane 9-5 life back home. I wanted to experience people and places unlike what I have seen and get a better perspective on the world I live in. In my time in Cape Town, I learned who I could really be, facing challenges and living independently. Whether taking a walk to clear my mind in the beautiful sea point to taking on seemingly indomitable mountains there was always something to reflect on with myself and my surroundings. My goal before arriving in Cape Town was to gain independence and confidence in an uncomfortable environment and find a home away from home. I definitely achieved this and return home having grown immeasurably as a person!

Living in New York City for most of my life, the idea of coming to Cape Town originally felt intimidating and in a way kind of like I would be integrating and adjusting myself on my own. In reality, this is far from the truth. I think VACorps’s best description is that they will make you feel at home, and this is just how I felt after just the first week. The staff is so comforting and so readily available for you for whatever problem, question, or planning you need. Our weekly activities bring the group together, along with the staff, and although you are working at your internship alone, we always have a community to go back to. I couldn’t have asked for a more supportive staff and group of students, and I was surprised how little I felt isolated and so far from home being with these people and taking part in these activities. Whether you’ve been to Cape Town, or not, or have prepared for your trip, or not at all, the staff here will have you ready to go in no time. For this, I’m so grateful, and the smiles, help, and love from the staff in the VACorps office brightened and comforted me every day.

Originally, I was nervous about coming to Cape Town. I had never been so far from home but it’s been the best decision. Cape Town itself is beautiful. In the last two months, it’s become my favorite place I’ve traveled to since it has everything: beautiful beaches, mountains, the ocean, amazing food, friendly people and there is always something to do. Though my so far from my home, I’ve truly made a new home here. I’ve been in Cape Town for two months and I wish I could stay longer. If I could do it again, I would most likely choose to stay for three months. The VACorps staff has been very helpful in making our time in Cape Town the best it can be. They’ve created the perfect combination of independence while also having support from the staff whenever needed night or day. The activities hosted by the program are always really fun and we are always doing new things. The turnout rates for the activities are high which speaks highly to the program community. I would strongly recommend this program to anyone taking a gap year!

This was the first time I was away from my home (Istanbul, Turkey) for so long (6 months) and my first time in South Africa. All I can say is it was everything I had hoped for and more entirely!! The internship opportunity received helped me clarify my future career goals. Additionally, my internship resulted in many network opportunities and perhaps future colleagues as well! With respect to living in Cape Town, this is the one thing I will miss the most! The climate, multi-cultural structure of the society; things you can do in your free time, especially the people, who are extremely friendly towards you from day one, etc. VACorps is like that second family you hope you will get when traveling abroad. The staff is always by your side, always supportive and caring towards your journey at every step. I’m forever grateful to all who have greeted us like family, and can’t wait come to come back for a visit in the near future!

I found that my time here with VA Corps was not only deeply touching in terms of the people I met, the places I got to experience on a weekly basis, and the sense of community here in Cape Town that warmed my heart and soul. Taking a step outside with everyone at VAC and finding myself in a new neighborhood, and new city, and new country felt like a newfound sense of freedom and connection with the world that is unmatched. I cannot only say that my time doing an internship here changed my life trajectory but gave me a new outlook and sense of appreciation for life.

In late 2019 when I started my search for an internship location, I had no idea or the slightest inclination that I would end up in Cape Town. As I searched online, I came across the VACorps website and read about VACorps and the testimonials from the previous interns and I knew I had finally found my internship destination – Cape Town and with VACorps. I started the internship application process and everything was running smoothly until COVID struck and then I had to put my internship on hold as the world went into lockdown. What I really appreciated even when everything was on hold is the effort that VACorps staff and especially Loyiso put in keeping me updated on the progress he was making to find an internship site that would suit my interests. Even though it took 2 years before I could finally travel to Cape Town and do my internship, it was well worth the wait, and I was definitely not disappointed. My internship site at the adolescent mental health clinic has been extremely fulfilling, and even though at times it was heartbreaking to listen to the difficult mental health issues of the patients, that is what the internship was about, and I learned a great deal. The staff at the site was very friendly and it took less than a day to feel at home. Sometimes the activities at the clinic required just shadowing the professionals but this was also a perfect way of observing and learning and soaking in the “silent experience” gathered. I came to Cape Town only focused on completing a two-month internship, but I must admit the weekly activities organized by VACorps led me to see and appreciate that there is a lot more to the experience than just interning in Cape Town. The city is just beautiful and my two months felt a little short to appreciate everything that the city has to offer. So all I can say is that my internship period was just a ‘Cape Town appetizer’ and I will definitely come back for more when I have more time. But in the meantime a BIG BRAVO to VACorps for not being just an internship agency but for going beyond to integrate the interns into South Africa. The weekly activities, especially the visit to GAPA (Grandmothers Against Poverty and Aids) have led to my being ´adopted’ by the grannies and now I leave Cape Town as a ´grandchild’ of GAPA and so this gives me a good reason to come back to Cape Town. I will be collaborating with GAPA to set up a similar project back home. So thanks to VACorps for without you I wouldn’t have met those inspirational, strong women. For anyone considering interning with VACorps, you will NOT regret that decision. The personal and professional experience gained will definitely leave a mark on your heart that will be with you forever. And for anyone coming to intern, come with an open mind, ready to embrace all there is to enjoy from nature to food, to massive shopping malls, and most of all to the very friendly people of South Africa. So for now, it is not goodbye Cape Town but see you again in the near future.

I jumped on the opportunity to come to Cape Town but honestly didn’t do too much preparation for my time here prior to arrival. With covid uncertainties and difficulty finding a clinical partner to work with I didn’t want to get my hopes up too high. This experience has been so much more enriching than I could have imagined. I’ve lived abroad before but the community organization and cultural insights of VACorps were unlike anything else. I always enjoyed our Friday activities and although it was challenging to muster up the energy to go to the culture series after a long day at the clinic on Mondays, I always learned something new. VACorps played a huge role in how much I enjoyed Cape Town. This has been a week of challenging and emotional goodbyes. I can’t wait to come back in the future and share my love for Cape Town with others.

I had the opportunity through my graduate program to complete one of my physiotherapy internships abroad in Cape Town. My school partners with the VACorps and we were paired with various sites around Cape Town. This was an amazing place to do an internship - the people were so welcoming, the food was incredible, and there was so much to do after work and on the weekends between nature, markets, and nightlife. I will miss the energy and joy here in Cape Town the most, along with the food and access to nature. We really enjoyed being out on the weekends and would always make new friends as everyone is so friendly and welcoming. I loved working at my internship site because we got to meet and collaborate with local physio students, and work with children with a variety of diagnoses and abilities. I was able to practice being independent with my physio treatment and challenged myself to try new interventions. It was a great learning experience and I will never forget my time there. The VACorps staff was so welcoming and felt like family from the second we arrived. They were there for anything we needed and we always felt so supported. They are the kindest group of people and made every Friday activity so much fun!

I chose to complete an internship in Cape Town because I knew I wanted another opportunity to study abroad and learn about physiotherapy in another cultural setting after having the opportunity to do so in Uganda. When I learned that my DPT program works closely with the VACorps and that this was a possibility for one of my clinical rotations, I jumped at the chance. I have greatly enjoyed my time working at my internship site. The kids are incredibly kind and amazing to work with, and the staff at the school are supportive and invested in helping students learn. I will never forget the two fourth graders who took the time to teach me Afrikaans as they were learning it in school. The VACorps staff is great, and the activities are so much fun! It is an exciting way to explore Cape Town and the surrounding areas with other students. I am particularly grateful for the Monday night culture series because it introduced me to aspects of South African culture I would not have otherwise experienced.

I chose Cape Town because it seemed to be a culture that was unlike any other that I have experienced before. Additionally, I wanted to be able to experience the differences in the healthcare system and how physical therapy differs from what I am used to. VACorps definitely made my time here in Cape Town SO MUCH better than it would have been otherwise.  The staff always go out of their way to make you feel welcomed, safe and supported. My favorite part of interning in Cape Town was making connections with my patients and those I worked alongside, from who I learned so much. I became more confident and independent in treating children and maintaining my own caseload. Additionally, I was able to work alongside other healthcare professionals and get more insight into their approaches to treatment. I was able to build rapport and relationships with each of my patients. I learned a lot about different games and activities, behavioral management, and age-specific approaches to treatment. Everyone I have met here has helped me shape a new perspective on life (work, friendships, relationships, abilities, etc). This experience helped me learn how to appreciate the little things, find beauty in everything, and take the time to make connections and get to know those around me. In addition to all the beautiful people I have met,  the scenery and surroundings of the city are spectacular. Cape Town is a city like no other.

I had an incredible experience in Cape Town with the VACorps program. I did a physical therapy internship at a school for blind children, and I received a fulfilling fully independent caseload from day one. I will never forget the beautiful children I got to work with on my clinical site and the extreme joy I felt every day in their lives. I loved the beautiful outdoor playground that is Cape Town and hiking the gorgeous mountains and playing on the white sand beaches. I will miss the people I met here the most. Everyone is so kind and willing to look out for one another. Even in the poorest living conditions, everyone finds the beauty, joy, and fun of living.

I would recommend interning with VACorps to anyone who wants hands-on experience or wants to find their direction in life. On my first day as an intern I was given clients and accounts to work on, but I wasn't allowed to make coffee. It's backward from the typical internships I had in the US and it was a welcome change. I have a much better direction for my career and the experience to match. I've worked with a variety of clients and have made very helpful connections in my industry. I know a lot of the people in the program were happy about having the on-ground support and the staff was so incredibly friendly. The VACorps activities showed me sides of Cape Town I wouldn't have bothered going to, but I'm very happy I did. I highly recommend VACorps to anyone looking to explore new cultures and gain work experience at the same time.

Coming to Cape Town with VACorps was a huge leap of faith for me, having never been anywhere near South Africa before, but I would not trade my experience here for anything. The support I got from the VACorps staff, as well as the experience I gained at my internship site, exceeded every expectation I had and will be a memory I hold on to for the rest of my life. Through my time in Cape Town, I was able to take advantage of so much of what this beautiful country has to offer, especially through the activities that the VACorps facilitates for the interns. One of my favorite memories here was a VAC activity when our culture series was dancing and we had some young girls from a different township come to teach us to dance from Xhosa culture. This experience was one I never would have gotten if it weren't for the VAC and for that I am so thankful. I would truly recommend this experience to anyone considering it and would come back in the blink of an eye if I could.

On one side the beauty of a city hugged by the ocean and the mountains, with stunning views and outdoor activities for any taste. A paradise for adrenaline junkies: paragliding over the coast, bungee jumping from one of the tallest bridges in the world, diving with sharks, or diving from the sky. If you are a more contemplative person who likes nature, you will find yourself admiring an ocean sunrise from the top of Table mountain or immersing yourself in the African wildlife, vis-a-vis springboks, lions, whales, and penguins. On the other side a multicultural country with a convoluted history. You will directly experience the complex social fabric of the country and have the opportunity to have an impact on the local communities, embracing the spirit of ubuntu. You will live in Obz, a vibrant and liberal neighborhood, where you can hop from a pool bar and thrift shops to restaurants and coffee shops, where you will feel at home while meeting inspiring people. The people at the end are what make this experience priceless: your fellow interns will be your new friends, the VACorps staff your new family, and as you meet all these strong, interesting, and inspiring people, you will also meet your new self.

I loved living in Cape Town for the past 2 months; the people were so kind, the food was incredible, and you can't beat the views of Table Mountain, 12 apostles, and the beach. I chose CT because I have a friend who is South African and I've always wanted to come here myself. I learned so much about South Africa's culture and history, and I also learned about myself as I came here alone and met so many people from so many different backgrounds. I loved working with AU, I was able to be very hands-on and meet many locals, go into townships, and attend many events and activities. I really liked the family vibe at the office, and I had some really cool interns working with me. I even got to host my own mental health workshop with the youth that we work with! I will miss CT and AU so much, it's been the opportunity of a lifetime! The VACorps interns, staff, and activities were all lovely and truly made my time here. I am most grateful for the people I've met and had the opportunity to get to know while in Cape Town, and I will miss them dearly.

Knowing the beauty and strength of African people and culture, I knew I would greatly appreciate having an opportunity to intern on the continent. I also wanted to explore maternal and child public health work here in South Africa, and my internship site did not disappoint. Working at my internship site was one of the most educational and fulfilling experiences I’ve had. The community of staff members and pregnant moms showed me that unconditional love and support can change the health trajectory of communities. One of the best parts of my stay was the VACorps community – the other program participants and the staff members. Kus and Kholi are amazing human beings that made my stay in Cape Town comfortable and an amazing experience

I chose Cape Town because of its beautiful natural geography and its fascinating racial and social environment. I loved interning in CT because I was able to explore the city and enjoy personal growth, while also growing professionally and learning more about my future career goals. I learned that I truly do have the agency and ability to explore a new city/new country on my own and that I could have fun without always planning every activity out. Some highlights of my time in CT include bungee jumping, watching the sunset at Signal Hill, going to Cape of Good Hope, and going to Boulders Beach to see the penguins. I stayed in CT for 8 weeks, but to truly take advantage of the time here I would recommend someone to stay for 12 weeks. The weekly activities were so fun! I am so grateful for all the staff, who made the activities so enjoyable.

I had a wonderful time during my summer in Cape Town! I learned a great deal at my human rights internship, and I really enjoyed taking initiative and managing my own time. I did a lot of research on artificial intelligence, and I learned how to research more effectively and became less afraid to really dig into big, overwhelming topics like AI. While I can’t even count the amount of life-changing memories I made on this trip, some of my favorite memories include going on the garden route tour (from being able to hug elephants to bungee jumping!), bonding with the other VA Corp interns, swimming in the beautiful ocean, joining the reading club on Saturdays, and eating the amazing foods in Cape Town. I will miss how friendly and easy-going the culture is in South Africa, among many things. I thought the weekly activities were all really nice, and Kholi and Kus were such lovely people and so fun to hang out with. I am so deeply grateful for this experience.

I am so grateful for my experience here in Cape Town and for the staff that facilitated my experience (special shout-out to Kholi and Kus for helping Cape Town feel like a home away from home!) I gained an enormous amount of experience in policy research that I believe will be invaluable and gave me insight into my future career path. I learned a lot from my supervisor as a person and as a mentor. This has been an absolutely transformative experience, from exploring the city to my internship. I would advise newcomers to take full advantage of the city through VACorps activities but also through independent initiatives.

I chose Cape Town because I've always wanted to see Africa. I loved the city, the people, and all the experiences South Africa had to offer. I learned a lot from my internship and more about the culture on the continent through VACorp's multicultural programs and immersive activities. The most memorable experiences were the garden route, shark cage diving, and the fantastic restaurants around the area. I will miss living with a large group of people and the extensive list of activities readily available to enjoy. I stayed in CPT for 2 months with a group of 10. I am very grateful for my experience and will defiantly be back in the future.

I chose to come to Cape Town because my university was offering a global internship program in South Africa that partnered with VACorps. In the summer between my junior and senior year of college, I wanted to participate in a human rights law internship and also wanted to get experience living abroad. I did not know much about South Africa before arriving in Cape Town, but I soon learned just how beautiful and rich in culture the country is. Though it was nerve-racking to travel alone to a foreign country halfway across the world, the VACorps staff made me feel at home right away. Everyone at VACorps is extremely friendly and approachable. I felt comfortable coming to them with any questions and problems I encountered throughout my stay. Everyone has been eager to help us have the best possible experience. Though I love my moms, I will miss Kholi and Kus's motherly energy when I get back to the US! My 2-month long human rights law internship was incredible. I got to dive into human rights research and law from a new perspective. It was very interesting to explore South African political dynamics and compare them to what I know about the dynamics in America. My supervisor introduced me to new ways to conduct research and critically analyze academic sources. I will always be grateful for my experience at my internship site and will carry the skills with me into my professional career. Two months was a perfect amount of time for me. I was able to explore multiple different projects in my internship and form connections with people I would otherwise have never met. The weekly activities were an incredible way to learn more about South African culture and to meet other interns in the VACorps program. In these activities, I learned traditional dances, the South African national anthem, and the history of different cultures in the country. VAC also helped connect me with different activities and experiences across South Africa. My favorite weekend here was when my house of interns went on The Garden Route Tour. We got to go on a safari, walk with elephants, and jump off the world's highest bungee bridge. It was a truly unforgettable experience. I got to do so many things in Cape Town that I never thought I would get to do in my life.

My experience in Cape Town was unforgettable. The staff at VACorps was so supportive and responsive to anything I needed. What made it even more special was hearing stories of the staff members' daily lives and their personal experiences. I felt that the cultural series and weekly excursions elevated my time here in Cape Town and made for a more authentic experience. Even on the days when I felt alone or homesick, I knew I was never alone because I had a community at VAC to support me. My internship helped me to grow as a future dance/movement therapist and enabled me to work with teenagers, which is a group I had not previously worked with. I will miss those beautiful young women dearly.

My time in Cape Town was incredible. It is a beautiful city with endless activities and a vibrant culture. I thoroughly enjoyed my internship and felt like it gave me great experience in the field I plan to work in. The VACorps staff really took my wishes and education into consideration when they matched me with my internship. Aside from the internship, the VAC staff and participants made me feel welcome immediately. They were so friendly and made my time in Cape Town fun and easy. The staff coordinated weekly group activities and provided wonderful recommendations for other things to do and see in the area. I would recommend this program to anyone looking to make friends, gain valuable experience, and explore a new culture

I have had an amazing time in Cape Town and feel incredibly lucky to have had this experience. I would recommend VACorps to anyone looking to travel, meet new people and gain a pre-professional experience abroad. I learned so much through my internship, had a very immersive experience, gained skills that will help me in my future career, and would not have been connected to my site had it not been for VACorps. They were very responsive to the type of internship placement I was looking for and communicative throughout the process of getting placed. Through the Friday activities, culture night, and living among primarily other interns, I was able to easily connect with other friendly, adventurous, and like-minded people from all over the world and have made connections with people who I will stay in touch with long after I leave Cape Town. All VACorps staff members were incredibly welcoming, friendly, and always willing to give recommendations and connect us with companies to do various sightseeing and weekend activities which allowed me to get the most out of my time here. I was able to see and do so many things, connect with amazing people, learn about a new culture, and truly have the adventure that I was hoping for.

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!

VACorps was the best program I have ever participated in. It is extremely organized and structured so you never feel like you are lost or without support. The staff is more than friendly and willing to respond to you as quickly as they can. They care about you and want to make sure you are having the best experience possible. I loved my internship working at a mental health clinic as it helped me narrow my career interests. Overall it was a very well done program and I would highly recommend it to a friend or family member.

VACorps has allowed me to find and build relationships with fellow interns and locals that I will keep with me forever. Coming to South Africa, I did not know what to expect, but every single expectation was exceeded thanks to the support of my new community here in Cape Town. This program has allowed me to step outside my comfort zone in every aspect. Learning and being a part of a new culture is something that is absolutely irreplaceable. I will forever be grateful for my time in South Africa and all of the lifelong friends I made along the way.

My two months in Cape Town were some of the best days of my life. I came wanting to experience a people and a place vastly different from my everyday life in the US and that is exactly what I got. I learned so much about myself, the world, and what I might want to do with my life. I learned to be more independent and confident in who I am and that traveling the world is one of the coolest things you could ever do. I did my internship at the Neuro and Rehab department of a large Sports Science Center.  I believe I became more confident in myself in a professional workplace. I enjoyed learning about patients' injuries and what rehab was necessary for each patient. It was also very interesting to see the difference between the field of biokinetics (which doesn't exist in the US) and physical therapy. I haven't been sure what I want to do with my life but after this internship, I have a little more certainty that I'd like to go into a similar field to this. The people in Cape Town are all so kind and the types of people that the VACorps program attracts are all so amazing. I have made some lifelong friends here and had some truly life-changing experiences. The hiking (and all other outdoor activities) was by far my favorite part as well as simply getting to know a culture so different than mine through being in a truly South African workplace every day and exploring the beautiful city. I would not recommend coming for any less than 5 weeks if you choose this program! It's truly an incredible place and you have to be here long enough to fully enjoy every aspect of it. The VACorps staff are very organized and kind and want what's best for their interns.

I decided to come to Cape Town because I wanted to challenge myself to acclimate to a new environment where I didn't know what to expect. I also wanted to learn more about myself through traveling and had never been this far by myself before. I did my internship at an urban farm NGO, and I became a lot more confident in my ability to communicate, and I learned a lot about the origins of farming and sustainable practices. I think that I became a lot more comfortable asking questions, and having a good support system within my internship made me feel comfortable throughout the time I spent there. Highlights of my time in the VACorps program include getting to live with other interns, making amazing friends, and spending time at my internship site. I loved how independent I could be throughout this whole experience and that I could make it my own. With each week, I was able to grow more confident and felt truly Capetonian! I also really enjoyed the garden route trip and getting to do fun activities like sky diving and bungee jumping. I think that coming to the program with set expectations isn't necessarily the best route to go because you will be pleasantly surprised if you keep an open mind throughout the entire experience in the VACorps program.

One of the things I love the most about Cape Town is the people. Everywhere I went (VAC staff, work, hike, restaurant, store, uber), everyone was always extremely welcoming and willing to have a conversation. Furthermore, there seems to be a culture of sharing and learning, which I greatly appreciate. People were always willing to listen to my thoughts, and they always had stories, opinions, or advice to give. This helps create a feeling of security, which led me to want to explore — I now understand how meaningful a single conversation can be. I did my internship at a public clinic, and I was able to gain an understanding of the healthcare system of South Africa, what a public clinic looked like, where the resources were allocated, the thoughts of the people who work there, and the types of people who come in. I was able to experience or hear about aspects of communities I had never previously experienced or identified with, and my doing so was not viewed negatively, but as a positive thing. from New York, I was not used to this honesty and vulnerability between strangers; however, I will take this way of interacting home with me. I will not forget all the amazing people I met and how their openness allowed me to create some of my best and most informative memories

I am so thankful for my experience with VAC. I chose Cape Town because I wanted to have an international intern experience with a company that cared about its interns. I had a desire to explore a city that I had never been to and work with people I had never met but knew I would flourish with. I really enjoyed everything I learned at my internship in the realm of data cleaning following research projects. I’ve been on the front end of research projects before not the back end so it gave me a lot of insight into all aspects of research in the public health world. I loved that I felt outside of my comfort zone but in the best way possible, I was so comfortable exploring Cape Town and learning while I was here. I will miss everything about Cape Town, the people, the other interns, the views, the mountains, the ocean, the food, and more. My time here in Cape Town has made me feel like Cape Town is my home and I was exactly where I was supposed to be. I was only here for 8 weeks and I wish I could extend my stay to a lifetime. VAC and Cape Town have given me lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and an incredible learning experience. If you are hesitant in any way about coming to Cape Town, just do it, come and see the beauty Cape Town and South Africa has to offer. It’s a city that felt like home instantly and I know it will for you too

The VACorps staff, Kholi, and Kuselwa are the most wonderful, kind, and supportive individuals.  I am so grateful to them for facilitating this experience, and for all the support and love they gave while I was in Cape Town.  I could write a whole book about Cape Town, and my experiences in the VACorps program, but I could write a whole series about the beautiful people I met while I was here.  To all the kiddos and mothers at my internship site who I've loved and met, thank you. To Ms. Joslynn, my internship supervisor for being the definition of courageous, thank you. VACorps provides such a great opportunity to enjoy Cape Town and your internship, but the people that you meet give you a journey of love that if you indulge fully, you will never find anywhere else.

The past three months in Cape Town have been nothing short of excellent. I went in with an open mind, as the internship was a little out of my field of work. I learned a great deal through my time as an intern, the first being coding. I was very new to coding but through some self-taught and help from the company, I was able to be a lot more confident in my skills. Also, I was able to work closely with the owner of the company, which allowed me to see how an Entrepreneur mindset works day to day. The culture and natural beauty of Cape Town and surrounding areas are absolutely astonishing. This city is one of the greatest scenes for outdoor activities as you have the ocean and the mountains all around you, which makes for great surfing as well.

The VAC staff was so amazing to work with from the day I applied to the day I am leaving. They made me feel at home away from home. I truly believe Cape Town is the prettiest city in the World. There was so much to see and do! I did my internship at a public clinic in one of Cape Town’s townships. Coming here, I wanted to have the most hands-on experience possible. I wanted to find out if medicine was actually what I wanted to do, and if I was comfortable doing it. I feel like I really gained a better understanding of these things, and was able to accomplish what I wanted to out of this experience. I was able to form so many life-long friendships here with people from all different walks of life! Such an amazing opportunity and I would recommend VAC to anybody!

I chose Cape Town as a destination because I wanted to go somewhere vastly different than anywhere I had been before, and I succeeded. I wanted to gain experience in a field I was interested in as well as explore a new city. I did my internship at a local television station, and I loved meeting and getting to know my coworkers and learning about their lives because, often, they are so different than even how I was living in the same city. I loved directing the shows (specifically the daily show) because it is an exhilarating feeling when there is a high-pressure situation but you learn so much from it. I learned how independent I can be and how reliable of a person I can be, by taking care of myself and others during my time here. I will definitely miss the city itself the most, as it’s easy to navigate and there’s something for everyone. I stayed for 8 weeks and I think it is the perfect amount of time to stay. The Vacorps activities were awesome and the other program participants that I met were incredible, definitely some friends for life.

I chose Cape Town because a friend of mine was part of Vac and had a great experience. My internship was part of my degree and I would definitely recommend it as I learned a lot and probably more than in Switzerland. In Switzerland, it‘s quite hard to get into a Clinic and really work together with patients. But not only did I benefit from the professional knowledge in the clinic, I also improved my English and I had to live on my own in a foreign country. I learned about the culture and also more about the African way of living. It was also really nice that my internship was flexible and that I could get a day off when I wanted to explore more of Cape Town. I‘m definitely going to miss the people. They are much more friendly and welcoming than back home! In total, I stayed for 6 months but only half of it I worked in my internship. The rest I will use to travel around South Africa. I would definitely advise people to come for more than 2 months to really get an insight into their daily life. The weekly activities were great and I saw places that would have been more complicated to explore on my own. The staff was absolutely amazing and probably the best part about Vac. They would help in every situation and that‘s really nice to know!

Cape Town is an amazing place with so much to do. For 8 weeks, I always had activities to do and places to see, and I was never bored or sitting around. It was an awesome experience all around. I met so many great people in South Africa as well. The other VACorps interns will be my friends for a long time, and we had so much fun together. I will never forget all the fun activities we did together on the weekend. The VACorps in-country team was perfect, and they did an awesome job of facilitating the program.

I chose Cape Town to intern abroad as South Africa is a country I've always wanted to visit. So I couldn't have asked for a better thing than to intern in Cape Town as it is the best of both worlds. I really enjoyed my internship and the work I did, but I also had a great deal of fun exploring the city and uncovering the rich culture within. Over the course of my 6 months here, I've really really grown to love the city. Looking back on my stay here, I'm really happy I was placed in Observatory, as it is a lovely little neighborhood full of life, and full of different things to do and see. I'm really going to miss the little cafes and thrift shops along lower main, and the vibrant colors of the neighborhood. I love that it is close to a lot of things in cape town, but isn't downtown either. I've learned so much about myself, and this country during my stay and will be leaving with many stories, experiences, and ideas for my future. I do have to say that I recommend for interns to be here for 3 months, if not more, as I found myself only really getting comfortable/knowledgeable of Cape Town after 2 months here (it's so big, so many things to see and do and learn!!!). I'm also really thankful for VACorps to set up weekly activities with their interns, as it helps to get to know each other, but as I got more and more comfortable here and met more people outside of the program. I stayed for 6 months and did my internship at a large public health NGO. The first 2 months I was at a clinic, I worked at the front desk of the Youth center (a center for youth up to the age of 24, where they get family planning, contraception access, counseling, and overall health assessments). I really enjoyed it, as I worked in close quarters with the nurse there. I was able to sit in on consultations with patients, assisted in removing implants, helped with minor first aid (I have first aid qualifications), talked to the youth there, and helped sort out their files. I felt like I was helping a lot where I was needed and felt good about it. Following those 2 first months, my supervisor tasked me to take over a pilot study: The acceptability of menstrual cups among 14-15-year-old girls in the Masiphumelele Township. This project is what I worked on (along with other tasks I got from my supervisor) for the last 4 months of my stay. I really enjoyed it, as I felt they trusted me to work diligently on it. I set up educational workshops with girls that were recruited for the study to educate them on basic feminine hygiene and basic women's biology and got a good grasp of what they knew about it all, and what was missing. I then was tasked to prepare/edit the protocol for the study, as well as various source files for the study, ethics approvals, amendments, etc. This was overall a very satisfying project to work on, as it gave me a good taste of what working in an NGO really entails. Overall, I want to thank everyone at VACorps for having my back. I never felt alone or stranded or worried during my stay here as I knew I had a whole team ready to help me. I'm really going to miss this city, the mountains, the beaches, the shops and restaurants, the nightlife, and everything in between.

I chose cape town for the sole purpose of it having the internship that fit my needs for this summer, and it was also a place I hoped to visit one day. Upon arrival, this place was absolutely breathtaking. The hiking trails are insane, and all the activities you can do will make memories for a lifetime. I did so much while I was here that I could not do in the US. Interning gave me great clinic experience and allowed me to work with patients that I could often not understand (due to the language barrier), it was fun overcoming that challenge. I got some valuable time in the clinic and gained observation hours for grad school. I also became friends with my coworkers.  The people definitely help make the experience. VACorps does a great at helping you feel at home and the friends you make are for a lifetime. I will definitely miss everything as a whole. I was here for 5 weeks and wish I could stay for longer. The VAC staff are fantastic and so friendly, and I am so grateful for the everyday support, and to them for facilitating this incredible experience.

I chose Cape Town because I felt that it was different from any other place I had been to previously, and I was right. I learned so much just from being immersed in the culture in South Africa, and I would say that's what I loved most. I came when I was only 19, and I learned some really valuable life skills such as cooking, cleaning, and fitness during my time here as well as the importance of being social and making the most of your time in a place. I worked for the daily show at a local TV station, which meant that I got to go out on shoots many times, specifically for arts events, and they were always very fun. I think I will miss the friendliness of South Africans, and I will also miss Table Mountain. I was originally only supposed to stay for 7 weeks, but I ended up extending it to 8 because I just wasn't ready to say goodbye. I personally think that 8 weeks was the perfect amount of time. The VACorps staff, specifically Kus, Kholi, and Loyiso, were amazing, and the weekly activities were also amazing.

My internship with Vacorps and my time in Cape Town were truly one of the best experiences of my life. The city of Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever seen. The mountains, beaches, winelands, city, and surrounding areas make it a must-visit destination. Surfing, hiking, and bungee jumping are some of the most fun things I’ve ever done. Through my internship at a local clinic in Khayelitsha Township, I was able to gain priceless hands-on experience and observe countless medical procedures. As a pre-medical student, this place is a great place to be to see many of the important things one will see in a career in medicine. All the doctors and nurses were super kind and helpful. The friends I made along the way through this experience are some that I will keep for a lifetime. Never before have I been able to live and work with such a diverse group of people. Finally, the Vacorps staff was nothing short of spectacular. They are wonderful people who you will never want to leave. I will cherish my five weeks with Vacorps for the rest of my life. If you have gotten this far reading this… you must apply for an internship!

I chose Cape Town mostly because it was a place I’ve always wanted to go. The people are friendly and the natural beauty is unbelievable. I absolutely loved my time here. I stayed for 3 Months and honestly I wish I could stay longer. It is a very easy place to fall into and live well for long periods of time. If you are staying for a long time one thing you really must do is put yourself out there to make new friends, not just with other travelers but with locals as well. It makes a huge difference having people who aren’t going to come and go. I much prefer Vac’s independent style more than constant handholding. Your days are completely yours, and if you don’t want to ever participate in activities you don’t have to (though I highly recommend it). Just one thing, if coming to cape town for a purpose of seeing a city representative of the continent, don’t be fooled. It in some ways similar but more often than not it is like a European city that just happened to be placed in Africa.

I chose to come to Cape Town because of the variety and quality of activities on offer, and I was not disappointed. Between the ocean and the mountain, Cape Town is a truly spectacular city, with countless things to do, places to see, and people to meet. I interned at a local school, where I was given the opportunity to teach classes, and make real connections with my students. I learned to live on my own and navigate a completely new city. I have grown so much from this experience, and I am going to miss all of the amazing people I met here more than anything else.

I chose Cape Town as a place to intern because I wanted to go somewhere international and the urban aspects of Cape Town along with having nature so close really appealed to me. The VACorps program really interested me because it was a much more independent gap semester program. After having done a semester group program this fall, I wanted to have a lot more freedom. I also love to travel and I had never been to Cape Town, let alone Africa, and I wanted to experience something completely different. The VACorps program did not disappoint, and I found it to be the perfect balance between work and play. I interned at a local school, and I loved the challenge and responsibility that the internship offered. I taught the kids alone for a lot of the internship, as my teacher was gone for 3 weeks during my time at the school. Although it was very overwhelming at times, it was nice having so much to do every day and working so closely with the kids. I also think it helped me learn how to manage stressful situations. My favorite thing about living here was how much there is to do. From coffee shops to museums, to the beach, hikes, and surfing, there was always something amazing to experience.

I chose Cape Town after browsing online for internship abroad programs. In my sophomore year of college, I decided, after networking with alumni from Ohio University, that going abroad was the right decision for me. I found VACorps along with CIS Abroad and a few other renowned programs. I knew VAC was right for me once I started the application process and began talking with the welcoming staff. Once I arrived I knew I made the right decision. It immediately felt like a second home and everyone I met, from staff, fellow employees, and locals were extremely nice. I worked for 7 weeks at a financial advisory and investment firm. I was able to receive instruction and the ability to work on projects in real estate and finance equally. I spent roughly 100 hours for each, by choice, to ensure that I would feel comfortable in a professional business setting by the time I left. My favorite project was a financial model that I am currently wrapping up now before I leave. I have learned so much about myself and the experience has come with a lot of growth, especially as this is my first time traveling alone – and abroad. Now that my 8-week trip is coming to a close, I can begin to reflect on everything I will miss. Most of all, the people are going to be the hardest to leave and it’s bittersweet meeting so many new friends but only being able to see them for such a short time. For anyone that plans on coming to Cape Town through VAC, I recommend communicating with everyone in your program from day one. It is the most important step to take and it can’t be anything but beneficial for you and your site, so don’t be afraid to reach out frequently and make sure you’re all on the same page. The weekly activities are amazing and they really allow you to make the most of your experience without having to schedule events yourself. From playing the drums to seeing museums, you will get exposed to culture in every form! Don’t be afraid to try out Xhosa or Afrikaans, it will strengthen your connection with people and show them that you respect and are interested in their culture! I am most grateful for the Friday experiences and I believe they took my experience one step further and made everything more memorable.

Four months ago, I could never have imagined myself being here. Becoming a member of VACorps and journeying to Cape Town wasn’t originally part of my life plan, yet it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. There is something about Cape Town that captures the heart and soul of a person and makes you never want to leave. The work I have been able to do at my internship site has been nothing short of amazing and every day I have felt as if I am making a small impact on the lives of others for the better. Nothing has affirmed that more than the countless Uber rides where drivers have told me stories about how the organization that I have been fortunate enough to work for has changed their lives for the better. Beyond the work, the number of adventures I have been able to go on, through VACorps and outside of it has been endless and all wonderful. I will come away from this journey having made countless memories that will last well beyond the moment when I embark on my journey home. Yet, the most rewarding part of this experience has without question been the people that I have gotten to experience Cape Town with. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I stepped off the plane, but right away I stepped into my house and was greeted with many welcoming faces. The VACorps staff has been wonderful and has constantly supported me throughout my time here, especially when things weren’t always going according to plan. I would without question recommend this experience to anyone that asked me about it because it truly has changed my life. Thank you for everything – Cape Town will always have a part of my heart

I have had the time of my life in Cape Town these past weeks. I have been able to enjoy both the touristy things as well as immerse myself in South African culture. I have loved being my internship at the clinic, and have learned some Xhosa and been shown what it is like to live in a township in Cape Town. I have loved the nurses and doctors at the clinic as well- they were more than willing to teach me and encourage me. I felt respected by the clinic staff, as well as the staff at VACorps. They helped me get the most out of my experience. I enjoyed living in the house provided with RAR and that there were other VACorps interns in other houses. I liked getting to know the other interns that were from all over the world and doing all sorts of internships. It helped show me the versatility of the city and the opportunities available in the country. I honestly think that this is one of the most beautiful places that I have ever been- geographically and culturally. The people that I have met here and had the opportunity to learn from have shown me how rich the culture in South Africa is, and the differences from back home. I also appreciate that I got a taste of what medicine looks like outside of the USA. I feel as though the United States has a generally common theme between medical systems, so I learned a lot from the different care here. Overall, I think that the staff at VACorps did an incredible job in helping me feel welcomed and comfortable. They helped me ease into living in another country on my own and talked me through what it looked like to have a successful experience here. I also loved where I got placed for my internship, and would not change a thing about my time spent in this beautiful country. This has really been an experience that I will carry with me forever. I can’t wait to tell everyone at home about what I got to do and learn!