VACorps

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.