Internships in Cape Town with VACorps

I thoroughly enjoyed every second of my time in South Africa even though Covid-19 limited what we could do. I did my internship at a local clinic in one of Cape Town's Townships, and achieved everything I set out to do. I gained a better understanding of how other countries structured their healthcare system, and got first hand experience of the type of care provided. Importantly, I felt that I was able to help the staff whenever I was capable of doing so.

I loved the variety Cape Town has to offer, whether it be food options, hikes, or other activities. I will miss exploring Cape Town with other interns. I believe that VACorps provides the best possible living situation for anyone traveling to another country alone. They went out of their way to ensure a great experience, and the friends I made while here are friends I will have for my life.

I wanted to develop myself in 2021, and VACorps paired me with companies where I got mentors that have really guided me, believed in me and encouraged me through it all. Into the bargain, the beauty of this stunning city made this a wonderful experience as I have been able to to explore and meet amazing people in Cape Town. It feels like a dream to wake up in the morning to the view of the mountain and a beach 10mins away. The food is amazing as well. Some of my favorite experiences at my internship were being involved in the quiz night at my site and my supervisor offering to pay my toast masters membership. It made me feel like my efforts were seen, and I felt appreciated.

I would recommend this program to anyone who shares the same interests of personal development and also anyone who wants to travel and gain some life experience in an incredibly beautiful country with a rich culture and friendly people. I will miss everything about VACorps, Cape Town, and all the amazing people I have met along the way.

My time in Cape Town could not have gone better. Though the pandemic limited some of what we were able to do, it did not negatively impact my experience mostly because of the people that surrounded me. Before arriving, I was worried about whether I'd get along with everyone as it is a very diverse group of people, but later I learned there was absolutely nothing to worry about. I found my people here which also allowed me to grow as a person. With this being my first trip alone, I knew there would be challenges, but the VACorps staff and participants were there for me every step of the way. I've only been here for 6 weeks but it has already become my second home and wish I was able to stay longer! The internship placement at a clinic was great as well since I'm studying medicine which gave me the experience I couldn't have gotten in the US as an undergraduate student.

When I first started traveling to South Africa alone, I was terrified I wouldn’t fit in or have fun. However, as soon as I arrived at the airport I immediately felt welcomed. The VACorps staff were super supportive, and I felt like I always had someone I could talk to or ask questions. While my internship at Retreat Clinic was great, what I loved the most were my fellow interns. Everyone was so open-minded and fun, there was always someone to explore Cape Town with. I only stayed for 5 weeks, and wish I stayed for much longer. I would recommend staying for at least 2 months to get the most out of your experience here. This was by far the best experience of my life, and I can’t wait to come back.

In the middle of COVID, I was looking for the opportunity to get off of Zoom and travel abroad during an off-term from University. Luckily, I learned about VACorps through a friend and inquired about the program. I had abroad planned through my university for the past winter, but they were canceled due to the pandemic. So, the opportunity to travel to an amazing place like Cape Town was an opportunity I had to pursue. The process was extremely easy and helpful, and I began working at the educational non-profit in the Crossroads Township. Throughout my time at my internship site, I learned both about the history of townships and South Africa, and the relationship between education/after-school programs and crime/gangsterism. As for my specific work, I worked with my friend and fellow intern Mateo, helping to grow the online presence of the organization through media and video. I filmed and edited Portraits of Crossroads, an interview series showcasing the most prominent members of the Crossroads community. During my time in Cape Town, the VACorps staff ensured a smooth transition into the city and constant support through my stay.

Going into college one of my main goals was to study abroad. Once my term in Buenos Aires got canceled, I feared that wouldn't come to fruition. I chose Cape Town somewhat on a whim; I knew it was a beautiful city and to be honest, I just wanted to go somewhere. I believe I could not have made a better decision. Everything worked out great, from my internship and getting to know my supervisor, to playing soccer with a local club, to surfing in Jeffries Bay. I truly had an amazing experience here and made many memories I will never forget. My time seems to have flown by and I feel like I could stay other several months without blinking an eye. I am so grateful to VAC for giving me this opportunity and I could not recommend it enough for those looking to have some sort of international experience.

I started my internship with VACorps remotely (due to difficulties traveling Coronavirus) for four months before moving on-site to complete my work. I was interning with the human rights program helping to deliver domestic violence prevention programs. Initially, I chose to intern in Cape Town with VACorps due to the relevance of the project with my career goals (in this regard, my placement was superb) and the exciting opportunity to travel and be immersed in another culture and way of life. I really enjoyed my project and felt like I was listened to, well supported, and allowed to explore the projects that helped me reach my internship goals.

What I was not expecting was the amazing activities and culture series that VACorps provided. They were a really nice way to get to do some fun activities and explore the beautiful sites that Cape Town has to offer. Kholi, Kuselwa, and Leanne at VACorps were very supportive and did their best to make sure that everyone felt happy and comfortable. I really appreciated their help and friendship upon arrival in Cape Town, meeting them was a very warm welcome to town.

All in all, I loved my time in Cape Town. The internship was everything I had hoped for and I believe it will help to kick off my career. Cape Town is truly beautiful and has something for everyone to explore, with beautiful hiking, beaches, and loads of interesting history. The local people and staff at VACorps are super friendly and make you feel right at home. I’d highly recommend this internship program!

At my current life-stage, I already knew that the common exchange program that was offered to me in Brazil wouldn’t meet my objectives, so I started looking for a different type of experience that would provide me not only the opportunity to immerse myself in a completely different culture but also improve my CV as well as build on my life experiences. When I started researching the VACorps program and had my first chat with a VACorps staff member, I knew this was the program for me. Being able to come to a different country and experience a different lifestyle was a dream come true, especially to a country where I could develop my English skills. The internship was also hugely beneficial. and gave me a different perspective for my future and my career. I am so grateful for my incredible experiences in Cape Town, which would not have happened without the VACorps program and the support of the VACorps staff.