What made this intern abroad experience unique and special?
Nkatya: It was global in every sense of the word. It attracted young students and professionals from Austria, Belgium, China, Costa-Rica, Ghana, India, Singapore, Turkey and Zambia – representing 5 continents. I have built an international network of upcoming leaders. If I need to call in a favor in the future, I now have contacts in 8 countries. Your network is your net-worth.
Also, I always say this was not an “internship” in the traditional sense of the word. I worked on projects that had a real impact on the company and it felt great to know I contributed to something big! I was also challenged to learn more about myself and collaborate in a diverse team where every member has a fantastic idea but you can only go with one. You cannot learn that in a textbook.
Tell us about an experience you had that you could not have had at home.
Nkatya: I am excited about social entrepreneurship and global business in general. The San Francisco Bay Area is the world capital for innovation and entrepreneurship – we have Silicon Valley in our backyard. I have attended several fantastic events where I have networked with leading industry professionals, some of which have led to one-on-one meetings with renowned entrepreneurs. This one-on-one time would not be possible back home. I’ve had to pinch myself sometimes saying, “I cannot believe I am here in front of you and you agreed to meet me?” Those are the priceless moments.
What did Collabriv do for you and what did you need to do on your own?
Nkatya: Wow! All I had to do was apply, they connected me to the Company, and found me a fantastic Host family, enrolled me into Saint Mary’s College of California and identified a Health Insurance to cover me. All I had to do after being accepted into the program was go to the US Embassy to apply for the Visa. It was a smooth process, because Collabriv ensured that I had everything I needed to meet the visa requirements.
Honestly, I don’t think I would have done it without Collabriv. We all know College applications are a nightmare, and don’t get me started on job applications. It is always harder if you live outside the US. Then you need to figure out your health insurance and accommodation. Collabriv definitely made this process seamless and enjoyable.
Do you think the program changed you as a person?
Nkatya: Yes and No. Yes, because I can confidently say that I live with a more open heart, mind and spirit. I always say that the other interns brought the world to me. I may not have travelled to India, Costa-Rica or Turkey but I feel that through my relationships with my international family I have “travelled” or “experienced” their unique cultures. I will always carry them with me in my heart and that definitely changes you.
No, only because I feel that I actually became more comfortable in my skin and really got to learn more about myself at a deeper level. Understanding what makes me tick and what does not has allowed me to become or grow into more of myself. I don’t know if you call that change, I think its more growth.