My Unforgettable Summer in Cape Town

Cape Town is an ideal destination for those seeking a summer with a bit of everything. If you’re a nature lover, this city is a dream-Table Mountain hikes, national parks, safaris, and beaches that look unreal. If you enjoy city life, Cape Town has amazing nightlife, concerts, markets, and some of the best food from every corner of the world. You’ll never run out of things to do. With that being said, be very mindful of your spending. Things, especially food, might seem cheap if you are coming from a more expensive country, but they slowly add up.

My weekly schedule consisted of Mondays through Thursdays at my internship site, which was at the Scalabrini Center of Cape Town, and Fridays in an internship seminar. The Friday class gave us space to talk about South African work culture, the history of Cape Town, and the challenges or discoveries we were experiencing. It was also a great time to bond with the other interns and feel grounded in our purpose.

One thing future students should know: if you want to meet locals, you have to go out of your way. The program itself is mostly international students, so your best chance to connect with South Africans is through your internship site, going to local events, joining clubs or sports, or initiating conversations. It’s absolutely worth the effort, but don’t expect it to happen automatically. People are very friendly and genuinely interested in learning about you, so don't be scared to strike up conversations with the locals.

Overall, I truly loved my summer. Cape Town offers incredible growth, beauty, and experiences, and my internship allowed me to learn in a hands-on and meaningful way. It’s a program for anyone who wants adventure, independence, and a deeper understanding of a complex, vibrant city with a rich history.