An Experience That Changed My Life

This summer, I went to South Africa as an intern, not knowing exactly what to expect. The staff had already told me what I would be doing in my unconventional situation, but that didn't stop it from being unconventional. As a 17 year old boy from Indiana, I entered a Projects Abroad program in Cape Town normally reserved for law students, working at the Projects Abroad Human Rights office. The experience blew me away.

For two weeks, I performed Human Rights work in the field of social justice that involved travelling across Cape Town to different schools, townships, and juvenile detention centers to perform recreational and educational activities with the kids. Projects Abroad also granted me the opportunity to design and present my own educational presentations on a variety of topics to help troubled youths between the ages of 5 and 17 dealing with very difficult situations. I was made to feel welcome by not only the staff, but the other interns in the office as well, despite my unusual situation.

The staff were fantastic, beginning to end. The coordinators helped in showing me around Cape Town, telling me about everything beforehand, and guiding me through the process of social justice work with the most gracious and accommodating manner. Projects Abroad has my undying gratitude for their hospitality in a place so foreign to me.

I also couldn't forget about my host family. My host mother, Faye, is probably the most kind-hearted person I've met. She was incredibly flexible in case of any complaint or issue and cooked two amazing (often-local) meals for us each day. There was no turning down a second serving with her, as there was always more than enough to go around. Our wonderful host father became our guide and driver, helping us to travel around, and my host siblings were all very welcoming. Faye and the others made South Africa feel like a home away from home.

I'll remember the beauty of stunning Cape Town for as long as I live. My time there has changed and shaped who I am. I would recommend ProjectsAbroad to anyone looking for a valuable intern experience and the chance to see beautiful places, help underprivileged people, meeting great friends, and take memories with them that will last a lifetime, especially if you are a college student preparing to study law, or already studying law.