Reviews

Blake Cooper

Connect-123 offers a great fit for someone looking for an experience that goes beyond the traditional study abroad program. Regardless your level of experience with traveling, living or working abroad, Connect-123 can help you find your place, get acquainted with the local environment and culture and settle into an exciting new chapter in your life. I had been to Buenos Aires once before, and was looking for an experience that allowed me to use my previous knowledge of the place to live comfortably and authentically among the local population. 

Connect-123 was crucial in helping me find a placement, filling me in with vital information I didn't know from previous experience (information about things like hospitals and the city layout) and offering weekly events where I could meet up with fellow travelers in a social setting. But they were also excellent about giving me the space I needed to find my own way. It really was the best of all possibilities with Connect, and I couldn't recommend them highly enough for someone looking for a unique experience that will set you apart.

Isabelle Jackson

My experience in Buenos Aires was inolvidable. With the support of Connect-123, I experienced the rhythms of the city, its diverse architecture and neighborhoods, the porteños, delicious food (medialunas, dulce de leche, empanadas, asados, mate, and more), and made amazing friends! I fell in love with Buenos Aires. I spent two months with Connect during my gap year, hoping to work abroad and to become fluent in Spanish. I had a meaningful and challenging internship at a non-profit combatting economic crime; I focused on studying and reducing the market of human trafficking and I published reports in both Spanish and English. I learned to navigate a new language, work culture, and field of study; this invaluable experience will absolutely shape what I choose to study in college. Connect-123 is a great organization that helped me with whatever I needed, especially when I first arrived to the city. Connect staff provided support but not hand holding. This gave me a chance to take risks and to grow in so many ways. I can recommend Argentina highly enough - come live, work, and travel in this incredible country filled with a passion for life, love, and fútbol. Thank you for everything! I know I'll be back to Buenos Aires.

Rachelle Jacoby

After college, I always wanted to be able to live abroad and volunteer in a cause I really believed in. After searching through many programs, I came across Connect-123 and I couldn't have been happier. The program coordinator found me an awesome house in Buenos Aires, I ended up living with about 12 people, half Argentines and half foreigners, a perfect mix. She also found an amazing organization where I worked with children and hunger, exactly the type of organization I was looking for. The day I arrived, I had an introduction meeting with my coordinator where I was given a lot of helpful information and tips about the city. Connect offered a great support system during my 6 months in Argentina, every week, they had a different activity that you could participate in. I really liked the very "hands off" feel of the organization, you could be as involved with the Connect community as you wanted. I'm very happy with how my time turned out and I can't wait to go back!

Tory Scordato

Interning in Cape Town through Connect-123’s program has been absolutely wonderful! After interning through Connect in Dublin and having a great time, Connect-123 was the first program I looked at for an internship this summer. All the Connect staff I’ve worked with have been so friendly and have always gone above and beyond to help me with anything I need, from local restaurant suggestions all the way to fixing the TV in my apartment. They placed me at a great internship where I’ve been able to really get hands on experience in the non-profit sector. My coworkers were excited to have me join them and want me to get the most out of my time here, so right from the start I’ve been able to do meaningful work.

The program Connect-123 offers, where you get to spend more time in a city than just a normal vacation, is truly one of a kind. Living abroad has taught me so much about myself and I’ve gotten to see and do some amazing things that I might not have gotten the opportunity to otherwise. There is so much more to do here in Cape Town than I expected, from hiking and museums to wine tours and safaris. I’ve met some incredible people here in Cape Town, including locals, other students in the Connect program and people from all over the world also enjoying everything Cape Town has to offer.

Nina Brosman

Barcelona is your next trip! If it's not, change your travel plans immediately and get on a flight to Spain! Bursting with vibrant culture and nightlife as well as some of the kindest people in the world, Barcelona is the place to be.

During my internship through Connect-123, I had the opportunity to truly experience life as a real "Barcelonese." I was able to intertwine myself into the culture and the language for a full immersion experience filled with new friends, personal discovery, and unbelievably delicious food! However, while living abroad changes you (usually for the better!), I still felt like myself throughout the entire experience because my internship was so tailor-made to fit my personal interests and strengths.

I believe I was able to get a lot out of this opportunity because my work was so closely tied and reflective of my personality that I could learn and grow in the areas I wished to improve upon in order to succeed. The internship was valuable to my future career because it allowed me to test the waters of what a life in this field would consist of and now after completing my program with Connect-123, I'm diving in headfirst!

Aysha Iqbal

My internship experience with Connect-123 was amazing. Being able to work in a public hospital Dublin, Ireland allowed me to experience a new country as well as gain experience in my future career path. I was able to see and do things within the healthcare field that I would not been able to do back home.

This internship allowed for me to grow both as a person and a future healthcare professional. Having the weekends off allowed for me to travel in and out of Ireland, and I got to see many different cultures. Our program coodinator was very helpful and always available which made moving to a new country a smoother experience. In fact, the entire Connect-123 staff was engaging and friendly. They would have weekly events for all the interns, which helped us make friends with each other.

My favourite part of the experience was being able to build new relationships with my Irish co-workers and housemates, as well as strengthen relationships with my friends who interned in Dublin as well. We all became a family and I am glad I got to share all my experiences with them. I miss Dublin already and cannot wait to come back!

P.S. – you must try the Taytos potato chips, they are the best!

Maddie Prause

This past summer I had the privilege of interning at an at-risk youth program in Dublin. First off, I I could not actually believe what an incredible summer this one became. From the best roommates and the other long-lasting friendships formed from other participants in the program, to all the exciting socials from the beginning of my stay I knew I was meant to be here.

As a youth coordinator for an underprivileged children’s summer program in Dublin city, I worked with students around the ages of 12-15. I got to attend many of field trips exploring all their beautiful country had to offer as well as promote leadership through all different types of activities. These kids quickly stole my heart and we had the best times traveling, creating arts and crafts, or doing community service. Their Irish culture made a profound impact on me and I learn things that classrooms simply could not offer.

I had an unbelievable incredible time thanks to Connect-123 for coordinating my internship as well as the lovely housing at UCD. If I could return back to my internship in Dublin I would drop everything and go right now! If you ever have the opportunity to travel abroad go go go!

Hee Myoung Park

I think I am really lucky that I had the chance to work with awesome people in Dublin during my Summer internship in Dublin.

I learned a lot and know now what direction my career is heading in.  Just put your faith in Connect-123! At the end, you will know that your choice wasn't waste of your time and money. You will love a whole new chapter in Dublin, Ireland and this experience will make your resume stand out from the crowd. One more advantage for you to staying in Ireland is that you can travel all around Europe with very cheap flights. The location of Ireland is perfect for travelling other European countries. There are also sightseeing tour buses in Dublin and day tours to Galway, Belfast and Wicklow. All these travels will make your life more energetic and positive. Don't hesitate to go with Connect-123, just do it!

Kate Nunke

I could not have asked for a better experience in Dublin. Connect staff were more than helpful upon arrival. I was placed in a house with a couple other Connect-123 interns along with housemates from all over the world. We all got to learn about each other’s home countries. My housemates were my best friends throughout my stay! Connect-123's Dublin coordinator provided opportunities to meet up with other Connect-123 students during the time I was there. We always enjoyed that because we got to share each other’s work, travel, and social experiences in Ireland. My internship was incredible. I really enjoyed my coworkers and my boss. They were willing to help me learn more about PR and Marketing within their industry. I learned more than I could have imagined. It was an amazing experience to see the Irish culture within a business. I loved learning the differences between American and Irish business/marketing. Connect-123 was always very helpful when we wanted to take a day trip or any sort of trip within Ireland. Traveling all around Ireland was stunning. My housemates and I were very impressed by the sites. Each city we visited was very different, and it was interesting to see that within such a small country. Can’t wait to go back!

Vanessa Gillette

It was a bit of a rash decision to intern in Barcelona with Connect-123. I was already spending two months in Spain, so I figured I mind as well round out my summer travels with an internship in Barcelona. Well, the month I spent in Barcelona did not "round out" my summer, it made my summer! It is impossible to summarize my experience in a testimonial. My internship placement was exactly what I was hoping for. It challenged me everyday as I produced marketing content and communicated in a spanish speaking business environment. I discovered new skills and gained self-confidence. It was exciting and invigorating.

Now I feel I can take on the world (or at least my next job/internship). I cannot recommend Barcelona enough. I am mentally prepared to pack up and move to this amazing city for good! I lived in a great neighborhood with vibrant locals who often held live-concerts right outside my window. I lived close enough to run to the beach in the morning and watch the amazing sunrise. Barcelona feels like a big city because it has so much to offer. Yet, it's small enough to feel like home.

And finally, Connect-123 lived up to the name by connecting me with other interns who are now lifelong friends. Coming from vastly different countries and cultures, my friends inspired me every day. We learned from each other's experiences and celebrated our differences. I truly believe that meeting people from around the world can broaden your perspective on life. We met in a paella cooking class organized by Connect-123, but soon we were inseparable and organizing our own adventures such as hiking Montserrat and exploring beaches of la Costa Brava. I am saddened to leave Barcelona behind, but I take solace in knowing that it is only goodbye for now. Thanks to my internship, my friends, and all the adventures, I have fallen in love with this city. I know I'll be back again one day!

Tiana Winstead

Whether it was the people, the place, or the food my time in Shanghai was nothing short of enchanting and exciting. No matter the time, place, or day I knew that I could always do something new. Shanghai for me was an indescribable experience that mesmerized me, particularity its ability to fulfill all of my desires in just one city! I could find myself bargaining with street venders, eating giant ice-cream macaroons, climbing the stairs of a Buddhist temple in the rain, or on the rooftops enjoying the sunset over the skyline. However, the best experience was my law internship with some of Shanghai’s top-notch international lawyers! My time and experience with these lawyers has by far been my most valued personal and professional exposure. My tasks included daily updating the firm’s social media pages, translations of legal documents, conducting presentations, and just being a part of a team! The lawyers were so kind, inclusive, caring, and best of all they were genuinely interested and invested in my future and me. My internship opportunity would not have been possibly without the help of Connect-123! With the help of Connect-123 I was picked up from the airport with ease, lived in an amazing apartment, and land the internship of my dreams! Additional, the weekly dinners and outings with other Connect-123 internships were a great way of establishing a friend group in a foreign country. By the end of my time in Shanghai, I not only had a great career experience but I made friends that I have stayed in contact with for months after I returned home.

Heather Lodahl

My experience in Cape Town, South Africa was unforgettable! I had no idea what to expect out of the city or my internship, but I was pleasantly surprised with all of it. Connect-123 helped make my dream of an international internship a reality. The Cape town staff was available and helpful with all my questions and concerns as I navigated through visas, housing and the internship process. I never felt uncertain about being in a new place because the Connect-123 team are friendly and engaging. Cape Town is a beautiful,vibrant, and culturally diverse place. I enjoyed the beach, hiking, camping, biking, and an amazing road trip on the garden route (and of course feeding elephants!). More importantly, I had a great internship at a NGO dedicated to empowering women who have experienced domestic violence. This internship challenged me and provided me with insight to the social and cultural history of South Africa and its people. I really enjoyed working with my colleagues and contributing to the quality of lives of so many women. The people, scenery, and delicious food are only a few reasons why Cape Town will always have a place in my heart. Connect-123 is a great organization and I would recommend using their services to make your dreams a reality too!

Simona Kipfer

Arriving in Cape Town, the Connect-123 Team welcomed me and made sure that I felt comfortable in my new home. They assured me that if I had problems or questions I could always come to them. Staying in an apartment meant meeting not only other program participants but also a bunch of locals, which is a huge privilege. It`s never gets boring, that’s for sure, and you are never on your own.

Two Days after my arrival I started my internship at a marketing & online media company. I don't how the Connect-123 Team managed it to find the perfect internship for me, but they did! I wasn’t so sure about what I wanted to do so I told them that I am quite open and somehow they found something that matches perfectly with my interest. I loved working there and I am sure that this internship furthers me in previous jobs. As I did my journey to South Africa straight after High School, I have no working experience and you can`t imagine how much working, but also life experience I gathered by doing this. Besides working, you can undertake a thousand things around here because Cape Town offers mountains, beaches, city enjoyments, nature reserves, everything that your heart demands. I'm not really into hiking, but this beautiful mountain landscape attracts even me.

Another advantage is the nightlife, besides the vibrant clubs and bars there is a lot going on like Jazz Festivals, Art Festivals, carnival and MANY braais. I will never forget this experience because it brought me one step closer to understanding our world.

Nothing is more exciting than foreign cultures and lifestyles and you can only get to know them by travelling. People always say that you are never too old to travel but you are never too young either!

Siena Fabiano

Wow! I have so much to say. I have never had such an amazing experience than living and volunteering in Barcelona, my favorite city in the world. Give yourself about two or three weeks to get settled in and then you can truly recognize what an unbelievable city Barcelona is. From the famous Catalonian tapas to the beautiful beaches, Barcelona is enriched with so much culture, diversity, and just the coolest people. There are so many fun things you can fill your days up with there. I am dreaming of going back now while writing this. It is also the perfect place to be situated for traveling to different parts of Europe. Everything is only a few hours away!

Connect-123 set me up with the most awesome volunteer opportunity at a children's hospital.The staff and all the patients turned out to be the most kind and patient people. I was immediately welcomed by an array of volunteers that showed me around and explained to me what I would be helping out with. The best part of the whole internship was the kids. Even though the language barrier was a tad difficult, the kids were just so happy to have someone hanging out with them playing games. I was truly in awe of what high spirits they had, no matter their circumstance. Their laughter and smiles were totally infectious making me leave the hospital everyday glowing with happiness.

My whole experience here let me step back for a minute and re-evaluate my values and outlooks on life for the better. I am so extremely fortunate and grateful to have this experience, and I thank Connect-123 for helping me set everything up.

Overall, I loved my time in Barcelona and would go back in a heartbeat!

Ivy Lee

I’m finding it very difficult to describe my time in Dublin. How can you put four months of incredible experiences into words? I have made some very good friends and seen breathtaking places. This internship has truly allowed me to expand my horizons by placing me in all the new experiences.

From traveling to work, everyday was filled with opportunities to learn and grow. It’s a scary thing to travel to a new country, knowing no one, and starting a job, but thankfully I had Connect-123 there to guide me. My program coordinator eased my nerves about my new internship, and being away in general, by showing me around and giving me advice about Dublin and my new job. She even put together events with other Connect-123 interns that allowed me to meet some of my now very good friends. Most importantly she helped place me in an internship with a great photography company, where I have spent the last four months working with phenomenal people, and expanding my knowledge on the field of photography.

It’s not often that someone gets this amazing opportunity to go abroad, work, travel, and have as much fun as I have had, so thank you so much to Connect-123 for giving me this once in a life time adventure.

Veikko Schepel

After finishing my bachelor’s degree in Environmental Sciences last Summer I decided to take a gap year to explore life outside of university. A few goals I had were to learn Spanish, visit and travel in South America and gain some work experience. By taking an internship via Connect-123 in Argentina I was able to combine all those goals. During my stay I helped in developing an ecological campus south of Buenos Aires. In my time there I learned a lot about the practice of creating a completely sustainable campus which was a great addition to my theoretical knowledge on sustainability. One of the highlights was building a bicycle driven laundry machine to wash our clothes in, which turned out really well! Connect-123 did a great job in connecting me with an internship and organization that not only suited me, but also challenged me and helped me grow on a personal level. Over the past months, I have not only vastly improved my Spanish, but also been able to experience and participate in the everyday life of locals in rural Argentina. The personal support given by Connect-123 after my arrival in Buenos Aires was helpful in getting to know the city, and finding my place in completely new surroundings. If you want to get to know another country and yourself better, this might be a good place to start!

Daniella Emami

I am forever grateful to Connect-123 for finding me my absolute dream internship here in Cape Town, and for giving me the opportunity to work at such a special, impactful organization. I worked at a local youth development nonprofit, doing monitoring and evaluation as well as research for the organization.

I was given an immense amount of responsibility right from the get-go of my internship, which is something that defined my entire experience. I was constantly affirmed and supported at work, and I know I am leaving Cape Town with a true family and amazing friends. This city and this country will always be in my heart, and this experience will always be in my memory.

I would recommend an internship with Connect-123 to anyone in a heartbeat!

Shanley Porter

I loved my experience in Buenos Aires with Connect-123! Connect made me feel welcomed right from the start and provided amazing and authentic cultural experiences the whole way through. While I made many local friends, it was fun to have a local connection right from the start and the support that you need when you're living away from home. 

Rebecca Sims

My time in Dublin was unforgettable. I was unsure of moving to a brand new place where I didn’t know anyone, but I couldn’t be happier with the way things turned out. From the moment I stepped off the plane I felt comfortable and happy. Connect-123 set me up with a fantastic homestay where I made some of the best friends I’ve ever had.

My first day in Dublin, my program coordinator showed me around the city and helped me find a bus route to my internship. She was also great about taking all of the interns to fun places and giving advice on things to see and do. Connect-123 set me up with the best internship I could have asked for. I had been wanting to gain more experience in the film world, specifically as a production assistant. That is exactly what I did among other things. I worked on several short films and added projects to my resume that I’m truly proud of. I had the opportunity to see things and meet people that I never could have otherwise.

Connect-123 did an incredible job at setting me up with exactly what I was looking for and helping me make memories I will hold on to forever! 

Charles Lavin

Living and working in Buenos Aires over my summer break was certainly one of the best experiences of my university career. I had had the desire to travel within Latin America for some time, but I also wanted further internship experiences to include on my CV. Through Connect-123, I was given a place to work in a local environmental NGO in Buenos Aires, as well as a place to stay.

Honestly speaking, both of these accommodations were way beyond my expectations. While the research and work I did was challenging, the office where it took place was a perfect fit for me. Once the work day was over, I would walk home excited to find my friends eagerly awaiting me on the terrace or over the parrilla. The people I shared a house with will remain friends of mine as long as I live. By going out and exploring the city around us, as well as the country or even the continent, I was left with an outstanding impact of how colorful life in Latin America can be.

I would recommend Connect-123 and Buenos Aires to anyone interested in environmental and international development, where they will be able to experience first hand what it is like to work doing something they truly care about, while constantly being motivated by the beauty of nature and society all around you.