Reviews
Real stories from real participants, parents and university partners who share their experiences as well as their advice. Learn more about the benefits Connect-123 interns and volunteers receive on our programs around the world!
Scroll down to view all – or filter by destination, opportunity or both.
Karen Ross
If you're looking for a program that will not only enhance your resume but also your personal and travel experiences, Connect-123 helps you far surpass these needs. My three months in Cape Town were filled with not only internship work and cultural engagements, but also the formation of life-long connections with co-workers, fellow interns, and locals. I interned at a human rights NGO which allowed me to see and work with the various facets of a non-profit organization. My passion for human rights and social studies was fuelled by the numerous opportunities that my internship and Connect-123 offered. When I wasn’t working, I was immersed in South African culture, traveling the coasts, townships, and winelands. From oceans, to mountains, to nightlife and the countryside, South Africa has so much to offer. However, my favorite part of my Cape Town experience was the refugee children with whom I was very lucky to work with and get to know. Thanks to Connect-123 and their continuous help and support throughout my internship, I had the most incredible experience of my life!
Internships in Cape Town
Alli Assiter
My time in South Africa has changed my life forever. When I signed up with Connect-123 I expected to have a change of scenery and gain another experience to enhance my resume. I did not expect everything else that I gained from this experience. The Connect-123 staff did an excellent job of using my interests and strengths to find me the internship that fitted me perfectly. I worked with an HIV/Aids Campaign in the township of Khayelitsha. I was able to go into the township everyday and work to help the problems of HIV, safety, and security. I got to plan protests and events in the community, attend court hearings, and work with the people in the township to enhance their lives. Through this internship I was able to really identify working in human rights as my passion and something that I want to spend the rest of my life doing. Not only did I have a rewarding work experience that really benefited me professionally and personally, I was able to make life long friends that I still keep in touch with. The other interns enhanced my experience and made my summer so much more fun. The living quarters are located in an amazing convenient location and it is so much fun to be able to walk five minutes to all your friends’ apartments. The Connect staff were friendly, fun, and extremely helpful. I knew that if I ever needed help or guidance that they would go out of their way to fix the problem I was experiencing. They planned extra events like cooking classes, trips to the beach, and wine tastings that let me experience South African culture and learn more about a fabulous country. The staff really goes above and beyond to make sure that you get the most you can out of your experience. Spending my summer doing a Connect-123 internship was the best decision I have ever made and the best time of my life. I would recommend to anyone to work with Connect-123 in South Africa. It is an experience you will always remember and never forget.
Internships in Cape Town
Alyssa Johnson
I recommend this program for absolutely anyone! I spent three of the richest and most memorable months of my life interning for a human rights organization just outside of the city. I was given real work to do that directly related to my University coursework. My coworkers and the entire Connect team were so welcoming and always made sure I had plenty of activities to keep busy with. I quickly felt a part of the family, both at work and within Connect 123. I also had the opportunity to do real “hands-on work” that I perhaps wouldn’t have been able to working for a similar organization at home. Beyond this, I loved living with other interns, traveling around the region, and exploring all Cape Town has to offer. My advice to anyone thinking about studying or interning abroad: do it! Post-Cape Town, I am not only more marketable in my field, but also blessed with amazing memories and many new friends. I find little things every day that remind me of my time in South Africa, and know it won’t be too long until I’m back!
Internships in Cape Town
Amanda Palaka
My internship experience in Cape Town was incredible and I have the people at Connect- 123 to thank. The staff was very helpful and did a great job in helping me with preparations prior to my arrival in South Africa. Melanie contacted me several times and helped find me the perfect internship for my interests. The program arranged transportation from the airport, housing and helped answer all my pre-departure questions. During my stay Connect-123 stayed connected by following up with how my internship was progressing and planned many social activities to get to know other interns with the program and experience all South Africa has to offer. This was the best part of the experience. I had a phenomenal internship with a women’s rights NGO and was given more responsibilities than I could have expected as an intern. I had the chance to explore South Africa and share the experience with people who have become lifelong friends. Without Connect-123 none of this would have been possible, or at least not have come as easy.
Internships in Cape Town
Michelle Beattie
My time with Connect-123 was one of the best experiences of my life. I was able to gain valuable experience in my area of study and make lasting relationships with other interns. The staff were very helpful and involved, making sure that I was satisfied with my internship and general experience in South Africa. Melanie was especially helpful and was a very important person in making my time in Cape Town as great as it was. Thank you so much!
Internships in Cape Town
Alyssa Thompson-Tucker
Finding an internship through Connect-123 made the previously stressful task of finding one myself, instantaneously simple. Directly after inquiring about Connect-123 I was contacted by Steven and shortly thereafter they had found me an internship with a non-profit organization, which fit both my interests and qualifications. Not only was everyone at Connect wonderfully friendly and helpful, but they were also always available if you needed anything. I personally think the best part about Connect is the freedom you are given. Unlike other internship programs where everyone lives, eats and commutes everywhere together, you can do as much with the Connect program or as little as you want. I was already planning to live with friends in Cape Town, so this made Connect the perfect fit.
Internships in Cape Town
Crystal Fisher
Connect-123 works hard to find a great internship that meets all your needs. This was no exception for me. I had the opportunity to work with one of the leading human rights NGOs in the country that gave me hands on experience with the social problems of South Africa. I could see immediate results from the volunteer projects I was asked to lead and the field work I participated in showed me the impact my work had on the communities. If it were not for Connect-123 I’m not sure I could have found a more fitting place to call my home for three months. Cape Town is certainly a city that grows on you with never-ending excitement and entertainment to keep you busy once the work day ends. My stay definitely wasn’t long enough and I look forward to returning there one day as it is a place that I’ve made some of my most treasured memories and friends!
Internships in Cape Town
