Julia Frank

Julia joined the VAC program in June 2024 and took part in a medical internship at a public clinic.

I chose Cape Town because I wanted to explore somewhere new and exciting, and I had never been before! I decided to do an internship here because I wanted something more than just a traditional internship this summer—I wanted to experience public health and medicine in a different part of the world.

Interning here was an amazing experience. I got to see and learn things I would never have encountered in the US, especially how healthcare works differently here. I had the opportunity to take part in many medical procedures, and I reached my goals of pushing myself and trying new things. I was also really involved in patient care, which was something I loved.

This experience helped me learn a lot about myself, my future goals, and how I want to make a difference in the world. The people I worked with and the friends I made are unforgettable, and I will miss this experience deeply.

I stayed for six weeks, but I would recommend staying as long as you can and getting involved in every opportunity that comes your way!