Elle Hanninghurst

Elle is studying biology and participated in a conservation internship at an aquarium in Cape Town.

​Overall, my time in Cape Town, working at the Two Oceans Aquarium, has been an incredible experience that has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. I initially pursued this internship to gain clarity on my career path after college and chose Cape Town for its proximity to the ocean and the opportunity to work with the aquarium. Looking back, I’m so grateful for this decision—not only did I achieve my initial goals, but I gained so much more.

Professionally, I developed technical skills relevant to my field, gained hands-on experience with marine species, and built valuable connections in marine biology. Beyond that, I grew as a person, learned more about myself, and formed meaningful relationships with both locals and fellow interns in the VACorps program.

A key part of my positive experience was the support from VACorps. Even when I faced challenges, like getting sick multiple times, their staff went above and beyond—taking me to the doctor and pharmacy and checking in regularly. Their weekly activities and cultural sessions also enriched my time here, providing fun opportunities to bond with other interns while experiencing Cape Town’s vibrant culture.

I am deeply grateful to VACorps for making this experience so rewarding and unforgettable.