Eric H

Eric joined the Vacorps program in January 2025 as part of their GAP year and participated in a public health internship.  

I chose Cape Town because VAC offered public health placements for internships. When I was researching options for my gap year, I found public health opportunities difficult to come by, so VAC’s program made the decision easy. I wasn’t familiar with Cape Town—or Africa, for that matter—but I was excited to travel somewhere completely new and immerse myself in a different culture. I’m so glad I made that choice, because I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here.

During my internship, I learned a great deal about the research process, including applying for ethics approval, communication, recruitment, and data analysis. I also really enjoyed exploring the variety of research projects going on at my internship site. It was fascinating and inspiring.

Outside of my placement, I met wonderful people through VAC and even better friends through Rent-A-Room. Although not all my Rent-A-Room roommates were VAC interns, we bonded instantly, and I’m sure they’ll be lifelong friends.

Cape Town also helped me reconnect with my sense of adventure, my love for the outdoors, and my joy in exercise. As a former collegiate athlete, my relationship with working out had often been intense and complicated. But by joining run clubs (like Tuesday Trails and Running Late Club), hiking with friends, and taking long walks on the promenade, I was able to rewrite that relationship into a healthier one which is something I’m excited to carry back home with me.

Some of my favorite memories include traveling to Kruger National Park and along the Garden Route. Both unforgettable experiences that I highly recommend to any future interns. Other highlights were visiting Boulders Beach, Cape Point, and riding the Wine Tram.

I stayed for three months, which felt like the perfect amount of time for me. I’m sad to be leaving, but I also feel ready to return home grateful for the memories, skills, and friendships I’ll take with me.