Carter Medved

Carter joined the VACorps program in January 2026 as part of his gap year. During the program, he completed an internship in environmental science and entrepreneurship with a clean energy–focused organization in Cape Town.

I chose Cape Town because I wanted an internship abroad that felt both meaningful and challenging, somewhere I could learn in a new environment while working on real-world issues. I opted for an internship instead of just traveling because I wanted structure, professional experience, and a clearer sense of what I’m interested in long term. Cape Town offered the perfect mix of global relevance, culture, and everyday adventure, and it truly delivered.

What I appreciated most was how quickly the work became real and impactful rather than just busywork. Through my internship with a sustainability-focused consulting organization, I gained valuable insight into the professional world while also learning more about myself, especially that I thrive when given responsibility and ownership over my work. A highlight for me was researching and writing my own article on developments in the energy sector, as well as contributing to written content and helping develop a workflow to identify new opportunities more efficiently.

I stayed for two months, which felt like a great amount of time, though I would recommend at least 8–10 weeks to fully settle in and build momentum. My biggest advice would be to come with an open mind and say yes to activities early on, it’s the best way to meet people and make the most of the experience. The VACorps staff were supportive and responsive throughout, and the weekly activities were a great way to explore the city and build a sense of community.