Eydie Kaplan

Eydie joined the VACorps program in January 2026 as part of her gap year. During the program, she completed a Medical internship with a community-based medical organization in Cape Town.

When choosing where to spend my gap year, I wanted a place that would feel completely different from anywhere I had been before, while still offering meaningful learning opportunities. VACorps not only met those expectations but exceeded them. During my time in Cape Town, I was able to learn more about myself while also exploring my interest in medicine and gaining experiences I would not have had back home.

Through my internship at a community-based healthcare setting, I had the opportunity to take part in hands-on learning, observe procedures, and engage with patients in a real clinical environment. These experiences helped me better understand what a future in medicine could look like. I also discovered that I am especially interested in more specialized and fast-paced areas within the field, particularly when working with children.

Outside of the internship, the VACorps program organized weekly activities that allowed us to explore the city and learn more about the local culture. From outdoor adventures to community visits, these experiences made my time in Cape Town even more meaningful. I am incredibly grateful for this experience and how it has helped prepare me for both my future career and the next steps in my journey.