“I chose Cape Town because I had heard many nice things about it but also because I wanted to experience a different part of South Africa having previously visited Jo’burg and Durban. Cape Town did not disappoint! It has a great vibe, the place and people are very nice and laid-back. There are also a lot of really cool places to visit (restaurants, tourist attractions, etc.). I was in Cape Town for about 2 months and I loved everything about living there – I wish I could have stayed longer.

My internship-experience opened my eyes to a lot of things about myself. Working at a site where I met people with a wide range of psychological problems really sharpened my observation and communication skills and enhanced my emphatic and compassionate side. I had to ‘hit-the-ground-running’, however it was a challenge that I welcomed with open arms and an open heart. I gained a lot of knowledge and skills (tools/ approaches) that will serve me well in my professional career as a Counselor Psychologist.”

“The staff at the site where I did my internship really made me feel welcome and they were very supportive. But what will really stay with me for a very long time is the desperation among some of the clients that I attended or met in the course of my internship. It humbled me and made me feel very fortunate to serve the local community.”

“The VACorps program is well thought out and organized – the pre-arrival info and support, logistic arrangements on arrival, you name it. Everything was spot on! ALL the staff at VAC are great and very supportive. I felt good about the program from the very first email I received after my inquiry. The constant check-ins by staff at VAC and the weekly activities help to keep interns and volunteers in touch with one another and with the program. It is very reassuring to know that you have a family away from home. I appreciated the fact that I had an option to choose my internship site based on the information that VAC shared about the available options.

I could say many more positive things about the VACorps program but those really stood out for me. My VACorps experience was amazing- I definitely recommend them if you are considering an internship opportunity abroad.