Cali Hernandez

Cali is a Physical Therapy student at Pacific University. In July 2024, he joined the VAC program and completed an internship at a school for children with visual impairments.

I chose Cape Town because it offered a unique cultural experience unlike anything I had encountered before. I was drawn to the city after reading about its breathtaking scenery, welcoming people, and exciting activities. The opportunity to experience South Africa while also working at a school for children with special needs was something I couldn’t pass up.

I chose to work at the school because its mission resonated deeply with me. Their dedication to serving underserved students and providing physiotherapy to those in need aligned perfectly with my own values. Everything about this experience was incredible—from working with students to trying new foods and activities. The people were warm, friendly, and eager to learn about me, which made adjusting to a new place even more special.

In total, I spent 75 days in Cape Town and 50 days at the school. If I had one piece of advice for future participants, it would be to give yourself enough time on both ends of your trip. Having a cushion allows you to adjust to the change, plan big activities, and fully soak in the experience. Some internships can be quite demanding, so having that extra flexibility helps ensure you don’t miss out on the things you truly want to do.

One of the highlights of my time here was the weekly adventure series. Traveling with a large group not only made me feel safe but also allowed me to explore incredible places while having so much fun. I’m especially grateful to the staff for making Cape Town feel like a home away from home.