Emily is studying Physical Therapy at Pacific University. She joined the VACorps program in September 2022 and participated in a sports PT internship at a rugby club. 

“I chose Cape Town because of the beautiful scenery and the opportunity to work with a sports team for my internship. I had the great opportunity to work with experts in the field of sports physical therapy at a rugby club. From physiotherapists to strength and conditioning coaches, to health and wellness experts; I had amazing mentorship from every staff member. I learned and was able to practice a lot of different techniques that I hadn’t yet learned in my program.  I was also made to feel so welcome from day one due to the welcoming nature of the staff and players. The high level of the athletes combined with the expertise of the support staff is unmatched in the internships elsewhere.

VACorps was the key to having the best time possible during my internship in South Africa. The staff were welcoming, gave great advice and recommendations, and bridged the gap between my background and the local culture here in Cape Town, SA. Everyone who is a part of the VACorps program is so welcoming and treats you like family. I have learned so much from the weekly culture series and had endless fun on the Friday adventures. The country is spectacularly beautiful and the people are of the nicest I’ve met while traveling. I highly recommend this experience to anyone who is considering taking a leap and participating in an internship in this beautiful city.”