Jessica is studying her Bachelor of Child and Youth Care at MacEwan University.  She joined the VACorps Program in May 2019 and participated in a social work internship at an NGO that offers trauma and addiction counseling to at-risk communities.  

“Coming into this internship, I am a 3rd-year undergraduate student. I have aspirations to become a Counselling Psychologist and desired to learn as much as I could from an organization that did just that! Taking on my own clients was incredibly eye-opening, challenging and rewarding for me. I was given the space to grow and make mistakes while being supported and encouraged along the way. VAC was able to connect me with an organization that matched exactly what I had desired to learn/be a part of as well as elements that I didn’t know I needed/wanted! This opportunity was one that is incredibly unique and offers fresh perspectives that are so applicable to bring back home with me. 

Completing an internship in SA through VAC has become a season in my life that I will never forget! The diversity and energy in this city are incredible-we never came up short on things to do and there are countless opportunities to plug yourself into and get you out of your comfort zone. From my three months here in SA, my experience has been one of contrasts-from fine dining in the city, to pasta kitchen meals with folks surviving on the streets, to South African braai’s in the townships! There are countless opportunities for learning and growth and I have most definitely been changed because of it. The VAC staff are full of life and love for their city and their cultures and made SA a safe and welcoming place to call home for three months!”