Kylie Jeffrey - VACorps

Kylie Jeffrey

Illinois, USA

“In my undergraduate I did a 3 week winter break study abroad trip to Cape Town where I learned all about global inequities and racial inequality in Cape Town. Needless to say I fell in love with Cape Town and knew I had to come back again. Little did I know that it would be only a year later that I made my return. I found myself with a small break before starting graduate school for Occupational Therapy and I wanted to learn more about OT in an international setting. VAC was the perfect organization to give me the means to do so.

“Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. From its rich culture to amazing views, it is definitely somewhere worthwhile to visit. I absolutely loved being able to go hiking and lay out on the beach in the same day. I felt like everyday I could have a new adventure. I will never forget the amazing experiences I had and the down to earth people I met.

“VAC gives you the connection to instantly make friends from all over the world. Within days I felt like I was at home and had found friends who were ready to venture Cape Town with me. There was not one time I ever felt homesick or wondered why I came. If I didn’t have to start graduate school I would have tried to extend my stay.

“Outside of VAC, I made so many local friends who I will never forget. The people in Cape Town really made my experience. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming of international students.

“Lastly, internship was one of the best experiences I could have asked for. I got to work hands on at a school for children who were physically disabled. The OTs at my school let me do a lot of individual work and were confident in my abilities. I would love to come back to Cape Town one day and work as an Occupational Therapist!Thanks to everyone at Vac for giving me this experience!”