Connect-123 Summer Internships Abroad

My experience with Connect-123 was one of the best things that happened to me. I was initially stressed and hesitant to go to another continent and nervous to be in a place where I know absolutely no one. However, Connect-123 guided me through every step of my journey and found me the job that I was looking for and always comforted me when I was feeling anxious. The coordinators of the program went above and beyond to make people feel welcomed and to assure that they have a great time in the city, and they would organize all sorts of activities and inform us of events happening in the city. I spent two months interning at an immigration law firm. I feel like I found a new family, I built great relationships with my coworkers and found a place that I could call my second home. It was an experience of a lifetime. I loved my stay in Barcelona to the point where I was considering moving back! Barcelona will always hold a special place in my heart. I am forever thankful for this experience!

Over the summer I was able to intern in Cape Town, South Africa and it was nothing short of amazing!!! My initial expectation was to gain an internship but, I left with so much more. Connect 123 not only guided me to the internship of my dreams but they also connected me to a new found family. I built lasting relationships with employers, made life-long friendships, and found my home away from home. Every day I worked alongside colleagues, reviewed analytics reports, and worked on currents projects. Interning not only confirmed my classroom knowledge but, it gave me a platform to develop new marketing skills. Connect 123 is an experience that will challenge you, connect you, and propel your professional career. They give you the tools necessary to succeed, so get ready you will leave better than you came.

Making the big decision to come to Dublin for the summer was very scary. I didn't know if I would enjoy my internship, meet any friends, or even like the city! Gladly, right after arriving all of my worries were put to rest. Through my time in Dublin, I grew professionally through my internship and was able to feel a sense of independence I never had before.

From the start, Connect-123 was there to promptly answer any questions or concerns I had every step of the way. They set me up with an internship that was fit exactly for me. I was fortunate to work for a small PR firm in Dublin that markets to women. The internship allowed me to learn so much about the PR world and decide it is what I want to pursue after graduation.

Through Connect-123, I made lifelong friends. We bonded through weekend adventures and a love for all of the opportunities Dublin had for us. I would not change one thing about my experience and I am so thankful to Connect-123 for this amazing opportunity.

Krystal LaDuc
State University of New York at Oneonta
Publishing Intern

Dublin was simply unforgettable. Those 2 months quickly became a life that I could not bear leave, and Ireland quickly became home. With an incredible internship in my field, true friendships, and a lively culture, Connect-123 provided a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Interning as a publications assistant, I was given the privilege to singlehandedly prepare a one-time sports anthology. This project included working closely with the publications manager, the editor, the designer, and the organization’s director. It involved compiling poetry, layout, proof reading, and negotiating copyrights from Irish and UK publishers. The internship included everything from working on this major publication to simple office work and even to attending exclusive poetic, artistic, and cultural events through the city. The Connect team worked hard to find an internship within my field that I was happy with, and I am so appreciative of all their efforts, communication, and reassurance.

Along with the internship, I was housed with an incredible group of other interns, which led to memorable trips and lasting friendships. With Ireland’s landscape, accessibility, and location we were able to take several weekend trips (in and outside the country) that were easy and affordable! In such a welcoming environment, both socially and professionally, Dublin was a comfortable city with endless sites and places to discover!

This experience is truly indescribable. I have grown immensely as an individual, a professional, and a traveler. I cannot imagine my life without the people I met in Ireland and the memories I have made. It was, by far, the best time of my life. Now it’s time for you to go have yours! You won’t regret it. Cheers!

This is the first time I have travelled alone and lived in a foreign country. Connect 123 not only gave me such an amazing opportunity as a pre-med student to work with children at a public hospital but also helped me prepare everything I need (such as housing) before my arrival, picked me up and made sure I was comfortable when I arrived and met up with me during my stay to make sure everything is ok (you have a lot of freedom so it's not like they were constantly on your back). Katie and Paula, especially Paula, were so friendly, and helpful. Also you become really close with other Connect123 interns because there are a lot of social events when you are not working.

The biggest difficulty is the spanish. I knew basic spanish beforehand but in Buenos Aires, especially where I worked, no one spoke english and spoke Spanish really quick. It is definitely a challenge, but it forces you to really learn and speak the language. The people there are understanding and nice to foreigners as well. I worked every morning, weekdays. When I was not working, I explored Buenos Aires which is a very fun city and has a crazy nightlife. On the weekends/holidays I travelled Argentina.

This entire experience is a win/win. I gained valuable work experience in a hospital while learning another language, and also managed to travel and meet new friends from all over the world.