Every time I talk about my experience I always tell people they should do a CCS program. I tell them it was the best experience of my life and that, no matter how much I try, they will not know how great it was unless they do it themselves.
Lysette Perez, Intern Abroad, Costa Rica – Education
I am going to go to law school, and this experience has broadened my mind in dealing with women's issues and confirmed my wish to work in the international sphere. Also, I am of Indian origin, so it gave me a different perspective on my culture. I learned about things that weren't discussed at home; it added another layer to what I look at.
I think my placement and situation was perfect - I did case studies, volunteer work, and research. It was a great combination.
Khiran Sidhu, Intern Abroad, India - Social Services
I had a wonderful experience. Working with the children was amazing – I felt like I had a real impact on their lives and I grew as a person. It was very difficult to leave because I developed relationships with the kids. In a sense I was almost like a foster parent to them for five weeks.
Andrew Navratil, Intern Abroad, Russia - Social Services
I initially requested my internship to focus on religion and Indian philosophy; however, as I saw the range of organizations that CCS collaborated with, my interests began to shift and I wanted to spend my time learning and experiencing as many NGOs as possible. Fortunately, I was able to incorporate this as well as religious programs into my schedule. I spent time at multiple temples, mosques, and even visited a Sikh gurdwara. I inquired about the religious beliefs and traditions of many staff members, and had an interview with a Hindu Brahmin. I also observed and found opportunities to speak with various organizations.
Lindsay Reopelle, Intern Abroad, India – Social Services
I loved being with the kids, making them smile, making them laugh, as well as being able to see when I had actually taught them something. I also connected with some of the mothers of the children, who had me over for lunch, and voiced on several occasions that they really approved of the way my partner and I taught. That made me feel really good, and that I was giving them what they wanted for their children (and not imposing my views and values on them). I also enjoyed planning new, interesting and creative activities for the daycare, especially when they worked. I feel that I learned a lot about teaching young children.
Amy Steele, Intern Abroad, India – Social Services
I went with the purpose of learning about adolescents and their problems, and I learned a lot. Doing the internship gave me more of what I needed -- more research opportunities and the ability to get involved in the community.
Emilie Reed, Intern Abroad, Tanzania – Social Services
My overall experience was much more than what I had expected. I made life-long friends. I developed skills, which I never thought I could develop in such a short period of time. I reached all my goals and surpassed them. My experience is one that I would never trade in for any other. I had the most wonderful time down in Costa Rica.
Coming in as an Intern, I wanted to develop my leadership skills, but challenge myself to teach in a foreign country. Also, to learn how to accomplish what would be simple tasks, but with a language barrier. By the end, my Spanish drastically improved, and I have gained a great confidence within myself and a deep respect for teachers.
Tara Badali, Intern Abroad, Costa Rica – Education
This experience was life changing and something that I will carry with my every day. It opened the door to public health and made me realize that I have so many options for my post-graduate studies. I was limiting myself.
Stephanie Wrona, Intern Abroad, Peru - Health
