Josh Hoeg

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Josh is a student entrepreneur studying Computer Science and Math at the University of Denver. He has worked in the music and tech industries trying to make a positive impact on the way business is done.

Why did you choose this program?

I choose VACorps because I was trying to get an internship in Cape Town, and out of the 100 companies I reached out to 15 got back to me and all 15 said that if I made it to Cape Town they would have coffee with me.

VACorps has the connections and was able to connect me with three companies all of which were interested in my help within two weeks. Without their vast connections, I wouldn't have been able to work in Cape Town.

What did your program provider assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

VACorps helped me find the perfect internship with a company that valued my help. They also helped me find housing and encouraged me to get into the South African culture by hosting weekly activities.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

I would highly recommend that you go to as many weekly activities as possible because that is what you are really paying for. I would also say that you get out of the internship what you put in.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

On an average week, I would spend the work week working 9-4 every day, except for Fridays where I would frequently go on the weekly activities with VACorps. These activities included hiking, wine tastings, and even sailing.

During the week I would occasionally go on a sunrise hike before work or even get out of work early to hit the beach if the weather permitted. On the weekends I would go to Old Biscuit Mill on Saturday, and go to beaches, hike, or hang out by the pool during the day. At night I would eat dinner with friends or go to bars in downtown Cape Town.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

My greatest fear was uncertainty. I had never been outside the U.S. before and I had never been in Africa. I did not have a lot of expectations about what South Africa would be like and I think going in with an open mind helped me feel more at home quicker.

What is the food like in Cape Town?

Animals, and wine. Lots and lots of animals, my favorite was the Ostrich, Springbok, and Sushi. Wine is also a staple part of South Africa and I highly recommend going on at least one wine tasting.