My American Internship: Zandile M. of South Africa

Our "My American Internship" series features CIEE BridgeUSA participants who submitted entries to our photo essay contest. Zandile M. of South Africa worked as a hospitality intern at the Montage Deer Valley in Park City, Utah.

My CIEE BridgeUSA internship took me all the way from South Africa to the snowy mountains of Utah, where I spent an unforgettable year working at Montage Deer Valley, a luxury resort in Park City. What started as a professional internship in hospitality became one of the most enriching and inspiring chapters of my life.

At Montage Deer Valley, I worked across several departments and gained hands-on experience in a five-star hospitality environment. I learned the importance of teamwork, refined my customer service skills, and grew more confident in my abilities every day. The high expectations challenged me, but they also helped me evolve into a stronger and more capable professional.

Beyond work, I had the chance to explore other parts of the U.S. I traveled to New York City and Los Angeles, two iconic cities that had always been on my bucket list. Experiencing the fast-paced energy of Times Square and the laid-back vibes of the West Coast was unforgettable. These trips gave me a deeper appreciation for the diversity and scale of America.

What made my journey truly special were the people I met along the way: fellow interns, kind coworkers, and new friends from around the world. We shared meals, cultures, and moments that will stay with me forever.

Thanks to the CIEE BridgeUSA Intern program, I’ve returned home with valuable skills, unforgettable memories, and a clear vision for my future. I’m now working on launching a catering business that brings the same warmth and excellence I experienced in the U.S. back to my own community in South Africa. This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.