Internship abroad: My experience with the Heinz Reizen Foundation
By Chloë Habets – Nursing Student IG, VISTA College Maastricht
Are you a healthcare student looking for a unique opportunity?
Experience? In May and October 2024, I—Chloë, 17, a second-year Nursing IG level 3 student at VISTA College in Maastricht —was fortunate enough to participate in two care vacations with the Heinz Reizen Foundation. These special trips to Germany have shaped and enriched me as a future healthcare professional.
Bad Bevensen Care Holiday (May 2024): My first care internship experience
My first care trip was to Bad Bevensen. Exciting? Absolutely. But the tension immediately melted away with the warm welcome from the team of volunteers and the guests. The atmosphere was open, familiar, and very personal.
What made this internship so special was the way they provided care: without the pressure of work and with genuine attention to the person behind the care needs. Small gestures made a world of difference, and the gratitude of the guests was indescribable. This experience showed me the value of truly connecting.
Second care journey – Rheinsberg (October 2024): growing in care and self-confidence
In October, I was invited back, this time to Rheinsberg. Thanks to my previous experience, I felt more confident. The week was once again all about loving care, relaxation, humor, and connection.
What struck me was the professional guidance. Learning objectives were addressed, and I received valuable feedback. I felt truly valued as an intern. Moreover, the outings and activities were meticulously organized. A great balance between learning and having fun!
What I learned as a healthcare intern
What both care holidays with Stichting Heinz Reizen taught me:
- Personal attention is the core of good care
- Self-confidence grows through doing and experiencing
- Working with volunteers and healthcare professionals is extremely educational
- Flexibility and creativity are essential in healthcare
The guests weren't seen as people with disabilities, but as individuals with stories, wishes, and needs. That human-centered perspective will stay with me forever.
Why I recommend a care holiday with Stichting Heinz Reizen
Are you hesitant about volunteering or interning during a care trip? Then I say: go for it! You'll get:
- Practical experience in a relaxed, international environment
- Opportunity to build close bonds with guests and colleagues
- Guidance focused on your learning goals
- Unforgettable memories and personal growth
As a student at VISTA College Maastricht, I can honestly say: a care holiday through the Heinz Reizen Foundation is much more than an internship – it is a life-enriching experience.
Thanks to the Heinz Reizen Foundation
My thanks go to the entire team at the Heinz Reizen Foundation, and especially to Heinz himself. What you've built is so valuable. Thanks to you, we as students were able to learn and enjoy ourselves, while our guests enjoyed a loving, carefree holiday. Thank you!
Also interested in a healthcare internship or volunteer work?
Are you a healthcare student or volunteer interested in joining a healthcare holiday with the Heinz Reizen Foundation? Explore the options on our website and register. Together, we make holidays possible for people who need them most.
