Past Review

By (Social Work., Valparaiso University) for

CGEE: Windhoek - Nation-Building, Globalization, and Decolonizing the Mind

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was amazing. It helped mold me into a better, more understanding, sympathetic person.

Personal Information

If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: Augsburg College
The term and year this program took place: Fall 2009

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The messages were strong, the things we learned were so heavy that they stuck in our minds, and will probably remain there for life.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

He didn't seem to be completely on top of it. He was a good guy, but he didn't always seem to have his stuff together.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We had 3 host families. For the majority of the time we all lived in a house together. <br /><br /> I loved 5 Simpson! It was a great house.

* Food:

Our cooks rocked!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

It rocked my world.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Ultimately we had to watch out for our safety, we couldn't rely on others to continuously watch our backs. We did watch out for each other though. Students health needs were addressed how students wanted them to be addressed.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? In general you'd want between 1500 and $2000. The exchange rate is in your favor, but there are several amazing souvenirs, along with snacks you'll love and goodies like that. Not to mention when you travel and do things on your own. Like a week of break, you need money for that!
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Renting car possibility. Medical if need be.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
Language acquisition improvement?

Well, we learned Damara when we were there, we didn't have to take it beforehand. We learned Damara while we were there, and then we stayed with a Damara speaking family out in the rural.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Do it. If I could do it you can do it.