South Africa Transformed Me Past Review
By Kamilah W (Peace And Justice Studies, Wellesley College) for
CIEE: Cape Town - Arts and Sciences
I learned to complain less and take advantage of my education. My ideas about South Africa were challenged in several ways and I grew a lot because I made every effort to immerse myself in the local culture(s). My time there has heightened my desire to ensure that everyone has access to an excellent education as a way to reverse the detrimental impacts of racism.
Personal Information
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 6 months+ |
Review Your Program
* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The workload was manageable, the teaching methods were not preferable, and the grading system was very different from what I am used to. I had no difficulty in any of my courses. |
* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
At times there were several communication issues between administration and students but overall, I really appreciate everything that the staff did for me. |
* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Aesthetics and facilities within the dorm were not so great. My bathroom had mold all over the walls, the facilities were just sub-par and I don't think that anyone- American or local should have to settle for those facilities. I made due with my living situation and pretty early on it did not bother me as much. I think this was helped by the strong sense of community within the dorm and the many friends that I made, especially with local students. If I were to do it again I would still choose the dorm, but I think that several renovations are necessary. The dorm had a convenient school shuttle stop and it was easy to get into the city throughout the day. I brought my own cookware and bedding with me. |
* Food: |
I cooked my own food. |
* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I did several homestays in rural villages and townships with different cultural groups. I also attended several discussion forums related to racism and empowerment post Apartheid and learned a lot from my conversations with local friends. My program did an excellent job of planning excursions for us. |
* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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* Safety: |
I didn't feel unsafe, but knew many people who did. I took the necessary measures to not draw attention to myself. I had no health related incidents. HIV/AIDs is rampant in South Africa. |
If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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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) |
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Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Budget your money wisely for food and fun activities. Several people ran out of money from reckless drinking before the program ended. |
Language
How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | None |
Other Program Information
* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you take classes with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Students who are open-minded and not high maintenance would benefit most from this program. Take advantage of all that the local students and local culture have to offer and place yourself in a position of constantly learning. Go outside of your comfort zone and explore outside of the city. The wealth of my experience was within the people I interacted with. |