Transforming & Becoming Globally Connected In South Africa! Past Review

By (Political science, Hampton University) for

CIEE: Cape Town - Summer Community Development and Social Justice: Theory + Practice

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Absolutely! From taking the course, Transformation in South Africa: Beyond the Rainbow Nation, I learned a range of academic, intellectual, and intercultural experiences that enable me to witness and take part in the complex process of the transformation in South Africa. Through the innovative course, a volunteer project, and exploration of the various communities in and around Cape Town, I became a participants in, rather than a mere observers of, the dynamic environment of Cape Town, South Africa. Additionally, I gained a comprehensive understanding of the evolving story that is South Africa. I learned firsthand about the country, its people, and the transformations that have occurred over the past 15 years in South African society. As stated before, the course included a community-based volunteer component. This component was with Ubuntu Africa, located in Khayelitsha, which helped me to better understand South African history, politics, educational challenges, and societal values and traditions. At Ubuntu Africa, I worked with HIV positive children, and served as a mentor, and activity counselor. Its mission is dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of HIV-positive children in under-served communities by establishing community-based programs that provide lifesaving health and support services. Ubuntu Africa is also committed to fostering an empowered attitude towards HIV/AIDS among young people worldwide and engaging them to participate in improving conditions for people affected by global health challenges. Let it also be noted that the word "UBUNTU" is an African philosophy based on the connection of all human beings. “I am because we are” is a phrase that is commonly associated with the philosophy, and Ubuntu is based on mutual support and sharing what you can to help others.

Review Photos

CIEE: Cape Town - Summer South African Studies Photo CIEE: Cape Town - Summer South African Studies Photo CIEE: Cape Town - Summer South African Studies Photo CIEE: Cape Town - Summer South African Studies Photo

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload, grading system, and teachings methods is very straight forward. I did not feel or see any difference in the educational system between my host university and the American educational system.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The programs allows for you to see things in a new perspective. It certainly strenghtens your capabilities! The support system of CIEE is incredibly, they are readily available to assist in any way. There was never a time where I felt I missed out on information. The administration is VERY informative.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I did not have to buy anything, everything was provided. For the most part, I stayed in a house with my program colleagues.

* Food:

I did not have any accommodation of any dietary restrictions. There was a plethora of places to eat. I found that all the restaurants taste delicious!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I thoroughly enjoyed going to Robben Island, and learning more about Nelson Mandela, and other political activists. I also enjoyed the homestray visit in Bo-Kaap, it truly has opened up my eyes to the Muslim culture, and disenfranchised individuals.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

The safety of where I was located is impeccable. The security guards on the corner of the streets made me feel that I was protected from any wrong doing. Not to mention, I never travelled alone.

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)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The course
  • The Homestay
  • The Field Trips
* What could be improved?
  • No Comment
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? My advice to anyone is to take heed to all opportunities that life have to offer. Do not let them pass you because you simply have one life to live. Furthermore, I encourage everyone to consider participating in the CIEE South African Summer Studies Program, especially since the world is gearing towards becoming globally connected. This experience is certainly enriching. I always dreamed to be able to go to Africa. Thus, having the chance to study abroad in South Africa made the experience more significant and exciting! I would also like to give the advice that do not turn down study abroad based on the cost. For me it was a blessing, and when I began my application process I had no idea, where I was going to get the money from. However, I kept the faith and was valient, which in the end, allowed for me to be able to see firsthand my dream of being able to go to Africa!