Learning that the world is more than just a history book chapter Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I thought that the classes were not very challenging at the University of Botswana. While I learned a lot during my semester abroad, much of this knowledge was acquired during CIEE experiences, such as clinic rotations, rather than classes at the university.

On-site administration of your program

The CIEE administration was amazing. Base and the student volunteers were extremely kind and helpful. They made my time abroad an amazing experience.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I had a wonderful roommate and had a clean place to live. My only complaint is that my wifi ethernet port did not work for most of the time I was in Botswana, which made it difficult because access to wifi was limited at the University and in the country.

There were two cafeterias that were available, but both lacked nutritious options. There were not plenty of great food options around the city of Gaborone

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Due to the setup of the CIEE program, a lot of the time is spent with other CIEE students; however, there are many opportunities to get to know your local classmates and experience the local culture.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Healthcare in Botswana does not meet the same standard as healthcare in the United States in terms of resources, equipment, and knowledgeable medical staff; however, healthcare is free and is accessible to those who have time to wait. While HIV/AIDS is still a main issue, malaria is only prevalent in certain parts in northern Botswana. Malaria pills are only needed if the student goes to these parts.

Gaborone is like all busy cities everywhere in the world. Pick pocketing is an issue to be aware of, but if you are smart, you will not encounter any trouble. It would be wise to not walk alone at night.

It was an amazing experience, and the CIEE administrators and volunteers made this program so much more powerful and enjoyable.

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

Food and all other living costs were very cheap.

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

We were taught Setswana as part of the program and were encouraged to use it; however, English is the national language so immersion into Setswana was not possible.

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• Dorm

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• International Students

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

• the people (student volunteers, roommate, etc.)
• my Ministry of Health Internship
• the clinic observations

• the wifi access (being able to connect to your family)

The Avid Adventurer