My time in IES Cape Town! September 19, 2024

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I appreciated the unique hands-on style of IES’s learning curriculum. Although lectures were held at the center, we also had course-related trips connected to the concepts we learned in class. The courses that I took deepened my understanding of community and public health by examining these topics through the unique socio-economic and historical context of South Africa. The courses were mostly reading and essays heavy and very doable if you can be accountable with your time management. I think it is important to balance exploring the city and also finishing your work. Don’t allocate all your time doing coursework because it is just as important to explore Cape Town. However, it is just as important to allocate enough time to finish up your assignments.

On-site administration of your program

The IES Cape Town team and administration were the best. They are always there to support you when needed and actively engage with you to see how you are adjusting to the study abroad experience.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was very satisfied with my living arrangements. We lived in CampusKey accommodation where I had my own room, kitchen, and bathroom. We had load shedding but I believe it is part of the experience of living abroad in Cape Town.

There is a wide range of food options in Cape Town and very cheap compared to prices in the US. Meals are not provided by the IES center, so you must be accountable for your own food. The dorm building was also in a good location where there were grocery stores and several restaurants. However, I struggled a bit with making my own food because I was used to getting dining hall food back in

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt pretty integrated with the local culture. The HCD program is different in a way that you take courses at the center with other abroad students. Therefore, compared to the students who took classes at the University of Cape Town, I did have fewer interactions with local students. However, I made an effort to make more local friends by exploring the city and joining clubs at the university. I was really grateful for being able to still participate in University activities despite not taking classes at UCT. IES also did a great job in allowing us to interact and integrate into the local community and culture through the many trips and course-related activities.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Although I didn’t have any health issues, I knew a few people who had some time adjusting to the food in Cape Town. They were able to communicate with the IES Cape Town team and they guided them in getting appointments with doctors and health care.

There are several precautions that students must take during their time in South Africa. Most of the petty theft here is very opportunistic. Things like always keeping your phone in your bag, not walking alone at night, and being aware of your surroundings are my main advice. The IES team also repeatedly goes over these guidelines and I urge you to follow them throughout your time at Cape Town. Although I believe South Africa is one of the most beautiful places in the world, I acknowledge that the rate of crime is exponentially higher here compared to the US. This is also related to us being study abroad students and not local.

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

Select all that apply

• Dorm

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

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• Americans

• The people
• The natural beauty
• Learning

• some organization for trips
• n/a
• n/a

The Academic or Linguist