An Incredible Experience Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

UCT is definitely a rigorous institution, but once I adjusted to classes, I felt like it was about the same difficulty as the classes at my home school.

On-site administration of your program

The IES Cape Town staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, and they were always willing to listen if I needed to talk about something.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My living arrangements were pretty nice, as I had a single room within a flat I shared with three other students, but at times the flat became quite cramped.

The food in Cape Town is absolutely amazing, whether you eat out or make your own food. Groceries are easily accessible, and the restaurants are amazing regardless of whether you eat in city center or across the street from your flat.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I made a few South African friends, but for the most part I stuck to my American friend group. This is one thing I would have done differently if I could do it again.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I actually ended up needing to go to the hospital because of a condition that existed prior to me starting the program, but I was surprised at how efficient and helpful the hospitals in South Africa are compared to in the US. The staff was friendly, even though it was midnight when I arrived, and I saw a doctor about half an hour later. In contrast to the US, I've waited hours to see a doctor and spent entire days in the ER, but in Cape Town I was in and out (and feeling better!) in about three hours.

Cape Town is not unsafe, as long as you're being aware. IES gave us several safety briefings that really hammered in the reality of petty theft. I was lucky enough to not have anything stolen from me, but there were other people on the program who left their belongings alone for two minutes and came back to find them gone. It really is up to you to watch your things.

IES Abroad and IES Cape Town made this program absolutely incredible--they helped with all the administrative stuff that would have made my head spin if I had to do it on my own, and they also planned activities that helped us bond as a group and broaden our understanding of South African history. IES created an amazing program, and I would absolutely do it again.

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

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• Apartment

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• Local Students
• Americans

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• Local Students
• Americans

• The IES Cape Town staff
• the field trips organized by IES Cape Town
• the friends I made through the program

• Less downtime between orientation and classes

The Avid Adventurer