Felt Like I'd Lived There My Whole Life June 22, 2022

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Amazing experience! Academics were very field-based and afforded a great school-life balance- most school days involved visiting sites/organizations around Durban or hosting guest speakers. Assignments were straightforward, and the academic staff took the time to address us individually.

On-site administration of your program

Staff were very invested in our safety, learning, and enjoyment. They took the time to cultivate relationships with each student, and had the answer to any and all questions we had. They were able to provide us with an amazing, immersive experience even within the context of COVID-19.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Living arrangements consisted of three host families (two in Durban suburbs and one in rural area), as well as a beachfront apartment shared with other students. Host families were experienced and generous. Only issue would be the proximity of host family houses to the rest of the city- attractions were not within walking distance and we had to rely on uber.

Most food places are either hamburgers/fries or Indian dishes (roti, curry, etc.). Not too many healthy options, especially if you have any allergy restrictions. Would definitely advise grocery shopping while living in apartments.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

SIT's greatest strength is cultural immersion! The program took us all throughout Durban and the surrounding KZN province, as well as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Mozambique. Outside of the classroom, I interned with a local radio station and played on a rugby team. South Africans are very friendly people, and I definitely felt like a local in no time.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Healthcare is both public and private and very accessible in Durban. I had an allergic reaction that required a trip to the emergency room, and thankfully the experience was handled very easily. Healthcare quality was excellent and SIT handled all the insurance.

South Africa is not a safe country by any means, and Durban is no exception. However, the program did an excellent job of ensuring our safety, placing us with responsible host families and transporting us around the city. Be street smart and aware of your surroundings at all times (walk in groups, don't use headphones or look at your phone in public, etc.) and you will be fine. I did not feel threatened at all during my time there.

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

Prices in South Africa were very cheap, and I was easily able to live on a student's budget. Program stipend covered housing and food, and I was able to use leftover money for fun activities/adventures.

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

Though Zulu is the most common language in South Africa, English is the language of commerce and spoken by nearly everyone. That said, we were encouraged to use Zulu by the program, but it was never needed to get by. We did have an introductory Zulu class, but this only lasted about three weeks. Zulu was practiced significantly during our rural homestay, which lasted about a week.

Select all that apply

• Host Family
• Apartment

Select all that apply

• Americans
• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Americans

• Interacting with Locals
• Enjoying Nature and Scenery
• Staff Invested in Us

• Ensuring Internet Access for homework
• Longer Mozambique Excursion
• Timing of Academic Assignments

The Nearly Native or Trail Blazer