Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

You must experience beautiful South Africa! Past Review

By (Syracuse University) - abroad from 05/25/2019 to 05/31/2019 with

Study Abroad Programs in South Africa

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
One of the most moving experiences of my young adulthood. Having the opportunity to come to Makhanda and be on such sacred land, interact with the students, and experience life like this... I will never be same.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

One of the most moving experiences of my young adulthood. Having the opportunity to come to Makhanda and be on such sacred land, interact with the students, and experience life like this... I will never be same.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? Approx $150-200 per week (but could live comfortably under $150)
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Make a budget and stick to it - calculate how much money you can save per week or month from now until you trip. Open a savings account that is not linked to your main debit card.. it helps!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

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

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? N/A
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Don't be afraid to ask the guides and program admins questions on pronunciation and words. They will be happy to help you understand the language better!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Range of organized activities
  • Language lessons
* What could be improved?
  • More time
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Your mindset will never be same, be prepared for an overwhelming experience.