The Breathtaking South Africa Past Review
By Jessica Guzman (Cristo Rey Jesuit High School) - abroad from 06/30/2019 to 08/02/2019 with
The Experiment: South Africa: Leadership & Social Change
I came back with more confidence and I was able to grow as a person. I learned to be the best version of myself and also how to be more loving to others. Along with having more patience.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | None |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
I was able to learn about the history of South Africa and also experience it myself in the homestay. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
My Host family was so loving and supportive, along with the rest of the community. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
The housing was nice and cozy |
| * Food: |
Similar yet different than you're probably used to but delicious |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
It was different but everyone was very accepting of your own beliefs. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
I didn't need to prepare before going, didn't need any shots or to take medication. When we did get sick we all took care of ourselves. |
| * Safety: |
Just like every place, it can be unsafe at times but the program makes sure nothing happens while on the trip. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
When I first arrived in South Africa I was terrified, but soon after I felt welcomed with open arms. I learned so much about the history of South Africa and learned how to appreciate everything that we have. I was able to build long loving friendships and make so many memories with amazing people. This trip was so enjoyable yet education. There were so many breathtaking views. The homestay was one of the best experience I had, it was the highlight of my trip. Getting to know and be apart of a Xhosa speaking family was an experience that words cannot describe. The activities were so amazing, the safari, zip gliding, and the boat rides. I was able to gain more confidence and love from myself and others on this trip. |
Finances
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* 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) |
The most that I spent on was for my own snacks and for gifts, everything else was taken care of from the program itself. |
| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | None |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Buy gifts in the lesser tourist places, the prices are much lower. |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
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How much did the program encourage you to use the language?
0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language |
It was encouraged for the homestay but even than our families also spoke English so it was not used as much as we thought. |
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Beginner |
| 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? | None |
| 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? | Use it with your friends. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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| 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? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | To not walk in with expectations because you won't want to be disappointed because everything is an amazing experience. |
Reasons For Studying Abroad
| To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you. |
The NetworkerAn active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume. |
