Interstudy: Cape Town - University of Cape Town Photo

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A Study Abroad Program Review For

Interstudy: Cape Town - University of Cape Town

Program Information

The University of Cape Town (UCT) is South Africa’s oldest university and one of the continent’s leading teaching and research institutions. UCT has six faculties, over 60 departments and offers a full range of undergraduate and postgraduate study. The main teaching campus, known as the Upper Campus, is locate... More

Provider: Interstudy
Location(s): Cape Town, South Africa
Year Founded: 1980
Website Take me there!

Review By:

Claire A. (Nutrition & Dietetics, ) on September 07, 2010

Overall Rating

Review Photos

Interstudy: Cape Town - University of Cape Town Photo

Personal Information

* Start Date: 2009-01-16
* End Date: 2009-06-10
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The grading system and teaching methods were different than in the United States, but I felt that I got used to the differences and still had a good overall academic experience.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

Our apartment was spacious and nice overall, but we did have a bug problem that persisted even after our apartment was fumigated. Additionally, our apartments were in a rather sketchy area - I didn't feel unsafe, but some other students did. I felt that overall, the apartments we lived in were acceptable and comfortable.

* 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:

* Home Institution Advising:

How well did your university prepare and support you for your time abroad?

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)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* If you could do it all over again, would you choose the same program? Yes
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I think this program was extremely worthwhile and a great experience. There were minor bumps in the road, but that is to be expected of any time spent in another country. The staff was helpful, and the outings that Interstudy took us on were worthwhile. I absolutely loved Cape Town, and am so glad that I chose to spend five months there.
* What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile? YES - I learned so much about South Africa and its history, its present, and its racial and social issues. It is a fascinating, beautiful country filled with pleasant people. Studying abroad in South Africa caused me to go abroad again, to Uganda, after I graduated. I am so glad that I studied abroad!