Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Workload was manageable, teaching methods and grading system were a bit different than in the American educational system. Larger classes, centered around lecturing rather than discussion, and most emphasis placed on final exam.

On-site administration of your program

Interstudy was helpful not only with academic advising, but general advising. Anita and others in her office were helpful with course selection, adjusting to the academic workload, and was always there for advice whenever we needed it. Program size was small, so I had very close relationships with the leaders of my program. My expectations were exceeded.

Interstudy provided us with most of the essential items we needed to settle in. The dorms were very safe and close to campus.

As a vegetarian, the on-campus vendors provided a nice selection of different types of food.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The program arranged for us to go to St.Lucia, Mozambique, and Khosi Bay throughout the year. These trips were very well planned and gave us the opportunity to see different parts of Southern Africa. We also had one-day excursions and a final dinner each semester. Outside of Interstudy-planned trips, we had outings as a group together often.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Durban is very safe as long as you use common sense in going out during the day, and especially at night. There are clinics on campus that are accessible and if I ever had a health problem, Interstudy was the first to come see me to see what they could do to help.

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

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

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• Dorm

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• Americans
• International Students
• Local Students