Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Study Abroad in South Africa, Best Decision I Ever Made Past Review

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AIFS: Stellenbosch - Study Abroad or Service Learning at Stellenbosch University

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I honestly couldn't have asked for a better trip. I felt like a different person, for the better, coming home. I would go back in a heartbeat, that country and the people I met will always be with me.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Work load was similar, grading system was different but fair, teaching methods were similar, didn't take any main-stream classes so there was no language barrier.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Dont have one bad thing to say about this program, i absolutely loved it. The size of the program was perfect, you got to really bond with everyone you met. AIFS coordinator, Hestea De Wet, was absolutely amazing and so supportive.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

You will go out to dinner a lot, but the food is delicious!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

All trips provided by our program were amazing, there was a welcoming event where we got to meet so many new people and was lots of fun.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I never felt directly unsafe or threatened. Obviously South Africa has a high crime rate and you can't act stupid or do anything dangerous, but if you use common sense and act smart you will be completely fine.

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

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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Language acquisition improvement?

English was spoken everywhere, I took two language classes which was fun but you could definitely get by without it

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
  • Local Students

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Location
  • the people i met!
  • Hestea De Wet was beyond helpful
* What could be improved?
  • nothing!
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Enjoy every second, immerse yourself in the culture, meet as many locals as you can, and don't waste your weekends being hungover! Make the most of the time you have!