Study abroad at University of Cape Town Past Review
By Becca C (Government and Politics, Sociology, University of Maryland - College Park) for
CIEE: Cape Town - Arts and Sciences
Absolutely. CIEE provided a bunch of cultural excursions to help us better understand the region and it's issues. I volunteered in two different places and was able to learn about the community from that perspective. The people on the program, as well as the local UCT students who lived with us were all incredibly open minded and fun, greatly enhancing my experience. I would recommend Cape Town to anyone who wants a different, adventurous, interesting and beautiful experience.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 6 months+ |
| The term and year this program took place: | Spring 2009 |
Review Your Program
|
* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
Classes were not nearly as stimulating or challenging as they are in the States, but there was new and interesting subject matter. |
|
* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
They provided support when we had problems but were at times overbearing and treated us like kids. |
|
* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I lived in a house with 19 other students, 17 American and 2 students at University of Cape Town (who were from Kenya and Botswana). I had my own room and shared a bathroom with one other person. There was plenty of personal and communal space, as well as a yard and porch to spend time outside. It was perfect! |
| * Food: |
We bought and cooked our own food, everything there is cheap and delicious! |
|
* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I met many unique people and had a great time. |
|
* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
|
| * Safety: |
When I was sick the health center gave me appropriate medicines to get better. In terms of safety, we had a guard and a gate at our house. However, by nature Cape Town is not the safest city so I was nervous at times. |
| 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
| Language acquisition improvement? |
English is a national language. |
Other Program Information
|
* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
|
|
* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
|
A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Take advantage of every opportunity, travel as much as you can, and definitely take advantage of the volunteer opportunities presented—- they're great ways to interact with the local population. |
