Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Creating a Home away from Home Past Review

By (Villanova University) - abroad from 01/23/2016 to 06/11/2016 with

IES Abroad: Cape Town - University of Cape Town

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Studying abroad in Cape Town was probably the best decision I have ever made. The people, the natural beauty, the constant sense of adventure, the history, etc. completely enveloped me and stole my heart. Through my program and classes at the University of Cape Town, I learned about the cultural context of South Africa and how it affects those who live there. Through personal relationships with locals, I was able to feel like I was truly immersed in the culture. I also learned a lot about myself and what I am capable of. I miss Cape Town every single day and I can't wait to return someday.

Review Photos

IES Abroad: Cape Town - University of Cape Town Photo IES Abroad: Cape Town - University of Cape Town Photo IES Abroad: Cape Town - University of Cape Town Photo

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* 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:

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)

Currently, the exchange rate is pretty good for Americans in South Africa, so things are typically not expensive.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
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?
  • The support of the staff
  • The field trips they planned
  • The orientation to Cape Town
* What could be improved?
  • Informing us more about housing options before signing up
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I didn't waste energy being anxious/nervous before going to Cape Town because this program offered so much support the whole time we were there and allowed me to form lifelong friendships!

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 Avid Adventurer
The wardrobe you packed was better suited for a semester of camping than club hopping. Outdoorsy, you might forgo a crazy night out for an early all-day adventure. You'd rather take in the rich culture of an old town than the metropolis of a modern city, but for you getting off the grid is ideal.