Most introspective period of my life! Past Review

By (Spelman College) - abroad from 08/24/2018 to 12/05/2018 with

SIT Study Abroad: South Africa - Multiculturalism and Human Rights

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I became more assertive and grounded in my abilities and intuition. I learned how healthy friendships and networking is to be maintained and what it take to make them flourish and long lasting.

Review Photos

SIT Study Abroad: South Africa - Multiculturalism and Human Rights Photo SIT Study Abroad: South Africa - Multiculturalism and Human Rights Photo SIT Study Abroad: South Africa - Multiculturalism and Human Rights Photo SIT Study Abroad: South Africa - Multiculturalism and Human Rights Photo

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Probably the best people to be in charge of such sensitive topics.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Love staying in hostels and all of my homestays

* Food:

All the food is amazing! Veggie options galore as well!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Taking public transportation and building relationships with waitresses and other employees at local cafes was my best experience.

* 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

The program was everything I anticipated and wanted to learn about for my career aspirations.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? About $30-50
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Make sure to budget wisely, especially for the November month when you make personal living arrangements.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? 1 year of French
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Try to only speak the native language in your homestays and when around the city

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • Other
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
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?
  • My advisors
  • The films/documentaries
* What could be improved?
  • More emphasis on the contribution of women during Apartheid and currently.
  • Mental Health alternatives other than being in groups
  • More involvement with group dynamics
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew to journal more than take pictures.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.