Incredible experience in CPT SA! Wouldn't change it for the world Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

It was a very independent 5 and a half months. On one hand, the work load was a lot less intense than I was expecting, but the difference in grading and in the overall system made up for that, and made school a bit more difficult in some aspects. One thing i noteced is that classes seemed to be more self taught. You chose whether you wanted to go to class or not, attendance was not taken in any of my classes. The class sizes were large (150-300), and thus it was difficult bonding with teachers as I do at my home Universit, the connection was not there, which I did not expect, but learned to adjust to. In terms of the grading system, the final exam was worth 50% of your overall class grade, thus it is crucial to know ALL information and to make sure you know the material even if you did not go to class. At my home University class participation and various class works throughout the course go into the final grade, this was not the case in Cape Town. It was definitely a change and I am not sure I was expecting that upon arrival.

On-site administration of your program

The campus is very large and many students needs need to be met. However, from the very get go, the application process was much more timely than I had expected. I did not know about registration for classes until the last minute and most handbooks online were out of date and not helpful because of this. Overall, I was not too impressed with the on campus staff. However, through my study abroad office, It was suggested that I register with a woman independent from the Universtiy who made the trip in CPT for me. She was so helpful and was planned trips and excursions for her students. She had us over for tea and had a very good understanding of how the university worked, thus it was great to have her for any questions.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We lived on Main Road about 5 minutes walk from capus. It was a busy neighborhood, but very central and made shopping, eating and getting to school very easy. Luckily, we did not need to buy very much for the house in order live comfortably, most everything was there when we moved in. In terms of safety, the property had wire and spikes, locks on every door and bars, however, our house was one of several study abroad houses to be broken into while we were there. Luckily, our house was less than 3 short blocks to the police station. In terms of night life, we were a good 20 monite taxi to downtown, which is where a lot of night life occured, however we were also able to go 10 minutes in the opposite direction by mini bus and be at another central location for night life.

IT was so great! Amazing fruits, and indian food! Ethiopian food became my favorite. There is a great variety in CPT.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Two Way Travel is on campus and offers AMAZING programs and trips for students to go on. This company really made my trip to Africa memorable. I suggest using them, they are well worth the money and the staff is just great. The two Oceans acquarium is also great, all of the hiking was amazing, great beaches, food, exploring new places, people, and the many talented musicians! Going to Zula Bar on Long Street and listening to live music was one of my favorite ways to spend Tuesday/Thursday evenings.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I would say that I was always on guard in CPT. I began to feel adjusted towards the end of my program, but many Americans that I met throughout the program lost many valuables throught the semester. I was by no means anxious or scared every day for 5 months, I was just aware of my surroundings. The campus hospital was right around the corner from the house and so that was easily accesible to students. I thankfully, did not need to use the health care system in CPT, so I cannot accurate compare the two systems. There was a very known and word was spread all throughout the community about AIDS/HIV, there was regular free testing on campus for students who wanted to know their status.

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

Select all that apply

• Apartment

Select all that apply

• International Students