Studying in Stellenbosch and experiencing the Western Cape was one of the biggest blessings that could have ever happened to me! Arriving in Stellenbosch, I was immediately greeted by a wonderful staff and was able to meet many other international students. The housing was amazing and the tenants were so welcoming. The university was absolutely beautiful. Within the first week of school, there was a club fair where you can join endless clubs and groups. There are clubs for wine enthusiasts, divers, surfing, community engagement, photography and even beer lovers. The international student office throw an array of events throughout the year that really help you meet new people and experience the university lifestyle in Stellenbosch. Living in South Africa, there is so much to experience. Whether it be from wine tasting, climbing lions head, having a braii with friends or visiting the Sunday markets, there is so much to enjoy! I have never met such amazing and kind people in my life. I was apart of the universities community engagement program, where weekly, students would help teach and interact with students at a nearby primary school. I think the children I was able to work with impacted my life more than I could imagine. As students, we were there to help contribute and help the school, however, having the chance to work with such amazing and lively spirits was an absolute privilege. Everywhere I visited I was greeted and welcomed and never felt out of place. I was able to travel all over South Africa with my amazing photography class; going shark cage diving, attending braiis in the townships, photographing table mountain and visiting signal hill at night. Traveling through the country is simple with easy access to car rentals and not to mention the very affordable flights. It’s amazing to one day be ina. Culturally rich city and the next li are exploring the wild in one of the national parks. The access to air bnb’s, hostels and backpackers are endless! All of the backpackers and places I visited were all very clean, fun and safe. If you have the chance to visit Losotho or Swaziland, I highly recommend looking into local music festivals. The people you will meet, will change your life. Go on as many hikes and day trips that you can. If you choose to study abroad in South Africa, be prepared to grow as person and have your mind full of new perspectives. You will meet so many people from around the world that will teach you something new about yourself. There is so much culture to appreciate and soak in while in South Africa and I would choose to go back in a heart beat.
What would you improve about this program?
While in South Africa, I found myself with a broken foot. Because it happened over a weekend, it was difficult to navigate which hospitals were best to go to. I ended up waiting until Monday when the international student office was open. The staff was wonderful and helped me with my insurance and hospital visits.
