South Africa: Community Health & Social Policy

I enjoyed studying abroad with SIT in Durban, South Africa! I liked the mix of coursework that we had that revolved the Social Determinants of Health and Approaches to Community Health in South Africa -- I found the coursework to be easier than a typical course load at my home college. We also went on many excursions to local NGOs like Blue Roof, AFRA, SDCEA, etc. and local community health centers. I also enjoyed the homestay component -- the homestay communities were so wonderful and welcoming!

I think there could have been a better balance of our day to day schedule because somedays were a bit lecture heavy, but I really enjoyed the overall study abroad experience!

I had an amazing experience through this program. A highlight was the homestay. I bonded with the local families, learned so much about the culture, and got to practice isiZulu. I also enjoyed the immersive nature of the classes. In addition to lectures, classes include excursions for firsthand experience. SIT offers an amazing opportunity to gain knowledge about global public health with a hands on experience. Overall, this program offered a fascinating and fun learning experience both inside and outside the classroom.

This program is for people who want to get out of this comfort zone and truly learn about and live like the Zulu people of South Africa right outside of Durban. This is not a program for people who want to go abroad as a vacation, but who want to change their perspective on the world by learning about and engaging with a totally new culture! this program definitely changed my future path in life. South Africa is one of the most unequal countries in the world and you get to experience first-hand the inequalities when you are living in the black township Cato Manor right next to large informal settlements (shacks) and a large fancy mall with designer stores. This program also allows you to learn first hand about community health issues through visits to schools, hospitals, community health clinics and more. My favorite part of the program was the independent study period during which I was able to live and volunteer at an orphanage and observe the occupational therapy services provided to the children created a system of inclusive education. That was definitely an experience I could never easily have again.

My experience with SIT is invaluable to me! The semester was full of interesting studies, diverse excursions, and unforgettable memories. I interned with an organization that provided social services to refugees in Downtown Durban and met some of my dearest friends from living in our homestays. Overall, I would describe the semester in three words - Challenging, Encouraging, and Exciting.

SIT South Africa Community Health program is an incredible and unique way to experience a new country without just being a "tourist". Throughout my semester, SIT challenged me to understand the issues facing SA from a structural viewpoint, instead of as an outsider. I wish I could go back!

SIT is an excellent study abroad program, and the program in Durban is no different! Offers a great homestay program, interesting excursions, and the opportunity to do field work and research.