AIFS Service Learning South Africa

This was my first time that I had ever gone abroad. So, like everyone else, I will say that it was the best experience I've ever had. AIFS did great with supplying you with whatever you needed. The support that they gave to the students was wonderful, and they were always there to answer any questions you might have. Stellenbosch is a BEAUTIFUL area. Everything that you could want is packed into once place. Great food, beautiful scenery, night-life, shopping, hiking, and of course, wine. The excursions and most of the weekend trips are included in your AIFS price, which I was grateful for, because I didn't have to make those plans on my own.

The Service Learning program was a great cultural experience. You learn things that will stay with you for longer than your program length. However, when I participated in this program it was a bit unorganized. We volunteered with an organization in a township in Stellenbosch, and communication between us and them was a challenge, because we didn't seem to be on the same page. I hope that AIFS has worked out a deal with a different organization so the students can get the most out of their program, and so they can participate in community engagement that involves learning on both sides.

Bring nice clothes for going out, but also bring clothes to go hiking in, because you don't want to miss out on seeing the views from above. The people are amazing, the culture is exquisite and colorful, and the history is rich. South Africa has a special place in my heart, and AIFS was a great choice for my first adventure abroad.