Overview
A few semesters ago, I learned about the opportunity to study abroad. When I first heard of it, I ignored it but my cousin found a way to convince me to apply. I applied, brushed it to the side and saw that I was accepted into the program which I applied to and...well, the rest is history.
Being accepted into South Africa's program, more specifically, University of Cape Town (UCT) was one of the greatest moments in my life. It was amazing because UCT is the #1 university in Africa. Second, I was going to travel across the world by myself and live in a different place for the first time in my life. Last, I found out that what I was expecting from SA was nothing compared to what I experienced...it was so much better than I could have imagined.
South Africa's program is unique and something I would deem unforgettable. We received our own apartments, were in places where multiple languages were spoken every day, we were surrounded by mountains, the weather is the opposite of the US and the schooling is rigorous. However, the best part is everyone feels like family and that is what made this experience 10x better.
Signal Hill
Signal Hill is a spot that overlooks a large part of Cape Town and it is the most beautiful sight.
We were able to see the infamous "Robben Island" from Signal Hill and the watching the sun set from here was crazy.
Me and my friends came here a lot and enjoyed every single moment of peace and tranquility. We came here around the first 2 weeks we were in S.A.
The Food is...
The food is absolutely delicious! Being in South Africa, I was able to constantly experience eating what had just been freshly cooked.
I had food like lamb, ostrich, perri-perri chicken, pop, amagwinya, amakota, bunny chow, been and stew and some of the best Ethiopian food surprisingly.
My favorite thing about the food is the portions were perfect, the taste was out of this world and there were many spots where the people made sure everything was done to perfection.
Highlights
Mountain climbing
South Africa is surrounded by mountains and there are many spots to climb. This is a view from the middle of a mountain while it was closer to sunset.
S.A pride
Watching the S.A flag be waved with pride once the Springboks (rugby team) won was a sight to see. The entire city of Cape Town felt like a block party.
Overview of Cape Town!
Botanical Gardens
There's an attraction called Botanical Gardens and I have to be honest, I have never seen nature and wanted to tear up until I saw that. This was closer to the end of the stay when I cam here and I am so glad. "Save the best for last" is how I think about it.
Conclusion
South Africa was one of the most transformative experiences in my life. I started off with people from Loyola and ended off with "family" from Loyola. I started off not knowing anyone and planning to stay to myself. I ended off having been friends with many and family to some others. I learned so much about myself and realized I much rather would prefer to live in S.A than in the States but that is also because life is a little different for me then locals in S.A. All in all, I would encourage everyone to take at least one trip to S.A...won't regret it.
My personal faves
"South Africa feels like Home "- Michael smith
Credits:
Created with images by michaeljung - "african man waving a south african flag" • Daco - "Aerial view of Capetown, SOuth Africa"