What inspired you to go abroad?
I got inspired to go abroad because I wanted to expand my worldview and I am deeply interested in seeing the politics/international relations of a country other than my own (the United States). I knew I always wanted to learn about another country, but I wanted to actually visit there to authentically learn about the country, rather than have American media teach me. I also got inspired because I want to prove to my community that studying abroad is an option, and that if you work hard then doors will open.
Santa Monica Pier in California
Why did you choose Experiment in International Living's Leadership Institute to South Africa?
I chose the Experiment in International Living's Leadership Institute to South Africa because I've heard many things about its history that is very comparable to the United States. Apartheid was also fairly recent in that country, so I knew that I wanted to learn more about it since many people who lived during the Apartheid era are still living. I chose EIL because of their commitment to experiential learning which is different from the traditional class setting. I also chose EIL because of their mission to immerse us in the culture. EIL has facilitated a newfound love I have for South Africa!
What was your favorite part about South Africa?
My favorite part (which honestly is everything) part about South Africa was the rural homestay. I like this experience the most because it was the moment that made me realize that I had MUCH MORE privilege than what I previously thought I had before the trip. Many people from the household asked me "if it is easy to get a job in the United States" because they wanted to find a job. After answering their questions and going into deep conversations, I realized how lucky I am to be a citizen of the United States. Many other people look up to us and, as the son of immigrants, I have an even more respect for people who migrate from one place to another in search of a more secure future.
What made your experience abroad unique?
What made my experience unique was the amazing people I was with! My group was very diverse and that gave way for many interesting stories to be brought to the table. We had many very intellectual discussions in which we all agreed that in the end it is freedom and human rights that shall prevail!
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
They helped a lot! They gave us our weekly schedules. They gave us briefing on South Africa's current state and history, and they fantastically coordinated our homestays!
Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?
I wish I could have been more confident in myself from the beginning. In the beginning I was intimidated and I thought that I knew less than my peers about peace, politics, and human rights. I gradually started to voice out more and I became comfortable doing so!
Describe a typical day in the life of your program.
This would vary a lot but typically I would wake up and go to an excursion (to the South African SIT office, correction facility, museum, gallery, lecture, meet someone influential, etc), eat lunch, go to another excursion, have dinner, and go to sleep.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoyed looking at the views and having time to talk with my friends. Interaction is very important to me and I like (LOVE) to be around people.
National Mall in Washington, D.C.
What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?
The accommodation varied: it was either game lounges, hotels (one was by the beach), rural homestay, or urban homestay. I liked the large variety of accommodation types. It gave me time to reflect on the disparaging inequality that occurred in South Africa.
What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?
This is a program that you should apply to only if you are passionate about peace, politics, and human rights, and/or creating change in your community. If you are looking for "just another impressive activity to put in your resume", then this is NOT for you.
Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?
It has made me become more aware of the prevailing issues of economic inequality, racism, political oppression, American interventionism, post colonial problems, etc. in both the world and in the United States .
Would you recommend EIL to others? Why?
YES ! I would highly recommend this program and provider to others because this program bring out the passion for social justice and leadership. The people, history, and culture in South Africa is very interesting and the Experiment in International Living will do well in ensuring you will be with an AMAZING group.
