Health Sciences Study Abroad Programs in South Africa

Spending a semester in South Africa reshaped the way I see the world and the way I write about it. As a writing major and African and African American Studies minor, I took every history class I could fit into my schedule, learning about liberation movements, identity, and global interconnectedness right from the source. When I wasn’t in class, I was at the beach — literally every minute possible — journaling with my toes in the sand or doing yoga as the sun came up over the water. Spring break took me all the way to Tanzania, where new landscapes and new conversations stretched my perspective even further. I met people who became lifelong friends, the kind you still text years later because the bond formed abroad never really fades. More than anything, the experience gave me a deeper understanding of myself, my studies, and the world I want to help shape. Studying abroad didn’t just change my semester. It changed my life.

My time I spent in Stellenbosch and in South Africa at large, was unlike any study abroad experience that I have heard of in my time in college. The African safari and game drives, the beautiful landscapes of vast mountain ranges, long strands, which are all complemented by the vibrant culture, friendly strangers, and the best braai the world has to offer. I loved my time South Africa and I hope to visit Stellenbosch some day again.

Cape Town, South Africa is a stunning city. White sand beaches contrasted with tall mountains create an adventurers dream, and University of Cape Town's campus is the most beautiful I've seen. I wouldn't go anywhere else for my study abroad.

Going to South Africa through the AIFS program was the best decision I could of made. I created the best bonds with people and unforgettable memories. I will definitely be visiting South Africa again!

One of the greatest experiences I have ever had. Nothing like getting to live in a different country for 6 months and really immerse yourself in another country and culture. Being able to become close to others with no previous connection is truly something that you have to do!

I had a great time here. The housing was good, the excursions were fun and educational. The connections they had with local communities were great. I really feel that we were able to do some good. The one issue I had was that I did not like our two program coordinators, they were rude and unfair at times. I did not let them ruin my trip however!

Going abroad to Cape Town, South Africa with IES Abroad’s Health, Culture, and Development Program was truly one of the best decisions I ever made. Experiencing such a different atmosphere, a country so full of culture, religion, and history and a city with truly everything you could ask for. IES was extremely supportive and helpful in making all the students feel integrated and welcomed into Cape Town and the experience as a whole. The staff there are absolutely incredible and I formed such wonderful relationships with all of them that I still talk to them even months after being back! Going to South Africa is so vastly different from any education here in the US and it can be quite the adjustment. Having an open mind and a curiosity to learn as much as you can will serve you so well. From going to the beautiful white sand beaches after class, to hiking Lion's head at sunset, to going on a safari to Botswana and Zimbabwe for a school trip, to fully immersing myself in South Africa and the history, and the best part of it all, it making best friends and friendships that will last a lifetime. Cape Town and IES, I truly cannot thank you enough for this experience. I would go back in a heartbeat if I could.

The staff at the Cape Town branch of IES are fantastic, and the classes offered within the HCD program are diverse yet specific. They created a safe and comforting learning environment I had never experienced before, and I began loving school again. While some classes were a bit difficult, the office's teachers and academic advisors always looked out for the students. The city itself is beautiful with so many amazing sites to be seen. You cannot go wrong studying here.

I would recommend it to a friend. The staff took care of a lot of logistics. I like that we had excursions planned. And that the accomodations were very nice and up to my standards. I liked my internship placement as well. I had difficulty being placed but it worked out in the end.

Tremendous staff. Environment is like none other and they accommodate well. For Seville, the city has been tremendous and CIEE gives you a proper introduction to this magnificent city. Whether an intern or a student during one of the sessions, you can get along with everyone and overcome the anxieties of a new city

I would be very likely to recommend CIEE Study Abroad to a friend because this program gives you many opportunities to explore the city you are in as well as the surrounding areas. All of the employees are very kind people who will be their to uplift and support the students who are abroad.

I studied abroad in Stellenbosch South Africa Spring 2022. Stellenbosch has a college town feel with plenty to do and Cape Town is only 45 minutes away (and easy to get to). I met many friends who were either international students or South Africans students since the University does a great job of welcoming International Students. We spent our time wine tasting, exploring the region, and learning about South Africa. Hestea, the program director, is the woman I want to be when I grow up. She is an amazing, loving, wise human being who will help you along the way during your time abroad. She also gives the best advice. Studying abroad in Stellies contained the highest highs and the lowest lows of my life. This time shaped me into the human I am today, and I could not recommend it more.

AIFS Stellenbosch was the best experience of my life! Hestea, the program manager, was amazing and really made the process easy! I would recommend it to everyone. The school was amazing, great class options, the town of Stellenbosch is full of students with great food, hiking, wine farms, and night life. I also was able to travel more of South Africa on the free Garden Route AIFS provided and travel throughout Namibia and Mozambique after my classes ended!

Unbeknownst to me at the time, The path toward embracing the fullness of life began for me the very moment I eagerly clicked the "Apply Now" button on the American Institute for Foreign Exchange website. In that decisive moment, I embarked on what would undoubtedly become one of the most remarkable journeys of my life: the opportunity to study abroad in Stellenbosch, South Africa. This remarkable decision ignited a spark within me, filled with anticipation, curiosity, and a thirst for new experiences. It marked the beginning of an adventure that would open doors to personal growth, cultural immersion, and the discovery of a world far beyond my own. With each passing day, I grew more excited about the possibilities that awaited me in this enchanting land. Despite feeling out of my depth, I mustered the courage to embrace the challenge of Studying Abroad and embracing the richness of South African culture, academic pursuits, and the connections I would forge with fellow students from around the globe. Little did I know at the time that this act of courage would become the foundation for everything I would come to know, that it would become a feeling that deeply comforted me and that it would teach me the most fundamental lesson anyone can ever learn: that if we go into new experiences in life with as much excitement and enthusiasm as we can figure out, in the end, it is the only way we know that we have led a full life. It is through embracing the unknown with a sense of curiosity and eagerness that we can truly appreciate the depth and richness of our journey.This lesson marked the beginning of my journey towards wisdom. Little did I realize at that pivotal moment that my act of courage in taking that leap was the catalyst for an extraordinary transformation of consciousness. It marked the dawning of a profound renaissance within me—a renaissance that would awaken my deepest love, appreciation, and exhilaration for life itself, for thrilling adventures, and for the profound power of community. In essence, it was the inception of my personal quest to cultivate a life that truly embodies purpose, meaning, and fulfillment. With each passing day, as I ventured into uncharted territories, I felt a renewed zest for life coursing through my veins. The boundaries of my comfort zone rapidly expanded, allowing me to embrace novel experiences and welcome the unknown with open arms. As I delved into new cultures, engaged with diverse perspectives, and immersed myself in the vibrant tapestry of human connections, I felt a profound sense of interconnectedness and belonging. The world became my classroom, and every encounter, every shared moment, became a valuable lesson in empathy, compassion, and the beauty of our shared humanity. Through the challenges and triumphs, the laughter and tears of joy, I came to realize that life is not merely a series of passive moments, but an ever-evolving canvas waiting to be painted with our unique passions and purpose. This profound awakening ignited a fire within me, propelling me to seize every opportunity for growth, to savor each step of the journey, and to forge meaningful connections that would transcend time and distance. As I reflect upon that transformative decision, I am filled with an immense gratitude for the path I have chosen. It was the starting point of a journey that has taught me to embrace the full spectrum of human experience, to seek beauty in the ordinary, and to continuously seek ways to contribute to the world around me. It is a journey that has gifted me with invaluable memories, enduring friendships, and an unwavering commitment to live each day with passion, purpose, and a profound dedication to the cultivation of an extraordinary life. That simple act of courage, which ignited my journey in South Africa, has unfolded into an epic narrative of personal growth, self-discovery, and a bold pursuit of a life well-lived. It serves as a testament to the boundless potential that resides within each of us, waiting to be unleashed. It is a powerful reminder that every single moment holds the promise of transformative possibilities if we have the audacity to embrace them wholeheartedly. During my transformative time in South Africa, I was blessed with the presence of an extraordinary mentor, Hestea, a woman whom I deeply admire and look up to. Her impact on my life has been profound, shaping the very core of my being. Through her guidance, wisdom, and genuine care, she empowered me to reframe the way I inquire about the world and to immerse myself fully in its breathtaking beauty. Under Hestea's nurturing guidance, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and introspection. She taught me to ask probing questions, to challenge preconceived notions, and to embrace the complexities of life. Through her mentorship, I learned to approach the world with a curious mind, eager to explore its hidden depths and uncover its manifold wonders, and to live where my feet were. Hestea's influence went beyond intellectual growth; she fostered in me a deep appreciation for the power of connection and community. Through her example, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of genuine relationships and the strength that can be found in coming together with others. She encouraged me to seek out meaningful connections, to engage with diverse perspectives, and to nurture the bonds that transcend geographical boundaries. In the rich tapestry of my time in South Africa, Hestea's mentorship remains a guiding light—a constant reminder of the profound impact that one person can have on another's life. Her support, encouragement, and unwavering belief in my potential propelled me forward on my quest for personal growth and fulfillment. As I reflect upon the synergy between that initial act of courage and the transformative mentorship I received, I am reminded of the incredible capacity within each of us to evolve, to surpass our own expectations, and to lead lives that are imbued with purpose and meaning. It is a testament to the transformative power of connection, guidance, and the relentless pursuit of personal and intellectual growth. Every day, I am reminded of the incredible insights and profound conversations we shared. There was a time that she, my friends, my mother, aunt, and I were having brunch at a local restaurant that we all adored. It was a local restaurant called Hygge Hygge, which refers to the Danish concept of coziness, which makes a person feel content and comfortable. Hygge Hygee has been described as everything from the ‘art of intimacy’ to the ‘coziness of the soul’ and the ‘pursuit of everyday pleasures.’ Upon entering the restaurant, one would be greeted with a plethora of lush green plants and foliage that added to the establishment's natural ambiance. The menu was comprised of an array of exquisitely presented dishes, I was always drawn to the ‘Hygee Farmers Breakfast’ that was described as “For when you want the old faithful eggs, bacon and roasted tomatoes, on toast combo, and the only decision you have to make is poached, scrambled, or fried.” However, to my surprise, I was faced with an additional decision-the unexpected dilemma of choosing between lightly scrambled, medium, or well-done eggs. (This was one of the hardest decisions I had faced in my time in South Africa, and this still remains true. And I stand by this statement, even though it sounds a bit egg-centric!) Moreover, one could not help but notice the eye-catching Hygge plan, painted on wood and mounted on the wall, as a gentle reminder to enjoy life's simple pleasures, on it was painted: Be Curious. Go Outside. Get to Bed on Time. Hydrate. Breathe from the diaphragm. Eat Happy. Get a routine baggy enough to live in. Be kind. Accept that not everyone will like you. Appreciate those who do. Don’t be defined. Allow mistakes. Want what you already have. Learn to say no to things that get in the way of life. And to say yes to the things that help you live. While we settled in, and waited for what we considered the world's finest Chai teas, we engaged in a conversation about the Hygge plan on the wall. We shared our thoughts on which phrase from the plan resonated with us the most, which one we felt least connected to, and which phrase we aspired to work on, all while enjoying each other's company with lots of laughter. Then Hestea, having wiped away her tears from all the laughter, directed her gaze towards us, smiled, and began to speak. She said "Bokkies (which means "little doe" in Afrikaans) You must Demand out of Life! The underlying message she intended to impart through that statement, which I would later comprehend, was the imperative notion that in life you cannot sit and wait, you cannot sit and ask, you cannot sit and beg, you must demand out of it, out of life what you want and only then can you live a lekker life, a full life. Demanding out of life what you want out of it, is an attitude towards life and not a deficit of the heart or mind. She said, "In life, the three most important questions you can ask yourself are: What you want to do, where you want to go, and who you are going with." She said "The order of these three questions will shape the life you live.” Over the span of several months, my comprehension deepened and I gradually gained a complete understanding of the essence of those three questions and their transformative power to shape the course of one's life. If you always start with who is going with you, you will never leave and you won't go far because you are not setting the pace, you are only prolonging the time. When you start with where you want to go, you have constructed a dream, and seldom do those who are always 10 steps ahead feel the grass underneath their feet. Don't be a dreamer, be a visionary. And If you begin with what you want to do, you must have the courage to trust life, and you must want what you already have. She then went on to say to us, “But remember the most important step you take is the next one, and we are all going to die, so you might as well live a fantastic life.” She then took a napkin from the table and a pen and began writing. She slowly marked our ages on the timeline, and then inquired about the age we would like to live till, noting it on the napkin. She also marked her own age on the timeline. She looked up at us and said “Today seems like your whole life, and it's not. It is a moment, but the decisions you make about how you live it, those moments will shape your whole life. And the challenge of being young, of being human, is striking a balance between these two ways of living.” she went on to say “At least two of those questions you ask yourself will always be in tension with the other. She said, “So as you come to know yourself and the world, find alignment and balance in being, give yourself grace, romanticize life, and Bookies, grow towards the light.” So with her vibrant, abundant style of humor, and larger-than-life personality, she followed that up with “and most importantly live well!” The sudden remark prompted an explosive burst of laughter, and she continued to share many other wonderful stories that left us feeling euphoric- euphoric in the warm embrace of South Africa, the lives we had built there, and the love we all shared for her. Together, these experiences have forged a profound narrative of growth, self-discovery, and the steadfast determination to cultivate a life that honors my true potential. They have taught me that the pursuit of a life well-lived is not a solitary journey but one that is enriched by the guidance, wisdom, and support of extraordinary mentors like Hestea, and shared community with others from all walks of life. While I retained and internalized her words, it wasn't until several months later when their true significance resonated deep within me. Essentially, her message conveyed that the three questions we often ask ourselves were condensed into one fundamental query - "Who am I?" - and, distilled even further not just who we were currently, but who we were becoming and who or what was a part of that transformation. More importantly, it emphasized our engagement with the world and life as a whole. In essence, the confluence of that initial act of courage and the transformative mentorship I received in South Africa has shaped the trajectory of my life, infusing it with purpose, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to seize every moment as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. It is a testament to the extraordinary potential that resides within each of us, awaiting the moment when we dare to take that first courageous step toward our truest selves. So in that way, To the reader of this review, I encourage you to embrace a courageous leap and embark on one of the most magnificent journeys you will ever experience. Trust life, excavate through the background noise of everyday life, and heed the inner calling that beckons you to embark on a transformative adventure to Stellenbosch, South Africa. Moreover when you do, allow this moment in your life, this moment in time- albeit one semester or a year, to continue to inspire in you the desire to ask questions, to continue to critique and challenge the world around you, to remain curious, and to continue to form yourself and the spaces around you and orient them towards the light, towards greater love, joy, empathy, and peace. I have learned that to know oneself is to be at peace with who you are, where you are, on the way to where you are going. It is an alignment with existence and all that is, as it is. It is an affirmation of life through gratitude and beingness with all things around you, and that surround you. As I move forward, I carry within me the rich tapestry of my experiences in South Africa—memories of cherished coffee dates and heartfelt dinners with Hestea, countless hours spent traversing the mesmerizing coastline, and drawing lines on the comet with dear friends who remain the greatest loves of my heart. With an overflowing heart filled with gratitude and boundless joy in, and towards the world, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to those who made this transformative journey possible—the American Institute for Foreign Exchange, my South African mother Hestea, and all the remarkable individuals who crossed my path along the way. I am immensely grateful to proclaim that my time in South Africa was a testament to a life well-lived, brimming with profound friendships and unforgettable moments. Here's to you, the reader of this review—cheers! May you revel in the exhilaration of freedom and embrace the boundless possibilities that await you in Stellenbosch, South Africa. Cheers! to the way you will feel in freedom.

Studying abroad was an experience full of uncertainties and firsts for me as someone who hadn't previously had the privilege of traveling internationally and intentionally. I could not have picked a better and more fitting program for me than the SIT IHP Health and Community program that ran course in India, South Africa, and Jordan during the Spring of 2022. The supports we had available to us students were well-thought out and ready for use. When issues came up, we were able to discuss them either with ourselves or our staff. Having homestays in India and Jordan allowed me to have deeper connections with the community and cultures that we were engaging with, which I still foster today. Our group culture was to strive for our best in our assignments, learning, discussions, and immersive experiences outside of the traditional classroom since the world is the true classroom. Every day of the program provided another lesson, another moment of growth, and another moment of connection with people who are gracious enough to provide us with their knowledge and care. My life has not been the same since study abroad and I am beyond grateful for the challenging and wonderful experience I had with people who are passionate about enhancing their worldview through meaningful action and community-building.

Cape Town is such a beautiful city, with so much to learn and experience. I was worried the program I chose wouldn't immerse me as I wanted but I was absolutely proven wrong. This specific program was focused on experiential learning which taught me more than I ever thought I would gain. Highly recommend to anyone interested in health care, how culture affects it, and historical implications.

I have had a great experience, it is organized and comes at a good cost. The staff on-site is very supportive and helpful (as well as Brooke in Portland), but we had an emergency situation and the Portland higher-ups didn't handle it well, nor did anyone answer the emergency number provided to us.

One of the best parts of this program was our onsite program director, Hestea. She is a Stellenbosch local and she poured her heart into giving all of us the richest experience possible. She made it easy to fall in love with South Africa by taking us on unique excursions and explaining the value of it all. Stellenbosch is a great little town for college students. There's always something happening and it's super easy to navigate your way around (walking or cycling!). As far as academic life abroad, there are plenty of options to choose from and it was an amazing opportunity to be in classes with students from all over the world. I looked forward to working on group projects and discussing global issues with my international peers. My time abroad being surrounded by perspectives from around the world is something I'm still experiencing growth from over a year later. South Africa is beautiful, and AIFS has done a wonderful job at putting together a program that showcases as much as possible in the short time abroad.

I feel that CIEE tries to have activities for us and I really do feel that I am learning a lot here. Also everyone here seems really nice and I feel that though we are different a lot of the students seem to have the same mindset and its a good chance to network.

Studying abroad has always been a goal of mine - living in a new country, meeting different people, and exploring a new culture - and IES Abroad made it a reality. Studying abroad in Cape Town was a once in a lifetime experience. The academics at the University of Cape Town were challenging, and could be frustrating at times because of the differences in workload and grading compared to the US. However, I did learn a great amount in relation to South Africa's history and culture. IES staff were kind, hardworking, and helpful with anything that need during your six months abroad. They helped with any issues that may have arised in academics (both at the University of Cape Town and the IES courses), housing accommodations, service learning, field trips, etc. They are there for you if you are having a problem adjusting to the differences in academics or living abroad, or if you just want to stop in for a quick chat. Another aspect I thoroughly enjoyed about IES were the free field trips which included Boulder’s Beach (penguin colony!!) a Cape Malay cooking class, tour of Bo-Kaap, District 6 museum, Old Biscuit Mill, etc. They also offered to optional excursions at an additional subsidized cost (highly recommend) which was the Garden Route and a safari at Kruger National Park. Cape Town is such a beautiful place, and the people are so friendly! Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my experience abroad because I met so many great people, got to check off several items off my bucket list, and learned about a new culture and the history of South Africa.