After a semester of preparing and
learning a bit about South Africa, I am still just as apprehensive. I am also
increasingly anxious. I don’t know if I’m ever going to feel fully prepared for
this adventure, but I’d like to think that deep down I am.
The pre-departure course this
semester allowed me to explore the culture of South Africa through a variety of
different lenses. It was exciting to hear how people from different ethnic and
racial backgrounds, cities, majors, etc. approached different problems. I know
that there are certain issues that I will never fully grasp based on my own
identity, but I think that what I have taken from the course is that asking
questions and opening myself up to being uncomfortable will be the key to
having the fullest and most enriching experience as well as to effecting
sustainable change.
I have researched daily life in
South Africa and I have learned, at a surface level, about the conflict that
existed only a couple decades ago. I have also been challenged to look at
similar problems that exist in the U.S. This has been humbling, but has also
demonstrated to me the necessity of looking at both positives and negatives,
and at pushing yourself to be objective.
I am excited for my internship and
to explore a new country. In my past experiences, the lessons that we learn
abroad rarely come to fruition until far after the experience is over. I will
hold this in the back of my mind when I am feeling frustrated or tired.
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