Since coming home from Cape Town, I
have had some culture shock moments, particularly the first few days. First I
realized how many white people there are here (or at least in my town).
Although I expected these racial dynamics, it was weird coming back and seeing
it again. Also, as soon as we landed at JFK I noticed how fast everyone was
rushing around which made me realize how the environment in Cape Town was
definitely slower and more relaxed.
Besides that, I've actually quickly
adjusted to life back in America and things feel kind of similar honestly. I
looked up events going on in Boston since I remember how much there was to do
in Cape Town. I happily found lots of cool events going on, but the problem is
that they're expensive! Not to mention that transportation from the suburbs is
a struggle (like even getting to a train station) especially when you don't
have a car. So the exchange rate is sad to come back to along with being stuck
in the suburbs, but I am making the best of it and will plan some events to go
to. Also hiking in Cape Town has made me more a fan of being outdoors so I plan
to hike more this summer.
Last, my parents already had some
idea of what I've been doing in Cape Town since I called them often while
abroad and also posted photos on Facebook. So they didn't ask too many
questions about my trip, although my friends were super excited to hear about
everything. Another thing is that my friends and family don't talk about social
issues to the extent we did in Cape Town so that's a bit different. I feel like
if I bring it up we'll talk about it a little but no one feels so passionate
about it as much as I saw from my co-educators on the trip. However, all the
discussions we had in Cape Town did resonate with me a lot and I look at things
from more of a critical eye now. I don't like being too negative, because I am
naturally more of an optimistic person and like to notice the good, but I do
appreciate being able to see more things pertaining to race, class, gender,
etc.
I feel like I have definitely gained
a new POV from being in SA which helps me understand cultural differences
better. I recently watched the movie "Concussion" and there were
moments where I felt I understood the doctor character more (he's from Nigeria)
since I get how different African views are from American ones. Also, just
reflecting upon my internship, I realize how fortunate I am to have had the
chance to do so much good work. I really do appreciate my time at Africa Unite.
Overall, even though life right now seems similar to before, I know I have
gained new perspectives and I'm sure my Cape Town experiences will continue to
affect me in other ways in the future.
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