South Africa - Summer Cultural Exploration
Programs in South Africa
Program Summary
- Dates: July
- Accommodation: Dormitory
- Location: Cape Town, South Africa
- Academics: Leadership and culture classes
- Excursions: Cape of Good Hope, Robben Island, Table Mountain
- Language: No language requirement
- Age: 15–18 years old
- Cost: $6,850 (2009)
- Application Deadline: March 31, 2009
Explore
Sitting near the southern tip of the African continent, with its temperate climate and the majestic Table Mountain rising in the background, Cape Town is known as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It has an architecture and lifestyle which are broadly cosmopolitan yet quintessentially Capetonian. With a diversity of people and landscapes–from the mountains lush indigenous gardens to sandy beaches, the Cape is the perfect place for the adventurous spirit.
Experience
Make a difference by volunteering in an underprivileged community, working in schools or taking care of children in an orphanage. From Monday through Thursday, for three hours per day, you'll give back to the local community by doing community service in small groups in and around Cape Town. Such work will help students appreciate the importance of public service and understand the problems brought by the legacy of Apartheid.
Learn
In the evenings, you'll engage in lively discussions about current events in Africa. These educational sessions, facilitated by experienced teachers, will enable students to develop an understanding of African history, traditional culture and African languages. Students will also hear from compelling guest speakers, on topics ranging from Apartheid to AIDS and economic development.
Travel
Students will have the chance to explore the awe-inspiring country of South Africa through the following included weekend excursions:
- Cape of Good Hope – Visit the historic island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Plan for a day of rugged adventure as you hike up majestic Table Mountain where you'll soak up a panoramic view of the entire city of Cape Town.
- Robben Island & Table Mountain – Visit the historic island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Plan for a day of adventure as you hike up majestic Table Mountain and bike to awe-inspiring Cape Point
Housing
Students will stay on the campus of Bishops School, one of the most prestigious boarding schools in South Africa. The location is convenient for day or weekend trips to the many picturesque sites on the Cape. Students will stay in comfortable shared dormitory rooms. There will be an On-Site Coordinator living in the residence hall with the students. The facility has a computer room for e-mail, a lounge for movie nights, a recreational room with table tennis and a pool table and an on-site dining facility.
Requirements
- 15–18 years old
- 2.5 GPA or higher (4.0 scale)
- Flexible and mature personality; desire to be challenged, ability to remain open-minded and tolerant of cultural differences
Program Information
| Length | Dates | Cost | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 weeks | July | $6,850 (2009) | March 31, 2009 |




