By Abigail D

Published Jan. 24, 2025

There is something profound about being truly seen. During orientation in Cape Town, I was taught a simple greeting, "Sawubona," a Zulu word that literally means "I see you." It is not just a casual hello but an acknowledgment of another person's complete humanity. Throughout my time in Cape Town, I witnessed how the power of being…

By Charlie D.

Published Jan. 24, 2025

As I settle back into Columbia for a frigid second semester, memories of my incredible last two weeks in Cape Town come flooding back. Visiting Africa was never something I thought I would have the chance to experience, and I am incredibly grateful for this unbelievably amazing opportunity. Beyond the classroom lectures that deepened my…

By Iliana F.

Published Jan. 16, 2025

This winter break, I had the opportunity to travel to South Africa. Though I spent just over a week abroad, I learned so much, saw so many new things and explored Cape Town. During this brief period, I learned about the complexity of South Africa’s politics and the country’s long history from colonization to the…

By Garrison S.

Published Jan. 15, 2025

https://flic.kr/p/2qFwgYZ Table Bay and Cape Town As I’m writing this, I’m waiting at the airport for my flight departing Cape Town and reflecting on my experiences here over the past 10 days. My study abroad program focused on the study of race and politics here in South Africa, learning about how the legacy of the…

By Piper C.

Published Sept. 12, 2024

https://flic.kr/p/2qgaQP7 I had the opportunity to walk with elephants. Although I was terrified, I’m forever grateful for the experience with these beautiful animals. Building Friendships Going into this experience, I felt anxious about being the only student from Mizzou and meeting new people. However, I approached it with the mindset that it would help build…

By Mya W.

Published Sept. 1, 2023

I've been in South Africa for over a week now and have had to learn and unlearn so many things. For starters, they drive on the left-hand side, so I've had to train my brain to look the opposite way for cars. I assumed everyone here was African, but that was so wrong. There are…