Submitted by Alexa Hirschberg on the 2018 winter session program in South Africa sponsored by the Department of Behavioral Health & Nutrition…
A whirlwind of excitement, illuminated by the cultural and experiential services, has been bestowed on me directly in South Africa, consuming my first week here. To say I was nervous was an understatement, yet to prepare for this incredible opportunity, I researched about the many different issues I would be facing surrounding service and public health. Being a privileged student who has benefited from the exchange rate of US dollar to Rand, I could easily understand the spaces of wealth, poverty, and areas in between, within South Africa. Even so, from the moment I stepped foot off the plane, I felt a sense of home and that I was ready to take in new experiences. It definitely did help that everyone was so welcoming and friendly, including our amazing tour guide Patrick – who’s already taught me more about life than I could have ever dreamed of. How cool is it that when responding to ‘thank you’ they say ‘pleasure’ or ‘see you again my friend’ – so polite and sincere, as if you are a long time acquaintance? While the people are magnificent, learning about the Cradle of Human Kind and how this is known as the starting place of evolution, can be an overwhelming emotion. I find myself with a lack of words as I come within ten feet of a cheetah, hyena and even touching the tusk of a free roaming elephant. Living in the moment and taking in each and every experience is key to ensuring that this travel experience is not only educational, but also a life memory filled with teachings beyond what I could even comprehend. All we have is NOW my friends. It’s been a pleasure.
