Submitted by Drew DaVia on the 2018 winter session program in South Africa sponsored by the Department of Human Development and Family Studies…
Wow! I tried my best to come into this experience without any expectations because I had no clue what to expect, and it honestly exceeded anything I could have imagined. There was something awesome to experience in every single day. It was my first time out of the United States, and I really wish I didn’t have to go back. This program touched me mentally, emotionally and spiritually in countless ways, and I feel that I have grown so much stronger as a person. I’ve made such good friends here and I truly feel that we’ll keep in touch for the rest of our lives. I’m beyond thankful for every aspect of this journey and feel blessed to have been a part of it. South Africa now holds a very special place in my heart and I fully intend on returning someday. I appreciate everyone that helped me get here and the ones along the way who made this program what it was. I believe that direction is greater than purpose, and that love is the point in the compass that brought me here. I loved every second of this experience.
