After a total of twenty hours travelling, I finally landed in the fascinating city of Johannesburg, South Africa. After being warmly greeted by my host family at the pickup area, I knew I was in good hands and was bursting with excitement to embark on this tremendous, two-month journey!

Fortunately, I arrived a few days before school started, so I had time to settle in and explore what Johannesburg has to offer, with my host, Olivia and her family and friends. Olivia has three younger sisters: Sophie is five years old, Grace is ten years old and Leigh is thirteen years old. Each one of them has a unique personality and brings so much enjoyment to my life here in South Africa!

Sally and Brett, my host parents, have welcomed me with open arms and always make me feel at home. Also, I have made many new friends, in, and out of school, who are all so kind and help me to feel included in this new environment.

St Stithians Girls’ College is the school I am attending whilst here. It is located on a stunning campus and is filled with lively students and teachers, who come in every morning with a smile on their face. Going to a school with just girls is refreshing and is a new experience for me, which I am thoroughly enjoying.

After a few weeks here, I have fed giraffes and pet lion cubs, went to the Gold Reef City amusement park, spent a beautiful weekend in Durban, swam in the sea, visited a water park, walked elephants and much more. Evidently, my time here so far has been quite eventful!

Doing an exchange has definitely been the best decision of my life and the bonds, memories and friendships here will never leave my mind. I am ecstatic to spend another few weeks here and will cherish every moment possible! – Julia Garfinkle ’16 (LCC Exchange Student @ St Stithians Girls’ College in South Africa)