I’ve now been in South Africa for two weeks and the country has really impressed me. In general, South Africa’s tough history has left many people thinking that it’s an impoverished and disease- struck place. Therefore, when I first arrived I had prepared myself for the worst. Although the signs of Apartheid and poverty are still present, I can firmly say that South Africa has surpassed all my expectations.

In terms of the school, everything has been great. Saints has really impressed me. The sense of pride that everyone at the school has in Stithians has left me in awe. As well, my teachers have been very nice and understanding. I am not finding it too much of a challenge to cope with the curriculum. Before this exchange, I thought that LCC had the best athletics program, but I think Saints may just have the edge. The athletics are truly amazing. I’m playing on two sports teams as well as frequently using the school gym. I’m also finding that sports are a great way to meet tons of new people. Through sports I’ve already made some great friends.

When I first arrived I was surprised at how different Canada and South Africa were. One could say that I was experiencing culture shock. However, now that I’ve been here for almost two weeks and am more comfortable, I am realizing that although Canada and South Africa are over 10,000 kilometers away, the mentality of the people here are very similar to Canadians. Everyone I have met so far has been super friendly and like us, South Africans have a pretty relaxed mentality. So I feel right at home here. –Julien Miller ’12