The Call of South Africa for winter 2009 will run from January 2nd – 27th, 2009. With a declining economy and rising oil prices, we have worked as diligently as possible to keep the program accessible for students; the cost of the course is $4,790. Applications will be available next week for the course from the Isabella Cannon Centre for International Studies. We are looking for Elon’s best and brightest students, and those interested in learning more about Africa and its diaspora. If you are interested in applying, please read on . . .
In its second year, the South Africa course generated an overwhelming response. Students keep asking, “How can we get into the course?” The simple answer is that only those students who are truly committed and open to learning more about the people, history, and culture of this wonderful country should apply. Take time to write brilliant essays that speak to why you want to enroll in this course. “Four of my sorority sisters applied to this course” or “I’ve traveled everywhere except South Africa, so why not?” are not the strongest reasons for enrolling in any course. The travel component is but one feature of a tremendous experience. While this advice will not ensure that everyone who applies will be selected, writing strong and indicating whether the course satisfies any academic requirements will certainly improve your chances.
In its inaugural year, the travel itinerary took students along the scenic Garden route of South Africa’s West Coast, and in its second year, students traveled South Africa’s East Coast, departing Cape Town, for Durban, traveling through Kwazulu Natal, tracing Ghandi’s footsteps, stopping in Kruger National Park before arriving in Johannesburg. In 2009, the itinerary will be altered again to ensure that students have varied, but equally as rewarding experiences as in previous years, although the course content and focus will remain the same.
Other aspects that remain unchanged are the exciting readings and lectures by South African and African-American writers, scholars, and activists, visits to museums, cultural and historical sites, immersion in African-American and South African communities and townships, outings with South African university students, internships in your field or areas of interest, and other opportunities to last a lifetime.
Mandatory pre-departure orientation sessions take place from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. on September 12th and 26th, October 10th and November 21st., 2008.
There are several ways you can decide if this is the right study abroad program for you. Stop by the Isabella Cannon Centre to pick up a brochure and gather more information or go their website at http://www.elon.edu/e-web/academics/cannon/ Visit the South Africa course blog at http://idd.elon.edu/sasa for updates and to read student reflections from previous years. Finally, contact Dr. Layne at playne@elon.edu with questions, concerns, and to indicate your interest. You may also be able to read sample essays upon request.
Join us in 2009!