Well, it's official. My application was sent to South Africa and I have been accepted to student teach in Cape Town! Although I am rather excited, about 50% of me is nervous as well. My mom called to tell me the good news... I received a letter in the mail from the COST Headquarters with my acceptance letter and information about who to contact regarding where I will be staying once I arrive in Cape Town. SO exciting! I cried when my mom read the letter to me!
Monday, November 5, 2007
I contacted Dr. Baxen, the COST coordinator in South Africa. There are four students traveling to SA in January. Dr. Baxen is arranging for us to all stay in an independent residence where we would share costs and cook for ourselves or as a group. She is trying to place us close to shopping areas, malls, cinemas and theatres. This arrangement is also close to trains and taxi's. The cost of living is going to be about R2000-R2400, which equals about $290-$355 in USD.
Schools begin on January 14 for teachers and the 16th for students. My placement is from January 17-March 20 (or something along those lines), but tentatively I plan on leaving January 10. Terrez, another COST student from OU, and I have decided to travel together. Going that far is a long flight all by yourself. Dr. Baxen informed us that the first two days are spent planning, finalizing teaching schedules and rosters, etc. Leaving on the 10th will give Terrez and I time to acclimate and ease us into the life of SA.
Schools have a fall break from March 20-April 14. Dr. Baxen encourages us to use this time for travel outside of Cape Town. ABSOLUTELY! :) I.E. Kruger Park, Victoria Falls, Botswana, Cape Coast traveling, etc.
Lastly, I found out my school placement. I will be teaching at Rustenburg Girls High School. I am not sure what levels I will be teaching, but nonetheless, it will be an experience. When I first saw my placement, I was really intimidated because I have never set foot in an all-girls school. I am sure it will be challenging, but definitely a meaningful experience. I hope I can be a good role model and mentor to my students!
I have an exciting adventure heading my way!
1 comment:
Hey! m SP & m 4rm SA.It's kind of kul 2 c ppl excited 2 come 2 my coutry, so I decided to pre-welcome u to SOUTH AFRICA!!!
Post a Comment