A Blog about Education Abroad

Tag: Summer School

  • Jonathan at the Renmin University of China

    Jonathan at the Renmin University of China

    Pre-departure:

    I am a final year Electronic Engineering student at Stellenbosch University and went to the Renmin University of China summer school in June 2015. I heard about the PGIO summer schools from a friend of mine who went the previous year. He said that it was one of the most fantastic experiences he had ever gone on and that I should enter no matter what. So I did just that, and filled in all the forms and made my video. I waited until the April holidays to get feedback about the summer school and then even longer for my application to RUC to be approved. RUC finally let me know I was fully accepted about a month before the school was to start, so once I was accepted I immediately had to book tickets and decide on my itinerary.

    (more…)

  • Siphosihle Mzongwana at the AC21 World Student Forum

    Siphosihle Mzongwana at the AC21 World Student Forum

    PRE- DEPARTURE:

    My preparations were quite overwhelming at some point because it was my first time to travel abroad. Because of this I decided to book my flight through a travel agent so that I avoid unnecessary stress. I didn’t want to make any mistake or encounter a system error online that will cost me dearly. The travel agent booked for me my return ticket and also got me travel insurance. The most overwhelming one was the visa application process. I had to make sure that I get the relevant documentation for the visa. I had to get the acceptance letter from AC21, letter of proof of accommodation in France, return flight ticket, travel insurance, letter from the university validating that I am a registered student and I will resume my academic program after the Student World Forum, two passport size photos and a fee of R1200.

    (more…)

  • Claire at the AC21 Student World Forum

    Claire at the AC21 Student World Forum

    RITUALISTIC PLANNING BEFORE I LEFT:

    After getting over the excitement and shock at being selected for such an incredible opportunity, I started planning. Before the travel bursary was discussed I started looking at flight prices and times. I used Travelstart to book my flights- that website really is the best way to find the cheapest flight. I was lucky to be able to extend my stay for three nights in Basel, where I had a friend. I bought train tickets online and they delivered it to my house- all very easy- google Eurorail South Africa and it is simple from there! I did not have to get a VISA because I am a British citizen, so that was another benefit for me . I suggest learning a few words of the country you visit, just to communicate in the shops. I had to resort to sign language very often.

    (more…)