Will Chabala

Will Chabala Arrives in South Africa

So far going on exchange in South Africa has been an amazing experience. I’ve been here for a little over two weeks and already I’ve had the time of my life. I met my exchange partner, Nsuku, and his family right as I exited customs at the airport. Nsuku and I were soon cracking jokes and messing around as if we had known each other for much longer. That was when I knew that exchange was going to be pretty awesome. My favorite experience so far was when we went to a local park and played with lions, ocelots, caracals, and more. We even got to hold some of them!

I’ve been attending Stanford Lake College and it is very different from Athenian. No matter how much Nsuku told me about the school, nothing could prepare me for my first day. I was nervous, really nervous, because first impressions are really important. But luckily everyone here is very welcoming. Besides the shared belief in outdoor adventure, this school and Athenian are very different. The food, classes, how you address your teachers (Sir and Ma’am), and uniform make it a very different school. I wasn’t given a uniform to wear so I stand out like a black sheep. But it’s still amazing and in two weeks I’ve already had the time of my life!

 

Will Chabala bids Farewell to South Africa

My exchange is quickly coming to an end. This is my last week at school and in South Africa. I am incredibly sad that I have to leave, but I’m also incredibly glad that I have had this experience. The six weeks that I have been here have flown by in an instant. Having to say goodbye to all my friends and my exchange family will be one of the hardest things I have ever done.

I have learned a lot during my time here, about myself and others. I’ve learned how to live away from home in a strange new environment, skills that will come in handy when I go off to college. Everyone here is so amazing; I cannot say that enough. From the second I got here till my last day of school I have felt like I’m at home.  It will be sad to say goodbye, but I know that I’ll eventually see them again. Thanks for everything Stanford Lake College.  I’ll miss you.