Ephrata's Summer 2025 Study Abroad Story: Global Community Engagement and Social Change:
The Public Affairs 300: Global Community Engagement Social Change in South Africa engages students in academic, experiential and intercultural learning in and about South Africa. Students will focus on contemporary social challenges and the strategies that government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and citizen activists are using to address them. This program combined site visits, lectures, and community based learning to help us understand the ongoing challenges and opportunities for justice and equity in a post-apartheid society.
What have you learned through your Study Abroad course?
Through this course, I gained a deeper understanding of how history and politics continue to shape social challenges in a multicultural society. Learning about the legacy of apartheid, particularly through visits to the District Six Museum and the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation, showed me how the past is inseparable from present struggles for housing, education, and community inclusion. I also learned the importance of advocacy, both for yourself and for your community, as a crucial part of building social change.
How has this experience benefited you?
Personally, this trip gave me a deeper appreciation for South Africa. Its history of resilience and transformation deeply resonates with my passion for social justice. This was a unique opportunity for me to gain firsthand insight into post-apartheid progress, grassroots activism, and community-driven solutions. By immersing myself in such a vibrant cultural and socio-political landscape, I was able to strengthen my understanding and perspective of global community engagement while also contributing to sustainable, meaningful change.
How has this experienced help you with your INDS degree?
This experience directly supports my INDS degree in Business and Global Affairs as well as my minor in Entrepreneurship since my academic path is centered on understanding global systems, fostering cross-cultural connections, and driving meaningful change. The lessons I took away from Cape Town will help develop my research on conflict resolution and linguistic inclusion, particularly how communities use storytelling, dialogue, and digital tools to bridge divides. In addition, I improved my communication and intercultural skills, which will strengthen both my academic work and future professional goals.
Can you share a memorable moment with us:
A particularly memorable moment was visiting the YMCA in Athlone, where we met youth and staff who are creating safe spaces for kids and young adults to grow and thrive. Witnessing their impact reminded me why global community engagement matters.
Congrats Ephrata!
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