My name is Marlies and I am 20 years old. I am Dutch and I am now on exchange to Stellenbosch, South-Africa. There are many things that I like to do: swimming, dancing, singing, shopping, photographing and more. The question is of course: why did I choose Stellenbosch, South-Africa for my exchange? You can list five places where you prefer to go. I wanted to go somewhere outside Europe, because I thought I only get this chance once, so better go far away. Furthermore, I didn’t want to go to South America and Asia. So, my preferred places were Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Richmond, USA. South Africa was on the third place, but I was and still am really excited about it! It is the curiosity to the culture that attracted me, I guess. Also the climate, people and nature lead me to choose for it. And the language is quite familiar to the Dutch one which is also nice, although English is the next major language. In the end, it is just the feeling you have about a country I think. I had to get used to the idea that I was offered the opportunity to go to Stellenbosch, but after a few weeks I was totally sure that it was a good choice to confirm it. The exchange coordinators in Stellenbosch are very helpful and kind. They quickly replied to my emails and I could ask whatever I wanted to know. So, the support is very good from that side. Start in time with application for a Visa, because you need a lot of papers for it to be complete. I am currently at Dubai International airport, when writing this. I hope it will be a great time in Stellenbosch and I am really looking forward to it. This was a short introduction from my side and you will read more of my experiences soon.
Regards, Marlies
