“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.” – Saint Augustine
As we reflect on the wonderful 10 days we had with our Spanish Exchange Students, one of the most poignant questions might be how their trip to South Africa might have affected them? Leaving their homes and immersing themselves in a different culture, country and school must have had a positive impact on them, but how? Musing this question I pose the following.
Here are 5 reasons why traveling never fails to educate!
You learn a new language
Test your brain by communicating in a different ‘code’. Learn the nuances of a foreign language and experience the beauty of expression in a completely different format!
You gain independence
The variety of situations traveling exposes you to compels a person to be alert, be imaginative and instills a sense of self-confidence and awareness one otherwise would not experience.
You learn more about yourself
Exposure to different geography, culture, language and people, can challenge your perspective and broaden your horizons. You gain a deeper understanding of the way the world and different cultures function, broadening your horizons and making you more empathetic to the plight of others.
You learn about other cultures
Different societies have formed differently and have been subject to different historical pressures and developments. The manner in which humanity has forged its way in different environments gives us an insight into our own biological tendencies and capabilities. It is also awe inspiring to see the monuments and creations of these civilizations.
You realise that there is more than just your homeland out there!
Every country has its unique ‘pro’s and con’s’, its beauty and it’s challenges. Surely remaining exposed only to the social and political rhetoric of your own country limits one’s view of the world. Travel exposes the tenacity of societies to develop in different directions, with different perspectives. Perspectives which may help when back at home.
For all of the reasons cited above, and many more we feel the exchange program to be a resounding success. We, therefore, implore any student with an appetite for adventure, fun and experience ‘beyond borders’ to apply for this Septembers’ trip to La Coruña, Spain!
More information to come!
Krystle Kabbabe