Tumi Fadare, Pitt in South Africa Summer 2024
Studying abroad in South Africa has definitely influenced and changed my perspective academically, personally, and professionally. On the personal side, this was my first time spending more than a week abroad, so I felt like I was living full-time in South Africa during my month there. It significantly changed my perspective on how I view the world and my appreciation of the privileges I have. As a Black woman in the United States, particularly attending a predominantly white institution, I sometimes felt marginalized. However, going to Africa opened my eyes to different aspects of the world and made me appreciate my privileges, such as the value of my U.S. passport. While South Africa faces racism and discrimination like the United States, they only transitioned to democracy and ended apartheid just 30 years ago. Witnessing their societal challenges opened my eyes and broadened my perspective beyond what I typically see in the U.S. Personally, this experience has made me more open. I used to consider myself open-minded, but going to South Africa exposed me to so much more. I’ve gained more than I ever thought I could in terms of how I handle myself, interact with people, and view life as a whole.
Academically, this program has had a significant impact on me. It was led by two professors, one from the English department and one from the history department. All the other students in the program, apart from myself, were in Dietrich, studying either history, literature, political science, or similar fields. I was the only STEM student, bringing a different perspective to the table. Initially, I wasn’t sure how I would adjust to the classes or if I would find them interesting. However, I found the classes fascinating and appreciated the different viewpoints and ways of thinking they offered. This experience has expanded my thinking, encouraging me to think outside the box and consider other disciplines’ approaches to various questions. I’ve also improved my writing and gained a deeper understanding of history.
Professionally, this program has been transformative. I aspire to become a professional project manager when I graduate from Pitt. This role involves interacting with diverse teams to accomplish specific projects. I need to understand various viewpoints, personalities, and cultures. Although the United States is a melting pot, going to South Africa allowed me to experience a different melting pot and see how other cultures and societies live and think. This was influential because I now feel I have a broader international perspective, at least regarding the southern African region. Although I’ve always been interested in working with people from different cultures, I never seriously considered working internationally. After being in Cape Town, I can see myself working and possibly living internationally, thanks to the beauty and experiences I encountered. I am truly grateful for all of it.
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