Jordyn Brownlee ’25

Program: South Africa Semester

Major: Accounting – Finance

Minor: Data Analytics

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you decide on this program?

I decided to study abroad last minute because I felt I may regret it if I didn’t. Knowing what I do now- I definitely would have. I chose South Africa because I felt I would grow the most in an unfamiliar place and I honestly didn’t know too much about the country. I also liked the volunteering aspect of this program which made it unique compared to other programs.

Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your program that made a lasting impression.

During my time in South Africa, there was a storm that came through and wiped out many of the informal settlement homes in the townships. This affected my group as we were volunteering with the kids that lived in these homes, and knowing this happened really shook us up. We ended up going there every day that week to give the workers and families rebuilding the homes a meal. It was tough to see poverty and inequalities happening so close to us, but immersing ourselves in this community was so rewarding and changed my outlook on life.

Based on your experiences abroad, what are some of the benefits of spending a semester abroad? How has studying abroad contributed to your personal, academic, and professional development?

I’ve heard so many testimonies about how people change abroad, but you really have to live it to understand. I became more understanding, more sensitive, more aware, especially living in a 3rd world country where inequalities are so apparent. But on the flip side, I notice the beauty in everything now, and overall just feel more gratitude in my daily life.

What advice can you offer for CSB+SJU students who are considering or planning to study abroad?

Go in open-minded with no expectations. Because I was the first group from CSB+SJU to study abroad in Stellenbosch, I went in blindly, and I truly think that enhanced my experience to not compare it to anybody else’s experience.