Student Services

Orientation

Participants will have a three day orientation when they arrive in Pretoria. With sessions on health and safety, academics, local living, cultural adjustment, and community engagement, the goal of the orientation is to provide all students with information about the program and Pretoria, as well as to discuss their goals and expectations for the program.

Mentor Program

University of Pretoria students will serve as mentors to participants, providing guidance and assistance in a number of areas including academics, logistics, housing and cultural integration. At least two mentors live with students in Hatfield and most of them regularly join program participants in activities and classes.

Housing

Students will live at the Village in Hatfield Guest House. Situated within walking distance of LC De Villiers Sport Centre, The High Performance Centre, Hatfield Square, the University of Pretoria and Loftus Versveld, the Village features two bedroom cottages, each with a private entrance and surrounded by beautiful gardens. All cottages are fully equipped with en-suite bathrooms, TV’s and tea/coffee making facilities. The Village also features a heated swimming pool.

Excursions

Throughout the semester, students will participate in a number of field trips and excursions. These will include visits to Soweto and other townships, homestays, a safari, as well as local visits to the Apartheid Museum, Nelson Mandela’s House in Johannesburg, the Voortrekker Monument and Museum, Freedom Park, the National Zoological Gardens and the Union Buildings. The program also includes a week-long visit to Cape Town and the surrounding areas. This excursion features homestays and visits to nearby Stellenbosch farms and vineyards.