It's the 'end' of the world as we know it, and I feel fine!

I have officially been to the end of the world. Well…at least the southernmost point on the African continent. We spent yesterday hiking to the Cape of Good Hope, visiting Seal Island via a glass bottom boat, and seeing lots of African penguins on a nearby beach. There were even wild baboons crossing the road- definitely not a typical occurrence back in the states!

Today, a group of us hiked up Stellenbosch Mountain to take in the splendor of the surrounding countryside. The hiking was pretty strenuous, and it even included points of intense rock climbing (we were literally vertical!). I became the unofficial group leader, and had to work hard at navigating the ascent and descent (which was made especially challenging in lieu of any actual hiking trails). Needless to say, I am pretty exhausted, but so, so happy!

Classes have been amazing! My SA political history class will definitely keep me on my toes, but I'm ready for the challenge! I am most excited for my public health theory course. We spent the better part of Friday learning about the history of South Africa's health care system and an overview of their current health challenges, which we will be fleshing out over the upcoming weeks. By far the best part of the week was our excursion to visit two rural hospitals, where we got to meet the staff and see how things are run.

We also went to a rural township to help community health care workers deliver medications to their patients, who are unable to commute to the health center to pick them up themselves. At one of the homes I visited, I was able to have an amazing conversation with the woman who lived there. After being invited into her house, which is a ten-by-ten foot space that she shares with five other family members (we're talking a dirt floor shack made of cardboard and scrap metal, with no running water or electricity, and lots of flies everywhere- see picture), I proceeded to ask her if she was happy living there. Her entire face lit up, and she exclaimed how much she enjoys her neighbors and being able to live with her family. Her optimism and zest surprised me, but it was so neat to see someone who is determined to make the most of life, despite the daily living challenges she faces. I spent a few more minutes conversing with the family. The grandmother even gave me a hug when I left! The whole interaction really inspired me and reconfirmed what it is about public health that I am so passionate about- the ability to establish human connections that can transcend language, social, and cultural barriers.

I am definitely feeling less like a tourist, and more like I belong here. I am excited to see what the upcoming weeks will bring, and I'll be sure to keep you posted!