ALUMNI POST: From Unplanned Lessons to Future Lesson Planning

By Ellen, 2023 Trip (Education, '25)

Ellen and Cindra at Gateway School

It is hard to believe that it has now been two years since embarking on our journey to South Africa. When I first decided to take this trek, I had no idea how it would impact my life. In class, like all of you, I learned a lot of information about the history of South Africa and how that impacts the present-day socio-economic status. Quite honestly, it was a lot for me to take in, but I knew that we would be blessed with the opportunity to experience the beautiful country in which all of the events took place. Not only was South Africa a beautiful country to see, but one in which I grew.

Along the way, the group had tough conversations, educational experiences, and supposedly easy hikes up mountains. As a future educator, I was able to grow in my ability to talk to peers I may not have come into contact with around Viterbo and connect on a deeper level. This journey taught me how to listen before acting and take a step back. I enjoy observing and being the last one to move on, in which this experience allowed me to soak in all of the moments. Whether observing from the bus window, arriving to our beds at night, or simply hearing others' points of view, I learned to disconnect from technology and listen.

My time in South Africa also allowed me to reflect on what matters most and what I do have. In America, we try our hardest to keep up with the 21st century in schools, but it is essential to remember that getting off of devices is okay. Working with students in South Africa to sort bottle caps based on their color and size was a profound moment in my educational career. Neither the students nor I could understand each other’s language, but we both understood motions and emotions. The students were young, only around 4 years old, but they made a huge impact on my life. At that age, it is hard to open your school to someone new, but they did. They let a total stranger come sort with them, and they showed me how much you can do with what you have. In my future classroom, I will be blessed to be surrounded with technology; because of this experience, though, I will remember to get students off of it. There is so much you can do without relying on technology all the time. South Africa taught me a lot about myself and others, but most importantly I learned how to listen and help others. South Africa will always hold a special piece of my heart.

Again, ukuhamba okuphephile and best of luck to all of you! Good luck climbing mountains!

To read Ellen's original post from her 2023 trip, see here.