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“Cape Town was the most remarkable experience of my life. I learned so much about myself and even more about the world. My classes were engaging and insightful and the people I met were amongst the friendliest and most inviting group. This is the most beautiful city I have ever been to, vibrant and friendly and I’m more than lucky to have called it home for 4 months. I’ll definitely be back and hope to call it ‘home’ later in life. It was more than I could ever have imagined in a study abroad experience.” [Annie (UCSB) December 2017]

“My time in South Africa with IDACA was incredible. I had so many fun and educational experiences, both on and off campus. Isabella, Shannon and the rest of the team took unbelievable care of us and organized a bunch of really interesting events where we all bonded and grew together. We had a great group of students and I couldn’t have asked for a better overall experience. Thanks so much for everything!” [Sam UC SB December 2017]

I’ll now forever carry around a piece of South Africa and incredible experience this semester has been. I can’t tell you how much you have made this place feel like home. Thank you for welcoming us with open arms. [First Semester 2017 Sheila UCB]

“I truly don’t know how to thank you for all the kindness and hospitality you have shown me on my trip to Cape Town. Although my time here was short, it was an invaluable experience. I was very nervous to travel to a new country by myself, so it meant a lot that you two helped me to feel comfortable and welcome from day 1. Thanks to you I have made life-long friends and will definitely be returning to Cape Town in the future”. [Shannon UCSB August 2018]

It seems a lifetime ago that you were so patient with all our silly questions. You not only allayed our fears but made us confident that this would be an experience of a lifetime. [parent]

I just want to thank you again for all that you have done for us! IDACA was such a wonderful support system to have while being in a new country and at a new school. My mom wants to thank you especially for the help when I was sick at the beginning of the semester. It was definitely a memorable time and I can’t wait to be back. [Stacey Baeg U\C Santa Cruz December 2016]

My time in Cape Town was incredibly influential on my life and I really owe you, Ida, and the associates for everything. I’ll be living in Japan for the next few years but I hope to make it back to Cape Town sometime in the near future. [Jack Goldman UC/Santa Cruz]

Isabella, I would like to thank you and Shannon for helping me to adjust to Cape Town in the beginning and for ensuring that my experience throughout the semester was nothing but great. Your concern and look-out for my well-being as well as all of the other students is truly appreciated. [Tamara Oueini UC/Irvine]

My time in South Africa was hands down, the best five months of my life. I made lifelong friends in one of the most awesome places in the world. I loved your program and the care and support that all of us received.  [student]

I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for being there every step of my time abroad. You were so helpful and made my stay in South Africa easier. During my orientation preparation for South Africa I was told that I would feel homesick. However, I never felt that way mostly I think, because you were so welcoming and kind. You guys were like my South African moms. [Jennifer Ayala U\C IRVINE December 2016]

So very grateful to have had all your help in Cape Town. We were so lucky to have you there whenever we needed you. Co-ordinating our accommodation, making us feel at home, offering great advice about the city and all your efforts to make us comfortable in Cape Town were really appreciated. The dinner you hosted was such a special evening too. [Elisa]

Isabella and Shannon, thank you for everything! I loved every minute of my time in Cape Town and I can’t wait to figure out a way to come back. [Maddie Johnson U\C Los Angeles November 2016]