Chibozu Maambo, a BIT 3rd year student, is the first Exchange Student from Northrise University to study at Dordt College. She joined the September semester and describes her stay so far as nothing but enjoyable, especially the thrills of a new environment. Just to check on how she is settling in, here are her answers to a few questions:
Q: How are you settling in?
A: I am settling in well both academically, socially and most importantly spiritually.
Q: Is the “Dordt” you had in mind the same as what you found?
A: The Dordt I found is a confirmation of the Dordt I had in mind. e.g.. good morals, high levels of organization. The institution is conducive for study and personal growth in all areas.
Q: What is the most interesting thing that you have either done or seen other students do?
A: Attending salsa/tango (both expressive) dance classes. Its fun learning how other cultures use their music. I am also a member of SWB (students without borders). The club focuses on students from different countries working together in order to get to know more about each other.
Q: What is one thing that caught you by surprise , cultural norm that you didn’t expect?
A: It was weird that i had to keep right on the streets and in hallways when all my life I’ve been keeping left… Another interesting thing is language variation, e.g., have a good one to mean have a good day and oh no you are fine to mean its alright.
Q: What do you have to say about the Student Exchange Program at NU and its benefits?
A: The opportunity to study in a different country broadens an individual’s perspective of life. One gets to view the world through the eyes of others. The program has in particular has helped me appreciate the different cultures that the world offers. I am thankful to NU and I know my experience here will be worthwhile.
Q: What do you miss the most from home and when do you return?
A: I miss my family, church and friends – ouch!!. Media team too 🙁 I return shortly before Christmas 🙂 so that i can enjoy it the Zambian way…