We, the Homepage-AG, did an interview with our exchange student Christopher from South Africa. We are really excited to get to know him better and to get to know more about South Africa…
Whats your name and how old are you?
Christopher and I am 16 years old.
When did you arrive in Germany? And how long are you going to stay in Germany?
I arrived in Germany on the 29th November 2017 and I´m going to stay till January.
Why did you want to come to Germany for your exchange program? Did you have any other countries you would have liked or preferred to for your exchange program?
I could not choose another country for the exchange, but if I could I would´ve chosen Germany.
What are your first impressions of Germany, Rietberg and our school?
Germany is a lot more developed than South Africa. Your school system is a lot more efficient than our school system. I would say that Rietberg has a magical feel to it. I like the historic feel of the town.
Have you already noticed any differences between your school in South Africa and the „Gymnasium Rietberg“?
Yes, in South Africa we have assembly in the mornings, we wear school uniforms and our school days are shorter than Gymnasium Rietberg´s. Our school building is also“open“, meaning it´s not all under one roof.
Do you see any differences between the life in South Africa and the life in Germany?
The life in Germany allows you to have more freedom than in South Africa. In South Africa we can´t go out at like 10:00 at night due to a high crime rate.
In a few days you will start a tour to different places and cities in Germany. How exciting…. What are you looking forward the most?
I am looking forward to go skiing and to go to the christmas market in munich. We don´t have christmas markets in South Africa.
Can you imagine doing another exchange program to another country in the future? Why/Why not?
Yes, I think an exchange program is a brilliant way to immerse yourself into a new country. The contacts and friends that you make during an exchange program can be helpfull later in life.
Can you imagine to study in a foreign country in a few years? Why/ Why not?
Most certainly, I plan on studying either in America or in Europe after I finish with 12. grade.
Please share some facts or impressions about your life in South Africa (hometown, hobbies, everyday life, school,etc.).
My hometown is Klerksdorp, it´s a small town in the North West province. It´s two hours away from Johannesburg. I like photography, reading and shopping. In my school we only have seven subjects in tenth grade, but I have eight subjects. My extra subject is business studies.
Thank you so much for sharing all those information with us and taking the time. We really welcome you to Rietberg and wish you the best time ever.
Das Interview von Henris Austauschzeit in Südafrika findet sich HIER.