Hello everyone. My name is Heidi Elnathan and I am a fourth year student here at Penn State. I major in Psychology (neuroscience option) and International Studies with a focus on the continent of Africa. I am currently enrolled in the CIEE Cape Town: Arts and Science program.  It’s a little over a month before I leave for Cape Town and I am experiencing so many emotions about my trip abroad yet if they asked me to leave tomorrow I would be the first one at the airport. So before I get ahead of myself this is me.

I’m really laid back and I am not vary outgoing or adventurous so I want to use this time abroad to explore new avenues. I want to step out of my comfort zone. I want to learn all I can about the South African culture. I would like to work for the peace corp. and I want to use this time to learn about adapting to other cultures and lifestyles. I was born in Liberia, West Africa and I moved to the United States when I was 8 years old.  I am now 21 years old and this would be my first time going back to the continent of Africa.  I am so excited to be able to share this amazing experience with you all. Until then . . . Have a wonderful break!

Location: State College, Pennsylvania