DSP Jahrbuch 2017/ DSP Yearbook 2017

Schüleraustausch Pretoria – Köln
Scholar Exchange Program
A gateway to international relations continued to cascade before
our eyes on 16 June 2017. As we, the 12 bright eyed and excited
students from the Deutsche Internationale Schule Pretoria, accompanied
by very warmhearted teachers, met up with our equally
excitable 12 exchange partners from the Leonardo da Vinci Gymnasium
in Köln. It was made certain to the crowd on site that this
was indeed an experience of much enthusiasm and little did we
know of the escapade ahead.
Our journey began shortly after we arrived. Once all the greetings
and unpacking of our rather heavy suitcases had reached end, we
were off. We were extremely privileged to have been able to visit
so many famous landmarks, museums, universities and parks that
all contributed to our beneficial learning, and in turn leisurely
and luxurious, experience. We were taught so much and in a way
so different from that of a classroom. Being able to interact and
have trained professionals in their respective fields sharing their
knowledge with us really intrigued us while igniting the fire in our
souls. Whatever the subject may have been we were inspired to
learn more, all the while having a lot of fun.
It was a great chance to practice our amateur German and best
of all it was phenomenal to have been able to escape from the cold
and instead enjoy the sizzling German sun.
The relationships formed in October had only been strengthened
and sustained through our international get together. We had
made many new friends, seen many old ones, all with whom great
memories were shared that will stay with us for the rest of our days.
On behalf of the students on the program we would like to take
this opportunity to thank our very benevolent educators, Mrs B
and Mrs G, for all the hard work, commitment and patience, prior
to, whilst planning and during the program. It was a truly incredible
and unforgettable experience. We are all eagerly anticipating the
day we might re-unite and we are of the certitude that it will not be
any less of an adventure.
We encourage all other learners to grab this opportunity if given
to you. Not only do you grow as an individual, but you also learn
to view life from different perspectives. You are handed the key to
international relations and in turn lifelong success; all you have to
do is open the door.
Kiyura Ponnen and Kimberley Taku, 10d
Danke an unseren Sponsor!
92 DSP Jahrbuch 2017 – Sekundarstufe