“We have had the chance to interact with people from all over the world and we have had time to grow, develop, and mature while here,” Toffie Ramosukwana says of her experience as one of Trent University’s first exchange students from Botswana.

Ms. Ramosukwana arrived at Trent in September along with fellow University of Botswana student, Malebogo Seatlholeng. Over the course of the last three months, while completing courses at Trent, the two women have not only had the opportunity to learn about Canadian culture, but they have also been able to share their culture with others.

The third-year Business students were both thrilled to be selected to participate in this first-time exchange program between Trent and the University of Botswana, which was initiated by Professor Tim Stapleton, chair of the Trent’s History Department, with the guidance and support of the Trent International Program, during a visit to the University of Botswana with a handful of other Canadian delegates on a WUSC mission in May 2007.

Although Ms. Ramosukwana and Ms. Seatlholeng were mere acquaintances before this trip, their shared experiences have made them good friends. And they both agree that the Trent campus is a truly remarkable place. “The environment is so welcoming here,” says Ms. Seatlholeng. “And the campus is beautiful, especially the river.”

Despite the welcoming environment, the two exchange students admit to being a little home sick from time to time. For a week in November, however, the University of Botswana came to them as Professor Neil Parsons arrived at Trent. During his visit, Professor Parsons gave two guest lectures, both about the history and influence of film in the region of Botswana and Southern Africa. When asked about the importance of exchange programs and international travel for students he explains that it helps produce more mature students.

“History plays an important cultural role. I find that many international students will study history while on an exchange, regardless of their usual course of study,” he said.

Ms. Ramosukwana and Ms. Seatlholeng complete their exchange at Trent at the end of this term and will be returning to Botswana just after Christmas. For Ms. Seatlholeng, the return home will be a bit “bitter sweet” as she explains that there is “so much more to do in Canada.”

Posted on Friday, December 5, 2008.