John Sibandze

UWC attended: Waterford Kamhlaba United World College of Southern Africa (Swaziland)
Class Year: Class of 2015
I was born and raised in Swaziland, a small landlocked country in southern Africa. I can say that I did enjoy my childhood years although I was not raised by my parents, but my uncle. I got my primary and secondary education at a local school. I was fortunate enough to get a scholarship to study at a United World College. This, I think, was a turning point in my life as it was my first time to study alongside international students.
 
It was through attending the UWC that I got to learn and appreciate different cultures. The only culture that I was used to was mine and I knew little or nothing at all about other cultures. Attending a UWC also enlightened me on the importance of trying out new challenges. I have realized that taking new risks and challenges makes one grow in character and personality. Attending a UWC has also helped me to be an independent person. I believe that nothing is impossible in life through determination and hard work. As the goals of Lewis & Clark College seem to be almost similar to those of UWC, I am hoping to further my UWC experience in this college.
One of the things that will be unforgettable in my life is the long lasting friendships that I made at the UWC. I think four years is more than enough for one to make as many friends as possible at Lewis & Clark College. These friendships are, of course, different from those that I made before as they are international friendships. This is one of the things making me call myself a global citizen rather than a citizen of the small Kingdom of Swaziland. I believe that the main challenge that this world is faced with is unifying the world, and it involves the appreciation of the different cultures.
 
I am looking forward to a good four years at Lewis & Clark College.