Hello all, the Marist spring 2009 contingent has met several times this semester in preparation for their visit to South Africa in May. The class consist of 16 students, 1 Teaching Assistant, and 1 Professor. The students and several guest lecturers have discussed a variety of issues related to South Africa's culture, history, politics, and policies. Topics covered this semester vary from AIDS/HIV, gender, housing, economic change, neo-liberal policies, education, economic recovery, xenophobia, and immigration. The students are excited, engaged, and expecting an enriching experience while in South Africa.