Venturing far from the familiar landscapes of British Columbia, last summer the UBC Forestry students of CONS 454 found themselves amidst the breathtaking biodiversity of South Africa for their field school experience. Surrounded by rugged terrain and diverse ecosystems, their education took on a new dimension. Explore UBC Forestry’s newest field school in South Africa through the eyes of our undergraduates in excerpts from their personal reflections. From encounters with iconic wildlife to grappling with the complexities of conservation efforts, their stories offer a glimpse into the transformative power of immersive learning in one of the world’s most ecologically rich regions.