My Review of Rhodes University
As a final-year student at Rhodes University in Grahamstown (Makhanda), I can confidently say that my experience here has been transformative—both academically and personally.
Rhodes is a small university, but that’s part of what makes it special. The class sizes are smaller compared to many other universities, which means more personal attention from lecturers and a stronger sense of academic support. Studying Psychology, Philosophy, isiXhosa (my mother tongue), and Art History and Visual Culture has given me a well-rounded education that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and cultural awareness.
One of the highlights of Rhodes is its strong academic reputation, especially in the Humanities. The lecturers are passionate about their subjects and approachable outside of class. There’s a real focus on developing independent thought, which has helped me grow intellectually and as a person.
Living and studying in Grahamstown has its own charm. It’s a quiet, student-centered town that allows you to focus, but also has a close-knit community feel. While resources can sometimes be limited, especially compared to larger cities, there’s a strong sense of resilience and community support among students and staff.
Rhodes has also challenged me in unexpected ways—whether it’s adapting to university-level academic demands or managing the social and emotional aspects of student life. But through all of it, I’ve come out stronger, more thoughtful, and better prepared for the future.
Overall, I would recommend Rhodes to anyone who values quality education, a supportive learning environment, and the chance to grow as a whole person.