Re-learning development from an overlooked perspective Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

This program is especially rigorous for those who have nor previously completed independent research, but it is also a great stepping stone for students interested in research. It showed me how hands on the research process can be.

On-site administration of your program

You are in the best hands ever. The staff is super responsive, supportive, and truly acts like a second family.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was a 15 minute walk from class, a 2 minute walk from another student, and had easy access to transportation. Home was always a safe space for me. My host family patiently navigated my poor French skills, and gave me my personal space when I needed it. The only downside was how small my bedroom was, but I quickly learned to appreciate the coziness, and my family had a designated study area for me on our balcony.

Not only did I eat plenty of delicious food, the lunch stipend was plenty. Program staff also supplied us with lunch once a week so that we didn't have to venture out for food.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

When you live in a busy city it is difficult to ever feel truly integrated with the culture. However, I definitely felt integrated with my host family and the community I worked and studied within.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Once again, staff is amazing. I had to call the student coordinator at 1am, and she came right to my house with medicine, and spent the night at the hospital with me. Also, a staff member who had spent a lot of time in the US brought me saltines and sprite for my stomach because she knew thats what a lot of Americans liked. Before departure I did have to get the Yellow Fever vaccine, which is not easily accessible, so make sure you ask your doctor where the closest location is to receive that vaccine. Healthcare was easily accessible to a certain point. Cameroon is a developing country, so their hospitals are not at par with US standards. Despite the differences, I did receive medical treatment and I did recover each time.

The program staff prepares you very well for safety expectations. After orientation I felt like I understood how to navigate the city in a safe manner. Safety risks are higher in Cameroon than in other countries I have travelled too, but as long as you are constantly aware of your surroundings, and vigilant about mitigating safety risks you will have an enjoyable experience.

Not only did I learn more than I ever could have imagined, my perspectives on development and international relations were completely flipped. I was not expecting to question the underlying values of my education as much as I did.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

I expected to spend money on food and transportation, but SIT covered almost all expenses, including our food during our week in Paris. I only spent my own money when we did our week in Paris and when I bought souvenirs for my family back home.

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

We were strongly encouraged during the first 6 weeks of the program to intensively study the language. Also, throughout the entire program there were multiple class activities that required us to speak French both in class and outside of class.

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• Host Family

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• Host Family

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• Local Students
• Americans

• Excursions
• Classes
• People

• Research class
• More ice cream