Senegal: Didn't know what I was getting myself into but was more than I could've asked for Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Good good good. It was a very American structured school, since it was just for American students. We were encouraged to use the UCAD library and I made friends that went there. I think it could've been a very interesting experience to actually enroll and study at UCAD rather than just with other Americans.

On-site administration of your program

WONDERFUL FACULTY! Bouna, Souleye Diallo, Sarah, Papis, Amy, Amadou, all of the profs at my school, they were fabulous. They were there if we needed them but were not overbearing and let us figure out things on our own and be the adults that we were. I would give this one 10 globes if I could! Great sense of humor (typical to Senegalese) Very experienced and helpful. Supportive. There for us!

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

First family was a bit of a difficult situation. As soon as little things became problems, my school knew about them and I was taken out from this situation and placed in a new family and home, with open arms. Both were good locations. First family I think has been hosting for too long. Second family was more than I could ever ask for. Our house was small, but definitely comfortable and loving. Enjoyed the neighborhood and needing to take a bus or taxi. Enjoyed getting away from Americans as much as possible. The best times were when I would spend a whole weekend and then some without seeing other Americans. (also helped my language skills!) My family treated me well, sort of like a guest, but also like a family member. Its in their culture and due to my white skin that I was often treated like a guest, but in some ways they also tried to incorporate me into the family. Its just how it works!

Good. If you are a vegetarian or don't like fish, Senegalese food is not for you. Water was more of an issue since it was necessary to buy bottled water. Recommend buying a 10 qt bottle which makes it cheaper and more convenient.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Best study aboard experience for me ever. Classes were language and other cultural lessons, along with field studies, which enriched and helped us make the most out of our experience. My Senegalese friends took me to see things, included me in their lives. Took me to baptemes, soccer games, wrestling, hung out on the streets, drank tea, etc. My program facilitated field trips to Goree Island and two village stays (which should probably be two whole other evals) petite cote, and others. One very memorable day I went with a neighborhood friend to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Senegals independence. We saw a big military parade, including the president. Later that day we also went to the big La lutte - wrestling at the national stadium which was the experience of a lifetime! I also visited the new statue with friends which was only like a five minute walk from my home. Me and two americans took a weekend down to a hotel on the coast which was a great adventure and a lot of fun and met some cool people. My family took me to baptemes and wedding parties. Introduced me to other family friends. Helped me get clothes fitted. Soccer matches in my neighborhood. I met a famous singer through one of my friends!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I felt safe all the time, even when walking by myself on occasion at 2 am. Often my Senegalese friends would accompany me, even when I told them it wasn't necessary. Was pickpocketed twice - losing my camera and my Senegalese cell phone. I'm sure I was targeted because I was white and blonde hair and obviously stuck out, but really this could have happened in any city when I was careless enough to leave my phone in my back pocket of a big crowd or wear my back pack on my back while getting off a bus. Healthcare- us as students were well informed by our program of the resources available to us, including a doctor who spoke English. The only health issue I had was getting ringworm and I was advised to visit a pharmacy (which are available in almost every neighborhood) for a cream. It was taken care of this way, and the cream was not very expensive. Overall, things are not very cleanly. So if you are a clean freak, don't go to Senegal. Good list of vaccines, get them. Malaria pills are a must. Yellow fever vaccine. Girls, take a good supply of tampons. Dont brush your teeth with tap water.

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

School provided the formal education - grammar, spelling, etc. while outside of classes I could practice with EVERYONE, encouraged by my Senegalese friends and family. French and Wolof were essential to get by everyday. Some people thought they spoke English, yet my limited language skills were better than their English. My French did not improve as much as I thought it would, yet my Wolof was awesome by the time I left since it is the preferred language and since I did not know a word of it before I got there. French was interesting, having learned it only at Wartburg and on a May Term in Paris, whereas the French in Senegal was much more relaxed and softer. I prefer the French in Senegal. But Wolof is so much fun and the people are so encouraging trying to teach it and are much more receptive to a white person who speaks Wolof rather than a white person speaking French.

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• Host Family

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• Host Family

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• Americans