Quite the experience in Tanzania Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I learned a lot in a short time. We had a lot of hands on experience which was a refreshing break from the lectures and late nights spent doing homework. I did get to experience a very different culture as well. There was little free time to relaz and explore on our own, and at times I felt very isolated.

On-site administration of your program

The academic director was very passionate and engaged. He was definitely there for us whenever we needed him. He also knew a lot about just about everything. He did enjoy his own talking a bit too much at times.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The homestay was great and the guest houses we stayed in were very comfortable.

The food was great but I did miss vegetables after a while. The fruit was incredible though.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The program did a great job of integrating us in the local culture, but in the end it was my own fault that I didn't put myself out there more.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Health was accessible, it simply is not up to American standards. They did not have the resources to give tests, so they just gave antibiotics as a solution to everything. The clinics were limited. They did the best they could, but I felt scared and unsure. I could have sought out the help of the people in the program, but in the end, they weren't trained professionals and did not know how to help more than providing support. There were a lot of vaccines required that were expensive. The anti-malarials in particular were a nightmare to get a hold of and very expensive. I had a lot of trouble with my insurance.

The only danger are cars that might hit you in the narrow alleys, but as long as you pay attention it shouldn't be an issue. It is important to stay in groups at night, and be especially aware in Dar es Salaam.

I am happy with my decision to do this program

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

Once in Tanzania, almost all my expenses were covered by my initial tuition payment. We were given weekly stipends for food and our living situations were paid for. The only extra expenses I had were for medical bills and gifts I bought to bring home, but both were reasonable and cheaper than in America. It was the flights and the medical expenses that were difficult to afford.

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

There were plenty of opportunities to speak the language both on our own with our host families and in class.

Select all that apply

• Host Family
• Hotel

Select all that apply

• Americans
• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Americans

• experience-based
• variety of experiences
• the host families

• more free time
• more Kiswahili formal instruction
• more decompression time at the end of the program

The Avid Adventurer