Unforgettable and Incredible Experience: Expect the Unexpected and Jaama Rek Past Review
By Monica C (PSYCHOLOGY., St. Mary's College of Maryland) - abroad from 01/15/2014 to 05/15/2014 with
St. Mary's College of Maryland: Kanifing - PEACE in The Gambia
What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about Gambian culture. My experience was definitely worthwhile! The Gambia is filled with such a rich culture that the world should see! The people are wonderful and make you feel so welcome. I would do anything to go back, honestly.
Review Photos
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
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| * Food: |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Never felt unsafe there, but of course, have your street smarts. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | $20 |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
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How much did the program encourage you to use the language?
0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language |
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| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | None |
| How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? | Intermediate |
| How many hours per day did you use the language? | |
| Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? | Using the Wolof language on a day to day basis is not required, but it definitely helps you connect to Gambians a lot more. They speak English as well as their own local languages. Using the local languages will definitely help. Also, get out there and meet new people and use the language. You'd be surprised at the amount of friends you can make! |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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| About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? |
A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | This program is not a typical study abroad program. I did not expect to make such wonderful relationships with people that will last a lifetime. This program is truly unique, and the more you put yourself out there, the more you'll enjoy your experience. Be open to the culture and new ideas!! |
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