Thought provoking & eye opening~ Past Review

By (n/a) - abroad from 11/01/2013 to 12/01/2013 with

Child Family Health International (CFHI): Nutrition, Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I was able to build upon my previous international health experiences and see the world in a different light. It surprised me how much insight I gained into the dynamics of the world. I always walk away intrigued and moved about coming to know a new culture.

Review Photos

Child Family Health International (CFHI): Nutrition, Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture Photo Child Family Health International (CFHI): Nutrition, Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture Photo Child Family Health International (CFHI): Nutrition, Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture Photo Child Family Health International (CFHI): Nutrition, Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture Photo Child Family Health International (CFHI): Nutrition, Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture Photo

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

You will be at the heart of so many of the things learned about global health from afar. It is a very direct learning experience.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

CFHI's International Partner's in Uganda were incredibly welcoming, accommodating, and excited about sharing their story.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The apartment that I stayed in was safe, clean, comfortable, and in a convenient location. However, it's a learning experience in itself to adapt to living conditions in Uganda and a true test of your patience!

* Food:

Since 80% of the Ugandan population is comprised of farmers, this is the healthiest I have ever eaten in my life. Finding true organic food was not the daily challenge it is here in the States. It was an absolute privilege, health wise and gastronomically, eating in Uganda.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Integrating yourself into southwestern Ugandan culture and finding a place amongst the people takes time and effort.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Local healthcare organization, KIHEFO, is doing a phenomenal job carrying out community oriented work in a challenging setting-culturally, socially, economically, and politically-with very limited resources.

* Safety:

CFHI provides a great support system throughout the duration of the program, but it's important to be a smart traveler and remain aware of your surroundings.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* 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)

American dollars go a long way in Uganda!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Other
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?
  • Learning about agriculture and "digging" along with the local people.
* What could be improved?
  • More time allotted for visiting the Rwandan Genocide Memorial.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Less slippery shoes during the raining season!