Senegal study abroad first, Peace Corps next Past Review
By Abbey H (Political Science and Government., Wellesley College) for
CIEE: Dakar - Language & Culture
I loved study abroad. It was definitely the best part of my college experience so far, and it has caused me to rethink my future plans. Instead of applying to grad school right away, I am applying to the Peace Corps.
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? |
I lived in Sacre Coeur III, Dakar with the Wade family. My neighborhood and host family were fantastic. My parents and siblings were kind and helpful, and I had a lot of fun. <br /><br /> |
| * Food: |
I love Senegalese food, but it is really hard if you're a vegetarian. I was a vegetarian before I got to Senegal, and ended up eating meat while I was there. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Travel within Senegal and the Gambia is a little difficult due to transportation but absolutely worth it. I loved my rural visit, living in a village for a week in southern Senegal. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
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| 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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| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | I wish I had brought more money for travel. |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Intermediate |
| What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? | French 210 |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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| Language acquisition improvement? |
I was able to practice both French and Wolof with my host family, instructors, and people I met in Dakar. |
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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