"Kenya: A Dream Come True" Past Review

By (Environmental Science., Western Washington University) for

The School for Field Studies / SFS: Tanzania - Wildlife Management Studies

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I was so impressed by the staff at SFS. I learned to stop worrying about the small stuff and that putting yourself out there is so worth it.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

There were some differences between what SFS professors and my college professors were used to, but they were passionate about the subject matter and very well-educated on the course material. Grading was fair, and lectures were informative and fun.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The "SAM" (student affairs manager) was the go-to person for anything we had questions on and she was fabulous.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We lived in bandas. Everything we needed we had purchased already or was provided for us.

* Food:

The food was amazing.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Trips to Amboseli National Park and Tsavo West National Park, visit to an orphanage, visit to AIDS testing/counseling center, and many hiking opportunities.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I've never felt more safe; there was a doctor nearby if needed, but the staff worked so hard to make sure we all felt comfortable there.

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)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Staff
  • Leisure time, soaking it all in
  • Visits to National Parks
* What could be improved?
  • Not much!
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? The type of student that would benefit most from this program is one who is excited by the idea of being out of his/her comfort zone. It is very different from home, but makes it that much more rewarding. Don't hold back, push yourself to try new things.