Study Abroad with UNA
Africa
One Final Note
Traveling is not easy. Snaffoos and snags such as airlines losing luggage, missed flights, and severe jet lag are all very real downsides of traveling (and we experienced them all). However, the desire and determination to overcome these temporary ailments gets you through and delivers you safely home to relay endless stories and gift wonderful souvenirs– equipped with an incredible and unrivaled experience. I could compose a generic and uninteresting post about the conclusion of our UNA Tanzania study abroad and make an obvious connection to the end of our African adventure to a sunset picture of Zanzibar. BUT, that … // Read more
Tan (Zan) ia
For the last three days, our group has transitioned from the urban setting of Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar– the island counterpart of mainland Tanzania. In the 1960s when then Tanganyika gained independence from the U.K., the island of Zanzibar began experiencing some internal fighting and eventually joined with Tanganyika to become Tanzania (luckily for us, since no comprehension study of the country of Tanzania would be complete without a stop at its island counterpart, we are enjoying the spoils of this island in the Indian Ocean). Zanzibar has a fascinating history as we have discovered through 2 detailed guided tours. … // Read more
Teaching Old Dogs New Tricks
You quickly realize that studying abroad is so much more than simply a vacation for school credit. I’ll be the first person to agree that any opportunity to travel is lucrative and exciting, but to study abroad means that you are constantly challenged intellectually and noting observations without hesitation throughout your travels; the purpose of studying abroad is not to relax but to insert yourself into an unfamiliar environment and observe. I have participated in three of these programs, and each one has had a defining moment. I think that today’s experiences will culminate in one of those enduring memories … // Read more
The Legend of Hambati
He stands at little over 5 feet tall, but his smile and laughter make him the tallest man in any room. At 44 years old, he has the perfect combination of youthful exuberance and overflowing fountain of knowledge. He captivates a room with stories so masterfully communicated and knee-slapping hilarious. He yells to hippopotamuses and lions on safaris saying, “HEY MAHNNN! WAKE UP! We pay too much money to watch you sleep, hippo!” or “HEY SIMBA! Roll ova, mahn! You are lazy, lion!” He jumps in to sing and dance with Masai (nomadic, cattle herding group in Kenya and Tanzania) … // Read more
The best part…
Today was the best part of the trip. I got to teach a freshman Geography class at Ng’Iresi Secondary school! Everyone else got to speak to a freshman class as well. I think everyone really enjoyed it and the African students were great. We shopped around town and learned about tanzanite, a gemstone only found in Tanzania.
Found Leo!
A lot has happened since the last post. We shopped at the Maasai market in Arusha and saw the tourist economy there – not my favorite part. Then we went on a safari in Ngorongoro crater. Kudos to our drivers – nothing like African back roads. We saw 4 of the ‘big 5’ – no leopard this time. The lions were very entertaining – sleep was their number one concern. National Geographic has nothing on this one. We also hike up to Engare Sare river gorge and waterfall. It was amazing. Apparently, Dr. Koti finds pirates wherever he goes – … // Read more
Arusha
Traveled to Arusha by bus today – about a 12 hour ride. Although, the long drive was worth the amazing hotel we get to stay in. (Thanks Dr. Koti and Dr. G.) The driver has done a great job so far, the traffic is still interesting. I have found the best way to survive is just simply, not to look. We got to see a lot of the African country side and there is a major difference between here and Dar. I am gaining a deeper understanding and respect for the African people. This really makes you appreciate home a … // Read more
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