"What's it Like?"

Over all, students can expect to have a great time in Kenya. However, it is important to note that it is difficult to give a comprehensive description of the lifestyle led by a student in the KSAP, or any other study-abroad program for that matter - this is one of the reasons that first-hand experiences are so valuable. They are personal on one level and to be shared on another. Indeed, experiences will differ from person to person. The thought of Africa for many people signals the ultimate holiday abroad: I dream of Africa. KSAP is neither a vacation, nor an extended fieldtrip, but a safari (Kiswahili) in the true meaning of the word ­ it is a journey of learning experiences. The program's primary focus is for you to engage in independent research and have an in-depth involvement in day-to-day interaction with Kenyans, either at Moi University - our host institution, or during your home stay. While only about a month in length, the program involves daily interactions with an environment and cultures that differ from yours in numerous ways, and for which, you cannot fully prepare or understand. If you have not yet been to Europe, it will provide your first culture shock. Adjustment and adaptation requires the ability to open one's mind andrefrain from passing judgment about others based on preconceived notions of what is "normal," "correct," or "should be." It is different. Simply being so far from home (it's an Earth we all share), constitutes one of the toughest parts of the journey for some people. However, keep in mind that a month is a relatively short amount of time and that your friends and family will still be there when you return. Additionally, while excessive preoccupation with thoughts of home can impede one from taking full advantage of the trip, occasional communication with loved ones is feasible and may curtail feelings of being homesick versus other days when you might be "sick of home". This takes us to the first section: Forms of Communication