University of Wisconsin–Madison

Uganda: Arianna Osley

Program: UW Agriculture, Health & Nutrition in Uganda, Winter Intersession

Arianna’s Major: Microbiology

Arianna and a classmate sitting in a boat. Across the water is a tree-lined riverbank.
This is my classmate (left) and me (right) sitting on a bench in the middle of the source of the Nile River.

What is your most memorable experience from your program?

The most memorable experience from my program was going to Murchison Falls, specifically on the game drive, where we saw many animals, including lions, giraffes, hippos, elephants, etc. It was mesmerizing to see Africa’s natural beauty and I felt more connected to nature. Our amazing tour guide guided us so well that we watched lions hunt with their cubs. We saw a lion jump on top of a savannah buffalo, very neat to see!

What challenges or barriers did you face as you prepared to go abroad and/or during your time abroad? How did you work through them?

I faced many challenges as I prepared and during my abroad experience. When preparing, I was very nervous about going to Uganda and being so far from my family. Luckily, I have a huge support system that encouraged and reassured me that everything will be okay. I also reminded myself how unique this opportunity is and I would regret not going. I also struggled with knowing what to pack, but thanks to my program, they had previous students come into class and told us all about what they packed and gave lots of great advice. Along with previous students providing insight, I researched what is appropriate to wear and familiarized myself with Uganda’s fashion, which lowered my stress level. During my time abroad, right in the beginning, I was ill. My professors were a huge support along with the other students, ensuring me that I would be okay, I eventually saw a doctor and slowly but surely became better. I coped by being as calm as possible; there is not much that you can do when you are sick, but I had many people who were able to help me and I helped myself by drinking water and getting fresh air, which shows improvement.

What is a custom, food or tradition from your host country that you are taking forward?

One food I am taking forward from Uganda is chapati. It is similar to naan bread, but in my opinion, better! Dr. Ntambi’s wife, Solomy, made lots of chapati for us, and everyone loved it!