Tanzania: Drilon Etemi
Program: UW Health, Education, & Tanzanian Culture, Winter Intersession
Drilon’s Majors: Chemistry, Religious Studies
How were your program academics similar or different from taking classes at UW-Madison?
In my program the academics largely relied on behaving respectfully and demonstrating true cultural sensitivity, especially when navigating difficult or unfamiliar situations. Similar to in-person classes at UW-Madison, we were expected to review relevant articles, practice speech presentations, and prepare for oral exams. However, my study abroad experience uniquely developed a sense of independence in me. Often, I encountered questions and challenges that were not addressed in textbooks or study materials, making it essential to approach each situation with an open mind. These were key aspects of my academic and personal growth during my program.
Embrace the experience and grow through the challenges and hardships!
What is your most memorable experience from your program?
On the last day of the program, we all gathered in a circle, much like a family during the holidays. We exchanged gifts with one another, sharing our thoughts and feelings in a heartfelt display of community. The relationships and connections I have been able to build during this experience are ones I will cherish for a lifetime.
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?
It can be very difficult to adjust to the many changes students face when going abroad. Sharing a room with people I had only known for a few days, waking up early and going to bed late, and enduring the intense heat of the Tanzanian sun were all challenging aspects of the experience. To overcome these challenges, I made a conscious effort to utilize the resources provided to me by my program. I talked through difficulties with group facilitators, participated in nightly debriefs with my peers, and most importantly, I tried to remind myself that what felt unfamiliar and temporary to me was likely someone else’s typical, everyday life. Embrace the experience and grow through the challenges and hardships!