Location

Narok, Nairobi, Kenya

Program Description

This summer study abroad program is designed for those exploring all levels of education as well as those seeking immersive cross-cultural experiences. We will be located primarily at Nasaruni Academy, a campus of 250 Maasai girls where we will be staying in the Madison Camp-Kenya (safari-type tent accommodations) adjacent to the school. There you will build relationships as you engage with the teachers and students both casually in a game of soccer or making bracelets, as well as more formally assisting in the classroom. You will have opportunities to experience the welcoming culture and traditions of the Maasai, as a learner and guest rather than a tourist. Together we will embrace our shared similarities and celebrate our unique stories together.

During our unforgettable visit, we will explore the many communities of Kenya—from cosmopolitan Nairobi to rural Narok, along with an overnight safari at Maasai Mara game reserve. Students wishing to pursue other interests such as health sciences, social justice, social entrepreneurship, NGOs, finance, art/art education, occupational therapy, engineering, conservation, drama, or environmental issues are welcome to apply and talk with the director about special projects.

This experience will include predeparture meetings focused on getting to know one another and self-reflection of one’s own worldview. Some early meetings will be informal and helpful to orient you about the experience. In the month prior to leaving, we will then have about four formal classes (online in the evening hours) where you will have some background reading requirements. Focus during these sessions will be on training in cross-cultural communication and awareness. We will also prepare for our contributions with teaching and assessing literacy in the school setting. More cultural preparation will help you give and get the most from the experience. These classes and meetings are MANDATORY. Most of the academic work will occur prior to going abroad so that there you can focus on the experience fully. However, upon arrival in Nairobi and in Narok, we will have orientations to help you adjust and prepare further for the experience. We plan to visit cultural sites in Nairobi as well as a wildlife conservation organization. Once onsite at Madison Camp-Kenya, we will have nightly debriefing and reflection sessions.

Location Description

Kenya is a land of contrasts, from cosmopolitan Nairobi to rural villages. While Nairobi is green and lush, the land further south becomes semi-arid and drier. Driving to Narok from Nairobi, you will witness the changing landscapes and livelihoods. The many indigenous people groups in Kenya give it a unique expression and experience of diversity which expands our own thinking. Kenya is actively pursuing a unified Kenyan culture while respecting the diversity of its peoples and heritage. All of these movements and challenges are complex and promote deep thought and inquiry. We will take opportunity to hear our hosts’ perspectives and others to gain deeper insight and greater global awareness.

Geographically, Kenya has unique qualities we will explore such as the Great Rift Valley which is visible from outer space. The weather in Kenya is very pleasant, and cools down well in the evenings and mornings. The May/June visit is likely to have some rain (which keeps down the dust) and coolness.

Director

Michelle Cude | cudemd@jmu.edu | MSME

Accommodations

Accommodations will be largely at Madison Camp-Kenya where you will stay in a large tent with possibly 4 - 6 other students. You will have a mattress on a twin bedframe, some personal space for your belongings, and share a rustic outdoor shower/bathroom facility nearby. Conditions will be basic, not plush. This is not a vacation with deluxe accommodations, but rather a rich learning and service opportunity which will impact your heart and mind for good. Internet is variable and highly limited. For Americans, this may resemble camping experiences. The outdoor connection to the environment is all a part of the experience. You will live in community, eat in community, and also have some times for solitude and reflection, as well as work and play with the students and school staff.

Most all meals are included in the program fee. They will vary from new dishes similar to local cuisine, and hearty meals you are more used to. The Maasai enjoy meat, but other diets can be accommodated with advance notice. We tend to have plenty of vegetable dishes and some exotic fruits for dessert. You will have a few excursions for shopping. You will have opportunities to buy extra snacks and food you are likely familiar with at larger shops nearby. Almost anything you need is available in Narok. We have plenty of clean, bottled water available. Masala chai is not to be missed!

Additional Items to Consider

You are encouraged to leave your cell phone behind, unless used as a camera. In order for you and others to engage fully in the cross-cultural experience, we limit the time for phone use to one hour in the evening. Internet is also highly variable and limited.

You will need to purchase an online visa which costs around $50. We will walk through that process together as a group. Plan to bring your best self, ready for adventure and whatever that might bring our way. Flexibility is key, especially as we all live together in community for two weeks.

Immunizations are required. We follow the current CDC guidelines. We will talk more about this in pre-departure meetings. Students must visit the Department of State link for travelers to Kenya.

Course work required pre-program. 

Plan to bring your best self, ready for adventure and whatever that might bring our way. Flexibility is key, especially as we all live together in community for two weeks.

Applicant Criteria

Applicants must have a GPA minimum of 2.0

Open to Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors, and Graduate Students.

Open to all majors

Open to non-JMU students

Adventurous spirit, flexibility, good-natured, social justice-oriented, open to build relationships with people of varied ages and backgrounds, ready to marvel at the amazing gifts of Africa.