I haven’t had much time to send updates about the status of my big move abroad, but I’m back!
About two weeks ago, I heard that I will be moving to Wamunyu, Kenya which is about 2 hours east of the capital, Nairobi. I have never lived in a rural part of Africa which has its own differences from more urban Africa, but nonetheless I am thrilled. I also learned I will be working with an organization called Kenya Connect that works with primary and secondary schools in rural Machakos county to improve educational resources. From installing water sanitation stations to providing teacher training Kenya Connect works to improve the educational outcome for Kenya’s rural populations.
My official departure date is January 10th and from there myself and the two other English Teaching Assistants (ETAs), will have an in-country orientation and explore the cultural sites of Kenya’s infamous Swahili coast. I am most excited to see the northern Swahili coast, given that I’ve seen Tanzania’s coast and its history. Kenya’s Swahili coast is known for cities like Malindi and Mombasa which have a rich trade history similar to Tanzania’s Dar es Salaam, Bagamoyo, and Zanzibar.
The next 81 days are centered on spending time with family and friends and also reviewing concepts for the dreaded GRE given my entrance into graduate school in the summer of 2017. While, this may seem ambitious, I work best with multiple responsibilities and am excited to be back in school.
My blog will be reconstructed and focused on the various elements involved with moving abroad and also include tips for packing, keeping journals, photoediting apps, and the like. I’m excited for this new journey and to take you all with me!
Stay tuned for these new pieces in the next few weeks:
- Kenya Bucket List October 27th
- Chicago and US Bucket List: November 10th
- Cultural Competence: Here and Abroad : November 17th
In Peace,
Mariah
mariahgoesabroad 